Showing livestock – staying safe while soaking up the atmosphere

All roads lead to the Tullamore Show and FBD National Livestock Show on August 9, where 45 livestock show titles are up for grabs. FBD risk manager, Ciaran Roche is no stranger to the showing spectacle, and he has some great advice. “As sponsors of the FBD National Livestock Show at the Tullamore Show, we’ve seen firsthand the incredible work that goes into getting animals ready for a show. However, it is important not to forget about safety in the excitement of the day.
“Show organisers make a significant effort to ensure the safety of everyone who attends their show. They put event-management plans in place, conduct risk assessments, implement safety controls, and ensure that they have adequate numbers of stewards on site to manage safety before, during, and after the event. It is essential that all members of the public, whether showing livestock or attending the show, follow these safety procedures, pay attention to safety signage, and cooperate with show stewards.”

Vehicles and livestock

Vehicles and livestock pose the most significant hazards at any agricultural show, says Ciaran. To help prevent vehicle-related accidents, he advises that it is essential to follow the route dedicated for livestock traffic and to drive at a safe speed, while always staying vigilant for pedestrians, especially young children.
Safe handling of livestock starts at home and ever before you arrive at a show, there are a few essential boxes that must be ticked, says Ciaran. “You must ensure that the livestock are used to being handled, trained to walk with a halter, used to getting in and out of a trailer, and that they have an appropriate temperament for showing. In addition, you must ensure that you wear safety footwear with a steel toe and soles with a good grip.”
Ciaran continues: “After arriving on site, check livestock before unloading to ensure that they are not agitated. If livestock are agitated and not calming down, it is best not to unload that animal or animals. 

“Only unload livestock at the dedicated unloading bay and follow the instruction of show stewards. Ensure livestock are safely controlled at all times by competent and physically able persons. Only walk livestock on the designated pathways and lead them with a halter. Always keep livestock physically secured when in stalls and don’t do anything that might spook them.
“Remember that livestock can be temperamental and easily agitated. It is essential that you keep a close eye on your animal, stay alert to the potential risks associated with the environment, and that safety is managed at all times.”