Safety on the Research Farm

Animal research conducted in farm environments can present unique challenges. Large animals, zoonotic disease risks, and exposure to extreme weather can make performing research on farms more risky. Below are additional resources for Animal Research on Farms.

Handouts about zoonotic risks on the farm:

Handouts about needlesticks on the farm:

EHS safety training for Farm Workers:

  • Agricultural Safety Training
  • Compressed Gas & Anesthetics for Animal Users
  • Reproductive Hazards in Research
  • Risk Communication in Animal Facilities
  • Species Specific Safety Training (Pigs, Cattle, Sheep and Goats, and Horses)

Farm related safety signage:

The following safety signage is available from UW EHS. Please contact the Animal Research Safety Group to request these signs.

  • Cattle Safety
  • Swine Safety
  • Goat and Sheep Safety

Injury reporting on the farm:

The most common animal related injuries on farms are physical injuries from interacting with the animals. Being kicked, being stepped on, and being squeezed between the animal and solid structures are the major hazards. Slips, trips, and falls are also common.

  • After the injury, complete any first aid as needed. Visit the local urgent care or emergency room if the injury is severe. Notify supervisors of the injury as soon as possible after it occurs.
  • Follow the Agricultural Research Stations procedures for injury reporting. At a minimum this should include the Worker’s Compensation Claim and the supervisors must complete the Supervisor Incident Analysis and Prevention Report.
  • Contact Occupational Medicine (608-265-5610) to discuss any follow-up care that may be needed (example: tetanus boosters needed).

Contact

Carrie Ensrud
Animal Research Safety Manager
carrie.ensrud@wisc.edu