Following a recent inquest into the death of a farmer crushed when his cow broke through a holding pen, Teagasc Health and Safety Specialist Dr John McNamara says it is “crucial” that farmers check handling facilities for wear and tear and update them if needed.
Early detection of signs of wear and tear could save lives. For example, “corrosion can be prevalent where pillars and steel go into”. Corrosion in mountings is not immediately apparent.
McNamara added: “Gates should be properly hung and everything should be mounted and secured correctly and constructed properly.”
Meanwhile, Veterinary Ireland Food Animal Chair Tadhg Gavin said they often see problems on out-farms. “Things like crushes are often not properly maintained and things get loose and worn. They need to be checked and kept up to date. Some crushes make it difficult to examine an animal properly or give it the treatment it needs and this impacts a vet’s job and causes a safety issue. Some of the newer crushes require the farmer or the vet to get in beside the animal, which isn’t safe. Farmers constructing new handling facilities should be mindful of making it easy to get out and away from the animal if needed.”