ANSI Unit 1 PDF

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": 2".. ,.".;':'..' " ',.-.".;:.::,7 '... :. :?i.:." ¯.., "i".,, " : ,.. " ;....; ,;,:..,.>=,.?i.b ?.:i;,:! j:,:::.. - : ib ;. " " : i :'! : ; '!" '- !" " %"" / : '::'.o. ¯ ¯ ".. , "J.". :i: '.:." ? ? :¢,..t ,,. :t , '..' ". :'. ".'%'7,- ':'.!':,.', ?¢ "/. " "........z.,'4....".....A" ; ¯ :. :: '..' " , Objectives ¯.. " ':.: -..:...-;..;........ v :, , Z i', : ¯ '...., :". :,:.-. j....., Discuss general safety issues related to animal science. Identify safety factors when working with livestock...... -. " o. H.".. : !i ii!}il). :i!. , :,. :,."!., ":"! "- i..i ,i..- :: " ' ' ",-:7...... o. -, :i ". : ": ,. "..... ¯. ¯.... :.. ;,:...j.,,.. : r,-.....'..... ¯ 2.....-......?:,. - Identify safety precautions related to equipment.,.:..,.. ¯....' :- ¯ ;,a " ::. ?. r :.;,.., :,:: ,-.. t,.. H, :. :'..R.'.,',..... " ! -.- 4.. "H' *, "": :. ,'db" *.'...... " ¯ " "...:'r -..! L ,& '.':"" H"'".:;?',. °4. ; '....".'. 'i" h.?-" ",S- "' '" and facilities... :7." --, 7V,* ,.., v ¯. '... " ,.. ' : ,. :". :%.. ¯ ".. - '.. -. { ' , --..,.. ,, ) ,......- -4 Explain the importance of animal behavior when I x:-.... :,..' ',.0] v. '".." :;: ?-.. :.-'.. _... ;* i. ': ";Z- L,.. " ¯ working with livestock.. Describe the hazards associated with animal diseases. Discuss current trends and events in animal safety. Key Terms accident reflexive conditioning safety escape-gate temperament ethology zoonoses flight-zone hazard learned behaviors maternal melanoma paternal  Livestock Safety should continually be a major concern for producers and ranchers. Safety is the condition of being protected from danger, risk or injury. Agriculture is consistently one of the most hazardous industries in the United States with farmers and ranchers having a greater risk of both fatal and nonfatal injuries. In one year, farming and ranching accidents claim over 730 lives and seriously injure another 150,000. An accident can be defined as an unforeseen and unplanned event or circumstance. Every day, 500 Thinkstock Images individuals involved in agriculture experience injuries, and 25 of those result in permanent impairment. All a person has to do is pick up the local paper or hear people talking around town to find evidence of the dangers associated with the agricultural industry. Animal agriculture is not exempt from these hazards. A hazard is defined as a situation that poses a level of threat to life, health, property or environment. In a five-year period, 375 people working with animals were killed and another 75,000 were seriously injured. A study at Oklahoma State University found 150 cases of cattle-handling injuries among 100 Oldahoma cow-calf operations. What was the leading cause of these accidents? The study answered that question human error. People become - very comfortable around livestock they work with daily, but working with animal agriculture can be very dangerous. ANIMAL SCIENCE A General Animal Safety Raising and handling livestock can be very rewarding, but m as mentioned earlier, it can also be very dangerous. To reduce human error, one of the most important practices a producer can do is follow basic safety guidelines. Proper animal safety and livestock equipment handling is essential, not just for the safety of the handler, but for the safety of the animal as well. It is important to handle livestock in an environment that minimizes stress to the animal. ]-here are many reasons why working with livestock can be dangerous. Many people think of the obvious safety concerns like the fact that livestock can be large and aggressive animals. Most accidents are not directly related to the animals themselves, but rather are caused by the improper use of machinery, tools and medical equipment, and issues with the facilities. ]-here is much more to consider when thinking about safety around livestock. ]-he most important issues are listed below: Thinkstock Images ¯ Being physically injured by a startled animal ¯ Injuries resulting from the misuse of equipment that is poorly maintained m ¯ Allergies associated with animal hair, dander, or secretions such as saliva or urine ¯ Diseases and microorganisms that cause illness ¯ Rabies ¯ Fungi like those that cause ringworm ¯ Chemicals, such as those used to treat parasites, as well as animal hormones m People tend to give human characteristics to the animals involved in livestock production practices. It is critical to remember that livestock are much more re[legive, which means they act without thinking. When animals are frightened, they are "hard-wired" to either remove themselves from the threat or confront it. ]-he temperament (natural behavior or predisposition) of an animal can provide the handler a lot of information about what they will do, but all animals are subject to instant and strange actions. A key to successfully working with livestock is the handler's ability to stay calm. Animals can sense nervousness and anxiety, which will in turn make them nervous and more difficult to work. UNIT 1 LIVESTOCK SAFETY  Agriculture can be dangerous that has been established. What role does the government - play in ensuring farms and ranches are safe places to work? All jobs, agriculture or not, are regulated by OSHA, which stands for Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Any employer of eleven or more employees is required to follow OSHA guidelines and submit records of work-related injuries. OSHA has developed specific guidelines for agriculture because it realizes it is an especially dangerous profession. OSHA shares on their website that: Agriculture is one of the most hazardous industries in the nation. Farming is one of the few industries in which the families (who often share the work and live on the premises) are also at risk for fatal and nonfatal injuries. Approximately 1,818,000 full-time workers were employed in production agriculture in the U.S. in 2008. Fatal injuries constitute a significant burden on the agricultural sector, as indicated by the 456 farmers and farm workers who died from a work-related injury for a fatality rate of 25.1 deaths per 100,000 workers during that same year. An estimated 1.12 million children and adolescents under 20 years of age resided on farms in 2006, with about 590,000 of these youth performing work on the farms. In addition to the youth who live on farms, an additional 307,000 children and adolescents were hired to work on U.S. farms in 2006. On average, 213 youth less than 20years of age die annually from farm-related injuries (1995-2002), with most of these deaths occurring to youth 16-19 years of age (34%). (Agricultural Safety. NIOSH Safety and Health Topic Page) OSHA continues by outlining the specific safety standards that agriculturists must follow. These standards include what safety precautions must be taken when using large equipment. For example, OSHA outlines the necessity of ROPS (Roll Over Protection Systems). Specific to animals, OSHA describes the hazards of biological pathogens and what must be done to protect individuals working with vaccines and animals. / i../ Further Research Visit the OSHA website related to agriculture and explore the specific guidelines that are explained. The website is: http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/agriculturaloperations ¯ What is your response to the standards that OSHA sets? ¯ Have you seen the standards followed in your own experience? ¯ What is the value of a set of guidelines like those provided? ¯ What do they say that applies to livestock specifically? Most accidents are a result of human error. If livestock handlers are aware and knowledgeable, most accidents can be avoided. Many times patience and awareness can go a long way when working with livestock. Statistics show that the majority of accidents occur because handlers are tired, not paying attention, making poor decisions, rushing to get a job done, stressed and attempting jobs they are not trained to complete. So, how can accidents be prevented when working with livestock? ANIMAL SCIENCE  Common Livestock Handling Injuries m Working with livestock does present unique safety risks. Many of the common accidents that occur when handling and working with livestock can easily be avoided by simply sticking to the basic livestock safety procedures. m m ¯ Mashed and broken fingers caused by gates and unexpected animal movement - ¯ Bruises and lacerations caused by kicks and being stepped on - Rope burns caused by sudden rope movement through an unprotected hand m ¯ - ¯ Eye injuries caused by dirt and dust - ¯ Puncture wounds caused by splinters, horns, tools, or other equipment - ¯ Broken arms and legs caused by falls and unexpected animal movement - ¯ Crushed internal organs caused by shifting animals forcing the human body against an - immobile surface or structure m Safety Procedures When Working with Livestock Agriculture can be a dangerous profession. Though the majority of accidents involve the use of n large equipment and electricity associated with crop production, animal agriculture also poses a number of safety risks. The key to avoiding these risks is proper planning and education. If animal agriculturists are purposeful and careful in how they operate, accidents can be avoided. Each and every job comes with procedures and guidelines that must be followed. Working with USDA-ARS Image livestock is no different. It is important that anyone working with animals be properly trained for the job he/she is completing. For example, if an individual is assisting the administration of an injection, it is important that he or she fully understands how to work the syringe and has read the warning labels plus directions provided on the medication. If someone is planning on operating the hydraulic chute system when working with large animals, the animal and handler's safety depends on proper operation of that piece of equipment. Knowledge is power, and it is important that anyone working with animals takes the time to research the proper procedures. Following the proper procedures is the best way to prevent accidents. So what are the proper procedures? UNIT 1 LIVESTOCK SAFETY Handling and Working with Animals An animal's behavior is based not only on its inheritable traits but on its environment and surroundings. It is important to maintain a handler's safety as well as the animal's safety. Owners and operators of livestock need to pay particular attention to the management and facilities related to an animal's environment. When stress is minimized, an ideal environment is created for livestock to live and grow, and they will be more likely to express their full productive potential. Thinkstock Images There are some basic procedures that are simple but important when working with animals. These principles are based on animal behaviors. Animals are unpredictable, and it is important that handlers always have an adequate exit plan. ¯ Escape-gates are a great way to plan an exit. An escape-gate is simply a gate that can be easily and quickly used to exit a dangerous area. Many times these are swing gates or spring-loaded gates installed into working chutes and pens. ¯ Avoid handling animals in small, confined areas. This is viewed as a threat by livestock. ¯ Maintain adequate lighting. Animals are more comfortable if they can see their environment. Be aware as you move animals from high to low light. ¯ Remove horns from dangerous animals. ¯ Stay in the animal's line of sight. Surprises for animals are threats. ¯ Avoid making sudden, loud noises. ¯ Allow animals to follow herd or flock leaders. This is natural and comfortable. ¯ Respect both the maternal and paternal instincts of animals. Maternal instincts are those that relate to the mother, and paternal are those that relate to the father. Mothers are protective of their offspring, and intact males can be very dominant and aggressive. ¯ Do not allow individuals who are inexperienced to have direct contact with the animals. ¯ When feeding, be aware that animals may rush or crowd the feeding area. Once again, plan an escape route. ¯ Restrain animals properly for foot trimming, surgery, or other operations. There are three main types of restraints: o Mechanical -- hydraulic chutes, turn tables, or calf tables o Physical -- using bodily force to restrain o Chemical -- controlling animals with tranquilizers ANIMAL SCIENCE  Proper Clothing Proper clothing can many times either prevent or reduce injuries when working with livestock. Proper clothing can prevent obvious threats like burns or cuts and scrapes, but it also prevents other important issues like skin cancer from exposure to the sun. Melanoma is a form of skin cancer that can be deadly. Each of these items can be very important depending on the job. Before one begins working with livestock, he or she must first decide what clothing the job requires. Choosing the proper clothing is just as important as choosing the right tool for a job. Hat with a wide brim m Safety glasses or goggles when appropriate Sunglasses when exposed to sun for long periods Thinkstock Images m Leather shoes with steel toes Boots with a heel when riding horses Coveralls Ear plugs Gloves Hard hat m Mask or respirator m Sunblock with SPF 15 or greater Observing Warning Signs R Working with animals and livestock can involve the use of dangerous equipment, chemicals, drugs, and environments. The government has created a set of colors that warn people of the potential hazards in any working environment. It is important as an employee, employer, or business owner m that one knows these colors and understands what they mean. Anyone involved with livestock will come in contact with situations where these color codes are used. m ----1 identifies areas of danger or emergency, such as fire extinguishers -- --'7-- indicates warning --]-- indicates caution m ----] conveys information regarding the status of equipment: "Out of Order" -- ----] indicates the presence of safety equipment such as an eye-wash station -- ' -- indicates radioactivity UNIT 1 LIVESTOCK SAFETY Storing of Fuels, Tools, Chemicals, and Supplies Properly Think for a second of all the items used with animals that could be dangerous. The fumes from fuel can lead to fires and toxic gases. Medicines in non-labeled bottles could be mistaken for other liquids, and dangerous tools like old syringes could lead to serious injury. When working with livestock it is important to consider a number of potential threats. ¯ Storage containers make sure all containers are clearly marked and kept away from children. If - a container contained toxic materials, destroy the container so it can not be re-used. ¯ Never store medicines or chemicals in old food containers that people could mistakenly ingest. ¯ Store dangerous tools in a place that cannot be accessed by children. ¯ Ensure that equipment is turned off and maintained. ¯ Dispose of all used medical supplies that could be biologically hazardous. Anything used medically should be disposed of through a biohazard control process. Facility and Equipment Safety Taking the time to maintain equipment and being purposeful with how facilities are built and maintained are investments that will pay large dividends when working with animals. Many accidents occur due to equipment that is either broken or not working properly, or facilities that have not been prepared for animal behavior and safety. Improper maintenance of equipment and facilities not only puts the handlers at risk, but also risks the well being of the animals. USDA-ARS Image Facility Safety Facilities can make a huge difference in how smoothly interactions can be with livestock. Most facilities are built with animal behavior in mind. The chutes allow animals to walk through curved walkways, the walls of worldng chutes are solid so that animals aren't startled, working restraints ensure that animals are safely held in one place, and raised walkways allow handlers to safely observe and complete tasks with little to no stress on the animals. When designing facilities for use with animals one should consider safety. Working areas should be well lit and avoid as many shadows as possible. A firm, level-walking surface should be provided with a roughened finish to prevent accidents. Chutes and alleyways should be designed to reduce excitement of animals. They should be wide enough for animals to pass through easily, but not so wide that animals are able to turn around. Solid walled chutes instead of open fencing are best, and curved chutes are more efficient than straight. Catwalks should include a safety rail if above 18 inches so that handlers are not in danger of falling into the work area. All gates and panels should be able to withstand crowding and escape-gates should be placed before squeeze chutes and crowding pens. When working with animals, it is important for workers to know their surroundings, should they need to escape from danger. As always, common sense should be used when handling animals. ANIMAL SCIENCE m It is important that the facilities are in proper order before animals are allowed to enter. Some things to consider are: Keep all facilities clean and orderly. Modify slippery steps and floors. Use only solid pens, chutes, gates, and ramps. Remember animals are large and can easily move mobile panels and gates. Use strong latches on all gates. Inspect the electric, water, ventilation, and fire systems. Keep all doors and gates closed. Ensure proper ventilation. m Maintain a comprehensive first-aid kit that is updated m regularly. Provide training on the operation of the equipment before beginning any work with the animals. USDA-ARS Image m R Equipment Safety and Maintenance Most accidents result from the equipment used in animal agriculture, not the actual animal. Obviously, equipment safety is an important part of livestock safety. The list of equipment used is enormous and ranges from large feed loaders to hot branding irons. It is important to consider a few factors when using equipment. First, training on how to operate the equipment is necessary. Many times people can learn how to use equipment on the spot, but what happens when problems arise? m Second, make sure that all safety guards and safety devices are in place and working properly. In order to ensure that safety measures are in place, one must inspect the equipment before it is turned on. Another potential safety hazard is electricity. Electrical accidents are common when working R with animals. Extension cords, outlets and light switches can all become a hazard if not properly maintained. Electric shock can happen quickly and unexpectedly. It is essential to shut off the m electricity before working on or adjusting any piece of equipment connected to electrical current. In addition, keep all keys and power switches inaccessible so that people cannot operate the equipment without permission or accidentally turn the equipment on. Children pose one of the largest risks. They have seen adults using the equipment but do not have a m full understanding of the risks involved. Farm accidents involving children are a huge concern, and it is vital they are kept away from agricultural equipment unless directly supervised by an adult. m UNIT 1 LIVESTOCK SAFETY Animal Behavior All animals, whether wild or domestic, act in certain ways. Many of these behaviors are predictable and have been an important topic of interest to those involved in animal agriculture (see Temple Grandin biography). The study of how animals behave in their natural habitat is called ethology. For animal science, this natural habitat is the pens, pasture, or facilities in which they live. Ethology has many practical applications for agriculture and the production of livestock. Abnormal behavior can be an indication of illness or USDA-ARS Image inadequate nutrition. More importantly, occurrences such as weather changes and stress play a large role in abnormal behavior. A producer should not assume sickness when the animal is not acting right. First, it is important to understand that animals have two different types of behavior: instinct and learned. Examples of instinctual behavior include a mother cow's instinct to protect her young and a horse's instinct to ldck at something that startles them from behind. As handlers, we can't stop these types of behaviors but can only be careful to not do things that cause them. Another often-used example of instinctual animal behavior is the "flight-zone". This zone represents the "space" that, if violated by someone or another animal, will cause the animal to flee out of instinct. Learned behaviors are those that are conditioned by the handlers. Examples include training a horse to come to the handler when he or she whistles, or cattle that know to move through a gate and towards the feeder when a feed truck shows up and honks. Handlers have some control over these behaviors. Working to develop behaviors is called conditioning. There are a number of things that can have an effect on the ethology, or natural behavior, of animals that should be considered. We use ethology to work with livestock in the safest way possible. Some examples of the use of ethology in the daily interaction with animals include stress, isolation, flight- zone, followers, disposition, maternal instincts, and movement. Noises, dead-ends, loading ramps, and an animal's memory are also important parts of ethology. ANIMAL SCIENCE m Stress Animal stress is the fundamental concern when Temple Grandin, Ph.D.- handling animals. Animals under stress can cause injury Animal Behaviorist to themselves as well as to the I I handlers. Stress can result from: Temple Grandin, a world-renowned animal scientist from Colorado State University, takes a unique m ¯ Fatigue perspective in animal behavior. Grandin, who is autistic, ¯ Transportation sees the world in a very different way, the way animals Dehorning m ¯ do. She describes that she is very visual and that her ¯ Overcrowding autism allows her to think in pictures. When thinking m ¯ Abusive handling about livestock management, she puts herself in the ¯ Extreme environment (heat, place of the animal to better understand what frightens cold, wind, moisture) them. ¯ Nutritional deficiencies ¯ Weaning Grandin, whose life was made into an Emmy Award- winning movie that was aired on HBO, has changed how animals are taken to slaughter, how livestock facilities Abusive handling refers to the are designed, and how livestock are managed on a use of whips, hot shots, clubs or day-to-day basis. She claims that if animals are treated sticks to move or work livestock. well, they produce better food. She shares that her These tools should be used No. 1 advice for handling animals is to remain calm and sparingly. If a meat production not yell at animals or physically abuse them in any way. animal is struck with a whip or other instrument, bruising To learn about Temple Grandin, you can check out one of her many books like Livestock Handling and Transport R to the meat could occur, which could ultimately affect the and Humane Livestock Handling. These can all be found at http://www.g ra ndin.com/inc/ads.html. quality of the meat product. m 1 What have you eaten today? What clothing are you wearing? Your answers will vary but will have one item in common animal science. The broad field of animal science provides J - us with the obvious products of food and clothing but also provides many other important items such as medicines and research models. In addition, animals are used for recreation and companionship. Whether you live on a farm or in the city, your life is affected by animal science virtually every day. Animal science has a tremendous economic impact in m the United States that may be hard to quantify but is easily billions of dollars annually. The food industry is one of the largest industries in the U.S. and is important to economic success and stability. Today's animal scientists must also be current on technological changes affecting animal science. Another consideration is the possible threat to our nation's food supply from biological terrorism. n m m UNIT 1 LIVESTOCK SAFETY I  Animal Flight Zone | \ / Hahdler Position I I /Handler Position Isolation Most animals do not like to be isolated. Cattle and sheep will attempt to jump or go through fences if they are isolated and sense other animals nearby. Flight-zone The flight-zone represents the "space" that, if violated by a person or some other animal, will cause the animal to flee. Followers Livestock have a strong desire to follow. They will actively maintain visual contact with each other. Livestock will also have a tendency to do the same activity at the same time. For example, animals will tend to water at the same time. Disposition Animal disposition will vary. Disposition is mainly a factor of inherited characteristics. Animals with a wild disposition can be dangerous. Maternal Instincts Mothers, especially cows and sows, may attack if they perceive a threat to their offspring. Movement Animals are highly sensitive to quick movements within their range of vision and may run if startled. Cattle and swine have a 300-degree range of vision, and sheep have a 270-degree range of vision. ANIMAL SCIENCE f- _ Much like Temple Grandin, there are many animal scientists who focus on the behavior of animals. Animal behavior jobs range from dog trainers to feed yard consultants who help design feedlots and working pens. Another large career is within the training of horses, which is really the conditioning of learned behaviors. It is a unique mix of animal -.psych°l°gy and agriculture. S Noises Animals are sensitive to sudden, loud noises and may run if startled. "Dead-end" Animals become excited if they sense an area from which they can't escape. Avoid right-angle corners and blind alleys. Use diagonal sorting pens, curved sorting chutes, and round pens to reduce the risk. Loading Ramps A loading ramp that is too steep will excite animals. Cattle and sheep ramps should not exceed 20 degrees and swine ramps should not exceed 15 degrees. Memory Animals will remember how they were treated. For example, if an animal is mistreated during loading, it will react accordingly during future loading attempts. It has been conditioned to view loading as a threat. Memory can work for or against a handler. Hazards Associated with Animal Diseases and Hormones Animals, like humans, get diseases and have health problems. A diseased animal is one that is not at ease or is uncomfortable. This can be caused by a number of factors, but the two most common diseases are either bacterial or viral which will be discussed further in later units. The key in regards to safety is zoonoses, or diseases that can be transferred from animals to humans. Currently, there are over 30 varieties of animal-borne diseases that are infectious to humans. These zoonoses can be passed on through direct contact with the animal or indirectly through contact with their bodily fluids or waste. Good hygiene and proper safety equipment are the keys to preventing this type of hazard. UNIT 1 LIVESTOCK SAFETY Common Zoonoses Rabies Rabies is the most well-known and feared zoonoses. It is an acute, infectious, often fatal viral disease that attacks the nervous system; transmitted through saliva. If an animal suspected to have rabies bites you, try to capture or ldll it without injuring the head. Take the animal to a veterinarian and consult a physician immediately. Brucellosis Brucellosis is a bacterial infection that causes Thinkstock Images recurrent fever in humans; transmitted by contact with tissues, blood, urine, and vaginal discharge. Many states are considered brucellosis-free. Spotted Fever and Lyme's Disease These are infectious diseases transmitted by ticks and mites. The symptoms are sometimes hard to identify, but mimic arthritis. Leptospirosis Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that causes an influenza-like illness and possibly death; transmitted through urine from an infected cow; bacteria enter the human body through cuts in the sldn or contact with membranes. Workers in milking pens are particularly at risk due to frequent contact with urine. Salmonellosis Salmonellosis is any number of bacteria causing a wide range of symptoms, including death. It is transmitted through contact with body fluids and feces. Many times, salmonellosis is discussed when people are infected by contaminated dairy products or eggs. Ringworm Ringworm is a fungal disease caused by a few closely related fungi that results in an itchy, ring-shaped patch on the animal's skin. It is transmitted through contact with an infected animal. Tuberculosis Tuberculosis is a disease characterized by the formation of tubercles (small nodules containing pus or dry yellowish cheesy material) in any or all organs. It is transmitted generally by the respiratory system and, in some cases, by contact with infected tissues or fecal material. Pink-eye Pink-eye is an infection of the eye membranes surrounding the eyelid. It can be transferred to other livestock, and if left untreated, blindness could occur. ANIMAL SCIENCE Techniques to Prevent Zoonoses Obviously it is important to protect handlers from the diseases that animals can transfer to humans. A few guidelines will help prevent the spread of these diseases which will keep the handler healthy, as well as contribute to the health of the animal. Handlers should be cautious by wearing rubber gloves and other protective clothing when attending to sick animals. This will keep any bodily fluids from coming in direct contact with the handler's skin. There should also be an established preventative vaccination program. This will help to eradicate disease, as well as protect handlers and animals from contraction. As always, a handler should wash his or her hands thoroughly after working with animals and always before eating. One of the easiest yet most beneficial measures that can be taken is the maintenance of a clean, healthy environment by providing proper housing and ventilation, as well as the correct disposal of manure. The appropriate disposal of dead animals and quarantine of sick animals will also contribute to providing a healthy environment. A proper pasture rotation if appropriate will also decrease the chance of contracting disease and spreading parasites. Safe Use of Hormones Scientists have identified many hormones and have been successful in synthesizing or creating them to enhance growth and production in livestock. DES (diethylstilbestrol) was used as early as 1954 to improve feed efficiency and increase growth rates. However, during the 1960's DES was found to cause rare forms of cancer within human females who used the drug to prevent miscarriages. So, the FDA (United States Food and Drug Administration) banned the use of DES as a feed additive in 1979. Issues like growth hormones have sparked a debate over their use, but today, hormones that have been tested and considered safe for humans are used to produce enough food to feed the world. The FDA as well as the WHO (World Health Organization) have made it clear that the use of hormones in food production has shown no adverse effects when used properly. The issue is obviously complicated. The important thing to realize is that hormones Growth hormone pellet implant guns are often used in livestock production, and CIMC photo the handling of those hormones, especially by females, can have negative effects on human health. Hormones can enter a female's system and affect her cycle and other reproductive functions, which is why females should be cautious when working with livestock hormones. Much like the diseases discussed, it is critical that rubber gloves and proper clothing are worn, and careful attention is given to the instruction and warning labels provided on the packages of hormonal treatments for animals. UNIT 1 LIVESTOCK SAFETY -- Current Trends in Animal Science Safety As the human population is growing exponentially, so is the need for a reliable food supply. Livestock producers have responded by raising more livestock and doing so more efficiently. This means more animals, a greater exposure to drugs and chemicals, larger and more dangerous equipment, and increased threats of the spread of diseases. Imagine, one person walking through a feedlot and unknowingly transferring a disease that could affect thousands of pounds of meat and the health and safety of thousands of consumers. The administration of hormones to thousands of cattle in one day could lead to exposure causing major damages to the handler. One animal carrying a zoonose at a small hometown cattle operation could contaminate an entire feedlot as it is moved to the next stage in the operation. Family livestock operations with an older set of working pens could lead to accidents that could have been prevented. As animal agriculture continues to grow and become more complex, safety for the animals and handlers becomes more important than ever. Many states have passed laws against gestation crates for swine and cages for laying hens. Some food service companies now have policies based on public opinions and these laws, saying they will only serve food that comes from farms without crates or cages. However, there are benefits to crates and cages for these animals. Swine will often harm their young if given the ability to roam freely after giving birth. Gestation crates will constrict movement of the sow to allow the piglets to nurse without giving the mother the ability to possibly kill them. Laying hens are often put in cages for safety and to reduce parasite infestation. The topic of confinement is a highly debated one in which there are advantages and disadvantages to the practice. Unit Summary Working with animals can be rewarding and productive, but it can also be dangerous. As is the case with any job, there are certain procedures that should be followed in order to make sure the job is done well and that everyone involved is safe. Animal agriculture is no different. In order to ensure the safety of the animal and the handler, individuals must be knowledgeable of the equipment used, maintain and service the equipment regularly, build and maintain facilities that are safe and effective in moving livestock, and maintain safe conditions in those facilities like lighting and solid walking surfaces. It is also important to consider biological concerns. Zoonoses are a hazard that handlers should be aware of. There are a number of diseases that can be transferred from animals to humans. Hormones pose another threat because they can be harmful to humans especially females. - Bottom line, it all comes down to education, careful attention, and prevention. There are hundreds of examples of livestock producers who do work livestock safely and accident free. These may not make the newspaper but are great examples of people making the right choices in terms of safety. Most accidents occur, not because of the animals but because the handlers and owners fail to give safety the attention it deserves. Safety is "no big deal" until there is a death or serious injury that reminds people of how dangerous livestock can be. ANIMAL SCIENCE  Unit Review m m m 1. What are some of the causes of most accidents on the farm? 2. Name five ways that accidents and injuries can be reduced. 3. How many agricultural accidents result in death? 4. Who is Temple Grandin and what has she done for animal handling? 5. What has improved productivity and reduced losses due to illness and death? 6. Name five safety factors to observe when working livestock. m 7. Name five safety precautions regarding livestock facilities. 8. Name five safety precautions for equipment. 9. What is the fundamental concern when handling animals? 10. Describe three behavioral factors that affect livestock handling. 11. What is ethology and why is it important to raising livestock? 12. What does it mean to condition an animal? 13. What are some common livestock-handling injuries and their causes? 14. What is leptospirosis and how is it transmitted? 15. Name two techniques to prevent zoonoses. 16. Why should handlers be concerned with hormones? UNIT 1 LIVESTOCK SAFETY ANIMAL SCIENCE