Safety at Lambing

Lambing is the busiest time of the sheep farmer’s year. Longer than normal working hours combined with a vastly increased workload can lead to corners being cut and certain important factors in being neglected.

We take a look at some of the top safety tips to keep in mind to ensure that your safety and the safety of others on the farm is kept at the forefront.

Proper Facilities

Whether you are lambing indoors or outdoors, it is essential to have the right facilities in place. This has a dual benefit. Not only does it make the whole process easier on the farmer, it also allows for the safe handling of the pregnant ewe.

In a lot of cases, this does not need to involve a huge cost. A hanging gate erected in the correct positions is often sufficient. However, if you are willing to make a longer term investment in upgrading handling facilities on the farm, there are a number of TAMS grants available that offer significant relief when purchasing equipment.

If lambing indoors, it is critical to have sufficient lighting to ensure that all work areas are illuminated and that one does not fall victim to a trip or fall.

Hygiene Practices

Make sure to wear the correct Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when handling or working with pregnant ewes. Protective clothing should be very well-washed. Ideally, outdoor clothing should be removed before coming into the house during lambing time.

Wearing gloves on both hands is important when lambing in order to protect yourself from contamination from amniotic fluids. Gloves should be tight-fitting to give the best protection.

A proper and thorough wash with warm water and soap is needed, not just a rinse. Hands, arms and face should be washed thoroughly to eliminate infection.

Disinfection points should be set up at all entry and exit points on the farm to eliminate transmission of infection.

Risk Assessment

Carry out a risk assessment of your farm and update your safety statement before the lambing season starts. Identify the hazards, risks and appropriate control measures and most importantly ensure that the control measures are implemented and communicated to everybody working on the farm. Tractors, machinery, livestock and slip, trips and falls are the main causes of fatalities and serious accidents and ill health on the farm and because of this these hazards should be given special attention.

Rest, rest and more rest

Make sure to get as much rest as possible during the lambing period. Avail of any help that may be on offer. Casual labour may need to be considered depending on the size and scale of the operation. It is important to be aware that a lack of sleep can reduce your awareness to potential hazards.