The Correct Handling Equipment

Having access to good handling infrastructure/facilities goes a long way to creating a safe environment in which to handle animals. Points to bear in mind when designing and constructing handling facilities are:

• Use strong and durable materials that can withstand heavy and sudden weight, are easy to clean and do not readily splinter.
• Ensure that floor surfaces are suitably rough to prevent slipping of animals and humans.
• Construct handling facilities undercover or in a shady and wind-protected area so that workers do not tire too quickly, and animals do not get agitated in extreme weather conditions.
• Fences and gates need to be in a good state.
• Electric fences need to give a good strong signal to be effective - check the volt reading regularly. Avoid chasing animals towards an electric fence. They will ignore the fence and break it.
• Different species need different sizes and shapes of infrastructure.
• All movable parts of the handling facility need to be free moving (grease or oil joints and hinges from time to time)
• All stables, boxes, crates etc. that are to be used to contain animals, need to be thoroughly checked before they are used. Special attention should be given to sharp objects and loose wires in the handling areas.

Click here to view a video that explains animal handling.

Click here to view a video that explains safety in animal handling.