Pig handlers face injuries from the size, strength and temperament of the animals they tend. Injuries may also relate to training of handlers, the safe design of pens, lanes and other yarding, and the administering of drugs and chemicals. Noise in pig sheds can reach levels that require hearing protection.

Spot the hazard

Check the safety of pens, floors and lanes, handling and restraining of animals, safety training for new and young workers, safe lifting methods, safe use of chemicals, and protection from diseases carried by pigs. Study worker injury records for evidence of hazardous jobs and situations.

Assess the risk

Assess whether any of the hazards identified are likely to cause injury or harm, and base safety decisions on the likelihood and possible severity of the injury or harm.

Make the changes

The following suggestions are to help minimise or eliminate the risk of injury or harm in pig handling:

• Check pens and lanes are large and strong enough for the pigs being handled.
• Ensure pen design assists the smooth flow of pigs - avoid sharp, blind corners, and ensure gates are well positioned.
• Keep facilities in good repair and free from protruding rails, bolts, wire and rubbish.
• Where pigs need restraining, use crushes and nose ropes.
• Try to maintain non-slippery conditions, especially in lanes and loading yards.

Stock factors

• Safety in pig handling varies according to a number of factors - age, sex, breed, weight, temperament and training of the animal.
• Boars can be aggressive and unpredictable. Treat them with caution.
• Boars are most aggressive during mating, and extremely dangerous when fighting.
• Prevent boars from coming in contact with each other at all times.
• When moving boars, use a drafting board.

Lifting pigs

• When lifting pigs, get assistance where possible.
• When lifting alone, sit the pig on its hindquarters, squat down, take a firm hold of the back legs, pull the animal firmly against your body and lift, using your legs and not your back.
• Remember, when lifting a pig this way, make sure the pig's head is positioned so that it cannot bring its head back into your face.

Chemicals, vaccinations and injections

• Read labels on chemicals and antibiotic containers carefully - follow manufacturers' instructions and safety directions.
• Sterilise needles, teeth cutters and ear pliers, and ensure operators observe hygienic practices.
• Observe recommended withholding periods for drugs and chemicals before pigs are slaughtered.
• Wear appropriate protective clothing.
• If headaches or any other discomfort is suffered after handling chemicals, seek medical advice and have appropriate tests.
• Avoid these chemicals if possible in future, and use full protective clothing and breathing filters when handling chemicals in the feed mill.
• Ensure correct dosage rates are maintained.

Transmittable diseases

• Animals carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans. Be familiar with the symptoms so you can tell if these diseases exist in the herd.
• If signs of disease appear, have the disease confirmed and animals tested. If the disease is present, treat affected animals appropriately and vaccinate to prevent further occurrence. Maintain a vaccination program.
• Diseases like Leptospirosis are transferred by urine, blood and saliva, and through open wounds. Keep open wounds covered and wash well with water, soap and antiseptic if contact is made with blood, urine or saliva from diseased animals (See Topic 19 on Zoonoses for further information).
• Maintain personal hygiene at all times.

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