2015 Pan Pacific Veterinary Conference

The Shearing Shed Safety Training and Assessments Program is based on working with individual wool growers, grower groups and shearing contractors, to facilitate the identification and management of hazards in the shearing shed, the emphasis being occupational health and safety (OH&S). The program has operated in Western Australia since 2005, with each participant being trained on the legislative framework, respective responsibilities, and hazard identification followed by a participatory shed assessment. It is proposed to introduce the program nationally. Results from the program apply mainly to design, maintenance, & operational aspects of facilities including sheep & wool handling facilities, and to behavioural or procedural practices. A complementary census of shearing team leaders and members in 2013 prioritised ongoing problems for the industry, with 4 of 4 ranked problems relating to OH&S, 3 of 4 to animal health or welfare, and 2 of 4 to chemical use. Although some of the identified issues may be resolved by the shed assessment program, further attention to on-farm practices is required to address animal and human safety specific to the wool harvesting industry. The role of veterinary expertise in supporting this is discussed.