Working with pigs has its own inherent risks to workers. Pigs can be unpredictable and easily stressed, therefore handlers must remember that the pigs do not understand the objective of your work and have little experience being moved.
When working with pigs, especially sows, it is important to practice positive animal handling. Sows are large animals and can create safety hazards when moving throughout the barn. Positive animal handling techniques are important for both animal and worker safety. Calm pigs are easier to sort and separate than excited pigs and stress is reduced for both the animal and the worker.
Swine Training Guides
These guides are intended for training by farmers, ranchers, farm employees, veterinarians, human resources training staff and those involved with worker health and safety training/education.
UMASH Developed 2 Videos
Moving Sows: Be Safe and Smart – (available in both English and Spanish) which explains the practice of moving sows safely and securely to protect the worker.
Preventing the Flu – (available in both English and Spanish): addresses the transmission of flu from humans to pigs and pigs to humans and the necessary precautionary steps to avoid spreading the virus.