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    Substitution

    Eliminating the hazard by substituting a safer process or material, where possible, is the most effective control. A key question to ask is:

    • Can an automated or mechanical process be used so workers can avoid being in a potentially hazardous situation with livestock or other animals?
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    Engineering controls

    Making physical modifications to facilities, equipment, and processes can reduce exposure. A question to consider is:

    • Are animal enclosures designed to reduce the risk of injury to workers?
    • Are animal enclosures designed to allow enough room for workers to escape in the event of an emergency?
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    Administrative controls

    These involve involve the use of policies or written safe work procedures to minimize exposure to a hazard. Administrative controls include reducing exposure time, and training and educating workers. As an employer, you may decide to adopt a company policy that requires everyone to follow specific procedures to reduce the risk of injury. Supervising workers is essential for administrative controls. Some questions to consider:

    • Can the job be changed to minimize exposure time to animals?
    • Have specific safe work procedures been developed for tasks involving animals?
    • Have workers been trained on safe work procedures?
    • Are supervisors ensuring workers are competent in their animal handling duties?
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    Personal protective equipment

    This is the least effective control. When used, there must always be at least one other control in place. Some questions to consider:

    • Are workers using the correct footwear, gloves, eyewear, and respirators when working with livestock?
    • Has personal protective equipment been tested to make sure it's working properly?


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