Dairy farming involves a number of hazards that workers must be trained to guard against. Working in close proximity to large (1200 pounds+) and unpredictable animals poses one of the greatest challenges. Many dairies also have significant farming operations to produce hay and silage for the livestock which exposes workers to powered farm machinery. Dairy workers often live on the dairy with their family which exposes small children and adolescents to these same hazards. Dairy farming is a 365 day per year enterprise and it is easy to get lulled into complacency.

The most frequent injuries sustained by dairy workers follow the exposures mentioned. Much less common, but no less serious are occupational health hazards found on the diary. In addition to producing tons of fresh milk, dairies produce large amounts of organic wastes. Most modern dairy designs use flushing systems to move this waste into settling ponds where it may be reclaimed as a fertilizer. The piping, pumping and storage of wastewater pose unique hazards. The metabolic action of bacteria on the organic waste can produce toxic gases such as hydrogen sulfide and methane. Unfortunately, multiple-fatality accidents have occurred when diary workers have been exposed to these gases in structures where ventilation is poor and access is difficult such as in sumps and standpipes.

Very little has been published regarding these hazards in open air structures such as settling ponds and lagoons. In 2003-2004 Zenith Safety & Health staff conducted research to determine what hazards might exist in these common dairy structures. The researchers concluded that these open air facilities were probably less hazardous than poorly ventilated areas but that special precautions were still warranted. The research was published in the February 2005 issue of Occupational Health & Safety. For more information on the research or a reprint of the article contact your local branch office.