John Shutske University of Minnesota

Publish Date: April 19, 2012

Injury to workers and animals can occur with all ages and developmental stages of pigs and during moving, loading or unloading, and processing. Strategies to prevent injuries are reviewed below. Situations and facilities vary and this list is not meant to be inclusive of all prevention and control strategies, but is meant to help stimulate the problem-solving process for producers.

Publish Date: April 9, 2012

Needlestick injuries can occur when injecting pigs with animal health products. If the pig suddenly jumps or moves, a worker could accidentally be stuck by the needle. Needlestick injuries have also occurred when workers have carried syringes loaded with medication in their pockets. Needlestick injuries should be considered serious as their effect on humans can vary greatly depending on the type of drug injected.

Publish Date: April 13, 2012

Despite your best intentions to prevent occupational safety and health problems, there will be times when unexpected events occur. Because accidents are inevitable, it’s critical that hog production facility employees familiarize themselves with the key emergency situation practices at the facility. An emergency action plan will tell you who to call, what to say and what steps to follow in an emergency.

Publish Date: April 13, 2012

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is a vitally important line of defense against hazards. You need to provide the PPE your employees may need to guard them against hazards on the job.

Publish Date: April 9, 2012

Of the top pork producing states, Utah, South Carolina, Minnesota, and Iowa have additional safety regulations specific to agriculture. Virginia has adopted additional standards that may affect pork producers although they are not specific to agriculture. The following are specifics on Virginia OSHA plans.