GUIDE FOR SAFE DESIGN - ALRTA...JUNE 2015 1 1.0 INTRODUCTION This guide provides information on the...

GUIDE FOR SAFE DESIGN OF LIVESTOCK LOADING RAMPS AND FORCING YARDS

Version: JUNE 2015

Australian Livestock and Rural Transporters Association

2 AustrAliAn livestock And rurAl trAnsporters AssociAtion

TABLE OF CONTENTS OF LIVESTOCK LOADING RAMPS AND FORCING YARDS

TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE

1.0 Introduction 1

2.0 Scope 1

3.0 Disclaimer 1

4.0 HealthandSafetyObligations 2

5.0 AnimalWelfareObligations 2

6.0 IdentifyingtheHazards 2

7.0 Assessing and Controlling Risks 3

8.0 CriticalControlPointsforLivestockRampsandForcingYards 3

9.0 GeneralDesignPrinciples 5

10.0 SuggestedControlstoManageSpecificRisks 6

10.1 CriticalControlPoint1:Interfacebetweentruckandloadingramp 6

10.2 CriticalControlPoint2:Exit/entrygateattopoframp 9

10.3 CriticalControlPoint3:Loading/unloadingrampparameters 10

10.4 CriticalControlPoint4:Gainingaccess 13

10.5 CriticalControlPoint5:Interfaceinforcingpen 16

10.6 CriticalControlPoint6:Gatesstrikingoperator 17

11.0 Suggested Ramp Designs 18

11.1 Singledeckandmulti-deckramps 18

11.2 Unloading ramps 18

11.3 Total number of ramps 18

11.4 Designsforcattle 19

11.5 Designsforsheep,pigs,lambs,goatsandcalves 19

11.6 Supportinginfrastructure 19

AppendixA–DesignsforCattle 21

AppendixB–DesignsforSheep,Pigs,Lambs,GoatsandCalves 28

AppendixC–TruckLoadingPlatform 33

AppendixD–GlossaryofTerms 34

AppendixE–KeyContacts 35

AppendixF–SafetyAuthorities 37

AppendixG–ReferenceMaterial 38

AppendixH–Acknowledgements 39

1JUNE 2015

1.0 INTRODUCTION

Thisguideprovidesinformationonthesafedesign,constructionandoperationoflivestockloading/unloadingrampsandforcingyards.The purpose of the guide is to promote safer workplaces for people in contact with livestock loading facilities and to improve animal welfare outcomes.

Theguideisatooltoassistintheassessmentofexistingfacilitiesandaidinthedesignofproposednewfacilities.Itsummarisesthepotentialhazardsoflivestockloadingrampsandforcingyardsandpracticalexamplesofwaystocontrolassociatedrisksfordifferenttypesoffacilities.Generalprinciplesareidentifiedaswellasaseriesofmodelrampdesigns(rangingfromlow-costbasicdesignsforfarmstomoreadvancedcommercialdesigns)thatadheretothese guidelines.

Legislationrequiresthatsafetyrisksbecontrolledasfarasisreasonablypracticable.AustralianAnimalWelfareStandardsrequirelivestockhandlingfacilitiesbeconstructed,maintainedandoperatedinawaythatminimisesriskstothewelfareoflivestock.Theguidedoesnotreplaceanystatutoryoraccreditationrequirementsthatmayapply.Examplesofotherrequirementsthat may apply are at Appendix G.

2.0 SCOPE

Thisguidedealswiththemovementoflivestockandthefacilitiesusedfromthetimelivestockaredraftedintoforcingpens,traversealoadingrampandenteratransportvehicle(orviceversa).Otherstagesofthelivestocksupplychainarenotincluded.

Examplesofthetypesoffacilitiestowhichtheseguidelinesmayapplyincludefarms,feedlots,spellingyards,saleyards,import/exportterminalsandabattoirs.

Examplesofspecificelementsaddressedincluderaces,surfaces,sidesheeting,supports,gates,latches,hinges,chains,ladders,steps,platforms,walkways,bridging,flaps,guards,winches,lighting,signage,vehicleaccessandmanagementcontrols.

3.0 DISCLAImER

Thispublicationrepresentsgeneraladviceonly.Applicabilitytoindividualfacilitiesmustbeassessed by users on a case by case basis. Some photos contained in this guide to illustrate aparticulardesignprinciplemaynotbe100%compliantinotherareas.Ifunsure,pleasecontactyourStateorTerritorySafetyAuthority(Appendix F).

Toensureyoucomplywithyourlegalobligationsyoumustrefertotheappropriatelegislation.Thispublicationdoesnotrepresentacomprehensivestatementofthelawasitappliestoparticularproblemsortoindividualsorasasubstituteforlegaladvice.Youshouldseekindependentlegaladviceifyouneedassistanceontheapplicationofthelawtoyoursituation.

TheAustralianLivestockandRuralTransportersAssociation(ALRTA)disclaimsallwarrantieswithregardtothisinformationandinnoeventshalltheALRTAbeliableforanydirectorindirectconsequentialdamageswhatsoeverarisingfromtheuseofthisguide.TheALRTAreservestherighttoalter,amendorrescindthispublicationatanytime.


4.0 HEALTH AND SAFETY OBLIGATIONS

WhilespecificlegislationcandifferacrossStateandTerritoryjurisdictions,everyoneintheworkplacehasaworkhealthandsafetyduty.ThemaindutiesstipulatedinthenationalModelWork Health and Safety Act are set out in Table 1.

WHO DUTIES

Person conducting a business or undertaking

Apersonconductingabusinessorundertakingmustensure,sofarasisreasonablypracticable,thatworkersandotherpeople(i.e.allpersonswhomaybeexposedtorisksatalivestockloadinglocation)arenotexposedtohealthandsafetyandwelfarerisksarisingfromthebusiness or undertaking.

Designers, manufacturers, suppliers and importers

Designers, manufacturers, suppliers and importers of plant or structuresmustensure,sofarasisreasonablypracticable,theplantorstructureiswithoutriskstohealthandsafety.Forexample,ensuringconstructionmaterialsusedforfacilitiesarefit-for-purpose.

Officers Officers,suchascompanydirectors,haveadutytoexerciseduediligencetoensurethebusinessorundertakingcomplieswiththeWorkHealthandSafetyActandRegulations.Thisincludestakingreasonable steps to ensure the business or undertaking has and uses appropriate resources and processes to eliminate or minimise risks at theworkplace.

Workers and others Workersandotherpeopleattheworkplacemusttakereasonablecarefortheirownhealthandsafety,co-operatewithreasonablepolicies,proceduresandinstructionsandnotadverselyaffectotherpeople’shealth and safety.

Table 1: Main duties of the national Model Work Health and Safety Act

5.0 ANImAL WELFARE OBLIGATIONS

Allpersonsaresubjecttoparticularstateandterritorylawsforthepreventionofcrueltytoanimalsincludinglivestock.AdditionalspecificdutiesalsoapplytoallpartiesinthelivestocksupplychainundertheAustralianAnimalWelfareStandardsandGuidelinesfortheLandTransportofLivestockandtheAustralian Animal Welfare Standards and Guidelines for SaleyardsandDepots(proposed).

Facilitiesthatachieveexcellenceinanimalwelfareoutcomesaresaferforpeopletoo.Understandinganimalbehaviourisfundamentaltodesigningfacilitiesthatpromoteasmoothflowandbestpractice(lowstress)handlingoflivestockbycompetentlivestockhandlers.

3JUNE 2015

6.0 IDENTIFYING THE HAzARDS

Thefirststepintheriskmanagementprocessistoidentifyallhazards.Hazardidentificationshouldbedoneasearlyaspossibleintheconceptdevelopmentanddesignphases.Forproposednewinfrastructure,thisinvolvesidentifyingissues,practicesandsituationsthatcouldpotentiallycauseharmtopeopleoranimalsthroughoutthelivestockloadingfacility’slifecycleandthereasonablyforeseeablehazardsassociatedwitheachactivity.

Hazardsusuallyrelatetotheplantitselforhowandwhereitisused.Hazardsmaybeidentifiedbyconductingworkplaceinspectionsandreviewingworkproceduresinconjunctionwiththisguide.

Itisalsobeneficialtoconsultwithworkers,equipmentusers,manufacturers,importers,suppliers,plantandhealthandsafetyspecialistsandreviewrelevantinformation,recordsandincident reports.

7.0 ASSESSING AND CONTROLLING RISKS

Ariskassessmentinvolvesconsideringwhatcouldhappenifapersonoranimalisexposedtoahazardandthelikelihoodofithappening.Riskcontrolsmusteffectivelyeliminatetheriskor,wherethatisnotreasonablypracticable,minimisetherisk.Eliminationisthemosteffectivecontrolmeasureandmustalwaysbeconsideredbeforeanythingelse.

Thisguideprimarilyaimstoaddresshazardsinthedesignphase.Whilesoundlivestockhandlingtechniquesareessentialtoreducetheriskfrominteractingwithlivestock,ensuringlivestockloadingfacilitiesareappropriatelydesignedtoeliminateorminimiseriskisthemosteffectivemethodandcanavoidcostlychangesafterlivestockloadingfacilitiesareoperational.

Theriskcontrolsspecifiedintheseguidelineshavebeendevelopedinconsultationwithindustryparticipantsacrosstheanimalsupplychain.However,thesecontrolsarenon-exhaustiveandinnovativeapproachestocontrollingriskisencouragedwhererequired.

8.0 CRITICAL CONTROL POINTS FOR LIvESTOCK RAmPS AND FORCING YARDS

Acriticalcontrolpointisthepointinaprocesswherefailuretocontrolknownhazardscanleadtoseriousharmtopeople,animalsorequipment.

Thelivestockloadingprocessisrelativelycommonandwell-understood.Industryexpertsagreethattherearesixcriticalcontrolpointsasillustratedintheexamplecattlerampandforcing yard at Figure 1.

Addressingthesecriticalcontrolpointshasthegreatestimpactintermsofreducingrisksandmeetinglegislativeobligations.


1.60

3.30

1) INTERFACE BETWEEN TRUCK AND LOADING RAMP

2) EXIT/ENTRY GATE AT TOP OF RAMP

3) LOADING/UNLOADING RAMP

4) GAINING ACCESS

6) GATES STRIKING OPERATOR

5) INTERFACE IN FORCING PEN

MANGATE

LEVEL EXTENSION

TRUCK BRIDGING

NON SLIP FLOOR

MIN. LENGTH TO GET TO SEMITRAILER HEIGHT

RECESSED SLAMGATE

MIN. 400MM OF SIDE RAILSHEETING FROM FLOOR (1200MMBETTER)

TOP RAIL OF 1700MM

THROW GATE WITHSLAM SHUT CATCH

SIZE OF PENS TO BE 20 SQMDIVIDABLE INTO 10 SQM PENS

800MM CLEARANCE INSIDE

NON SLIP WALKWAY

NON BRUISE POSTS

MANGATE

THROW GATE TO BE CLOSEDAND OPENED FROM WALKWAYAND SWING 180 DEGREES

CATTLE LOADING RAMP AND FORCING PEN

WALKWAY TO MEET AUST.STANDARD AS 1657

NON SLIP FLOORING

APPROCH TO SINGLE FILERACE APPROX. 30 DEGREES

RED WRITING = HAZARD

BLACK WRITING = CONTROL

30�

Figure 1: Critical Control Points

FIGURE 1: CRITICAL CONTROL POINTS

5JUNE 2015

9.0 GENERAL DESIGN PRINCIPLES

Asthevolumeoflivestockthroughputand/orfrequencyofuseincreases,sodothepotentialrisksandtheneedtohavepurposebuiltequipmentthatdealswiththeserisks.AroundAustraliatherearemanydifferenttypesoflivestockloadingfacilities.Thefollowingscenariostypicallyapply:

• Small farms:lowvolume,infrequentusage.• Mid-farms / small commercial facilities:mediumvolume,infrequentusage.• Large farms / medium commercial facilities:mediumvolume,frequentusage.• Annual / special sales:medium-highvolume,infrequentusage.• Large commercial facilities:highvolume,highfrequency.

Workhealthandsafetylawsrecognisethatwhatis‘reasonablypracticable’fordifferentfacilitiescanvarydependinguponfactorssuchasfrequencyofuseandexposure,typeofstockbeinghandledandenvironmentalconditions.However,therearesomegeneraldesignprinciplesthatshouldbeappliedtoalllivestockloadingfacilitiesregardlessoftheirsize.Theseinclude:

Consider the primary aim:• Separationofpeopleandanimals;• Facilitiesshouldminimisesafetyandwelfarerisksandpromotesmooth‘flow’oflivestock;

Consider the intended use:• Rampsshouldbeconstructedappropriatetothespeciesofstockandvehiclesused;• Rampsshouldbealignednorth-southtoavoidloadingintothesun;• Noiseandvisualdistractionsshouldbeminimised;• Ifthefacilitywillbeusedatnight,adequateoverheadlightingshouldbeprovidedcapableof

evenlyilluminatingpens,loadingareasandvehiclestoencouragesafeanimalmovement;• Rampsshouldbebuilttoenablesingleoperatoruseandeaseofoperation(Note: It is

advisable that ramps are not operated by a single person. However, where appropriate the ramp design should take into account that this is sometimes unavoidable);

Get the design right:• Facilityoperatorsshouldconsultwithfacilityuserstoassistintheinitialdesignphase;• Hazardsshouldbeaddressedthroughgooddesigninpreferencetomanagementcontrols;• Usenon-slip(easytoclean)andnon-bruisingmaterialsthroughout;• Engineer’sinformationandstatutoryrequirementsshouldbereferencedwhendesigningnew

rampsorreplacingbolts,cablingandhardwaretomaintainasafeworkingloadlimit;

Maintain safety standards:• Facilityoperatorsshouldregularlyconsultwithfacilityuserstoassistintheearlyidentification

ofemergingsafetyrisks;• Facilitiesshouldbecleanandinagoodstateofrepair;• Ratedcapacityshouldbedisplayedontherampandtheworkingloadlimitdisplayedonany

winch/hoist.• WinchesmustcomplywithAS1418.21997andfrictionclutchesarerecommended;• Personsusingthefacilityshouldbeappropriatelytrainedaccordingtotheirrole;• Signageshoulddisplayemergencycontactdetailsforthefacilityoperator;• Facilityusersshouldreportallfaultsorsafetyissuestomanagement;and• Reviewrelevanthazards,risksandcontrolsperiodicallyandafteranincidentornearmiss.


10.0 SUGGESTED CONTROLS TO mANAGE SPECIFIC RISKS

10.1 Critical Control Point 1: Interface between truck and loading ramp

# HAzARD RISKS CONTROLS

1. Poorvehicleaccesstoloading point.

• Damagetovehicleorramp.

• Inefficientloadingpracticescausingstresstopeople and animals.

• Crashrisktovehiclesonpublic roads.

• Access should accommodate appropriate transportvehiclesthatfrequentthesite.

• Ideally,accessshouldatleastprovideforab-doubleandlargervehiclessuchasroadtrainsinareaswheretheroadnetworkallows.

• Vehicularapproachtotherampshouldhaveaslightfallbackwardstoenablevehiclestoberolledintopositiongently.Alineshouldbepainted,orreflectivematerialfitted,ontheroad surface to assist this approach.

• Sideloadingvehiclesshouldbeabletoapproacharamponalevelsurface.

• Ideally,vehiclesshouldnotberequiredtocommencereversingonapublicroadway(alwayschecklocallaws).

• Useofloadingfacilitiesshouldnotblockvehicletrafficfloweitherwithinthefacilityoronapublicroadway.

• Entryandexitpointsforvehiclesshouldminimisetraffichazards.

• Developaconsistenttrafficflowplan (e.g.clock-wiseonly).

• Ensuretrafficflowisfreefromdangerousobstructionssuchaspowerlinesandtrees.

2. Crushing point

betweenrearoftruck/trailer and front of ramp.

• Severeinjuryordeathdueto entrapment or being struckbyvehicle.

• Nogozonebehindvehicle.• Reversingalarmsonvehicles.

3. Ramp not securely fixedtotheground.

• Rampmovingbackwardsor becoming unstable whenvehiclebacksintoit.

• Fixedrampsmusthavesuitablefoundations topreventmovement. Refer Figure 8

• Portablerampsmustbesecurelyfixedand havesuitableanchoringdevicestopreventmovementwhilestockisbeingloadedor unloadede.g.wheelchocksand appropriately secured to the end of thevehicle. Refer Figure 2

Figure2

FIGURE 2

7JUNE 2015

Note –Ramp not at suitable height.

10.1 Critical Control Point 1: Interface between truck and loading ramp, continued


4. Ramp not securely fixedoralignedwiththevehicle.

• Damage to rear of stock crate.

• Slip,trip,fallInjurytooperator.

• Injurytostockduetolegsfallingbetweengaps.

• Ifgaptooexcessiveprovidespossibleescapepoint for stock.

• Risk to public being struck by escaped animals.

• Operator being struck whileretrievingflap.

• Secure structure.• Solidextensionsshouldbeusedtocoverany

gapsbetweentheloadingrampfloorandthefloorofthevehicle.

• Suitable alignment for truck to ramp.• Rampatsuitableheightforvehicle.

Refer Figure 3a & 3b• Ideally,thereshouldbeaself-aligning

compressibleinterfacewiththevehicle–particularlyifdriversfinditdifficulttopullup‘squarely’. Refer Figure 4a & 4b

• Bufferstopsonfrontoframpingoodcondition.Refer Figures 4a & 4b

• Curved(ideally)folddownflapsmadefromnon-slipmaterialavailabletocompensateforheightvariation. Refer Figure 5

• Flapretrievalmechanismhasachainattachedtotherampinapositionwheretheoperatordoesnotneedtobenddownandcanaccessitfrom inside the ramp. Refer Figure 5

FIGURE 4aFIGURE 3a

FIGURE 4b FIGURE 5FIGURE 3b


10.1 Critical Control Point 1: Interface between truck and loading ramp, continued


5. Rough, slippery or steep access from ground leveltofacilitycreatingslip, trip or fall issue.

• Lacerationorfractureinjurytooperator.

• Provisionofsuitableaccesssuchaswalkwayorladderwithnon-slipsurfacetocomplywiththeAustralianStandard–AS1657-2013,'Fixed platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders - Design, construction and installation'. Refer Figure 6

FIGURE 6

9JUNE 2015

10.2 Critical Control Point 2: Exit/entry gate at top of ramp


1. Noemergencyexit/entry gate at top of ramp.

• Inabilityofoperatortoexitquicklyinanemergencytopreventbeingstruckbyananimal.

• Self-closing,inward-opening,non-latchinggate at top of ramp for emergency access. The gateshouldbeideally500mmwidetopreventstockescapingandopenontoaflatareafreeofobstructions. Refer Figure 7

• Gategivessafeaccesstoensurethatcratebackdoorpinhasbeeninstalledtopreventstockfalling from truck during transit.

• Considerinstallingawalkwayadjacenttovehiclesothereisnoneedtoenterthevehicle.Refer Appendix C

2. No sliding gate at top of ramp.

• Beingstruckbystockcomingbackoutofvehiclewhileretrievingfold-overflapand/orclosingcratedoor.

• Striking head on sliding gate frame.

• Provisionofslidinggateprovidessafeaccesstorearofvehicletoclosethecratedoorandforretrievalofflap. Refer Figure 8

• Gateshouldbeareasonablesize,beatfloorleveltoavoidatrippinghazardandatasuitableheighttoavoidhittinghead.

• Externalwalkwaytobepositionedonthelefthandsideoftheramp(lookingupfromthebaseoftheramp)ifnoslidegatefitted.

FIGURE 8FIGURE 7


10.3 Critical Control Point 3: Loading/unloading ramps


1. Loading/unloadingintoamulti-deckcrate.

• Slip,trip,fallInjurytolivestockoroperator.

• Decreasegradientviainstallingamulti-deckramp–particularlyinhighuseapplications.

2. Slippery surfaces or protrudingobjects.

• Slip, trip, fall or impact Injurytolivestockoroperator.

• Rampsshouldbeconstructedwithnon-slipflooring(whichiseasytoclean)andnon-bruisematerial. Refer Figures 9a & 9b

• Removeanysharporprotrudingobjects. Refer Figure 9c

3. Loadingramptoowideallowingstocktobaulkor turn around.

• Stockwillsufferstressanddamageorjamacrosstheramp.

• Operator may enter the ramporraceinanattempttomovestock.

• Rampwidthisdeterminedbythestockbeinghandled, generally the recommended internal widthofaload/unloadrampis800mmforcattle,900mmforsheepandpigs.

• Dumprampsnormallywider.

4. Overallrampheightinappropriate.

• Pooralignmentwithcratedecks causing steps or gaps.

• Slip,trip,fallInjurytolivestockoroperator.

• Forcattleandhorses,rampheightshouldbe1100mm from the ground for single deck or bottomdeck,and2800mmforthetopdeck.

• Forpigs,lambs,sheep,goatsandcalvessuggested ramp heights are 1100mm from the groundforsingledeckorbottomdeck,and1400-1600mmfortopdeck.

5. Rampwallheightsinappropriate.

• Toolowwillallowlivestocktoexitoverthesides.

• Toohighwillpreventoperatorsexitinginanemergency.

• Rampwallheightshouldbe1000mmforsheepand1700mmforcattle.

• Note: Height should be at least 1200mm for goats or an additional top rail could be added.

6. Ramp incline angle too steepcreatingdifficultyin loading stock.

• Stockwillnotmoveuparamp that is too steep.

• Stockwillslipandpossiblylaydowncausinginjury.

• Recommended ramp incline angle should not exceed20degrees.

• Toassistloadingandunloadingcattle,thereshouldbeaflatplatformnotlessthan1600mminlengthatthetopoftherampthatislevelwiththedeckbeingunloaded.

11JUNE 2015

FIGURE 9a FIGURE 9b FIGURE 9c

10.3 Critical Control Point 3: Loading/unloading ramps, continued


7. Ramp surface too smoothorcoveredinmudandeffluent.

• Stockwillslipandpossiblylaydowncausinginjury.

• Ensurerampsurfaceisclean.Ideally,therampwillbedesignedtodrainorbeself-cleaning.

• Flooringandsurfacesshouldbedesignedtomaximisegripandminimiseslippingandfalling.Strategiestoimprovegripincludeslatsorgroovesinthesurface.

• Livestockprefertowalkupanddownstepsrather than inclines.

• Forcattle,thesurfaceshouldbemadeofnon-slipmaterialwitheithercrosscleats,40-50mmwidespacedat300mmcentresor,ifconcrete,asuitablecross-groovedpatternofstepstoprovidegoodfootingwhentherampiswet.Recommended dimensions are 450mm treads and 100mm rises. Refer Figures 9a & 9b

• Forsheep,rampstepswith250mmoftreadsand50mmrisesorcrosscleats25mmwideandhigh at 200mm centres are recommended.

8. Lackofinfillonthesidesoframpandracewalls.

• Noorlimitedinfillonrampsidewallscausestocktobaulk. There is also the potentialforthelegsofstock to slide out under the railscausinginjury.

• Potentialinjurytopeopleif arms or legs are placed through rail gaps or animal horns protrude.

• Installationofinfilltotheinsidewallsoframpsand races encourages stock to “run” plus reducestheriskofhumaninjury. Refer Figure 9c

• OnUnder/Overrampsthebottomlevelwalkwayshould be on the right hand side to aid line of sightintotrucktomonitorstockmovement.

• Railingsonrampsandracewaysshouldbeofappropriateheight,withthegapssufficientlynarrowatthebottomtopreventlivestockbeingcaught,slippingthroughorbecominginjured.


Note - If a vet crush is in line with a loading ramp these are the things to consider:• gates in front of vet crush to be secure;• consistent width from the vet crush through to the ramp to prevent the animal turning; and• Vet crush operating handles should not impede continuous free access along the side of the vet crush to

enable the operator to control stock.

FIGURE 10bFIGURE 10a

10.3 Critical Control Point 3: Loading/unloading ramps, continued


9. Adjustablerampswithfaulty safety locks, no operatinginstructionsordesigned Safe Working Loaddisplayedaredangerous.

• Incorrect use due to lack ofinstructions.

• Unless ramp is locked into asetpositionithasthepotentialtofallcausingdamage to structures andinjurytostockandoperators.

• Overloadingoroperatingarampwhileloadedwithstockposesasignificantrisk.

• The structural load of the winchisdifferenttoitsliftingcapacity.Thiscanlead to confusion if not clarified.

• Whererampsareadjustable,appropriatesafetylockingdevicesmustbeinstalled(Refer Figures 10a & 10b)withclearinstructionsastohowtheyare to be used, including that the ramps must not beadjustedwithpeopleorstockonthem.

• Ramps should not be used if loading capacity islikelytobeexceeded.Engineeringdesignspecificationsandcomputationsshouldbeavailablefromthesupplier.

• Mechanicalsafetylockingdevicesshouldbeautomaticinoperationandhaveverticalincrements of no more than 100 mm.

• Mechanicalsafetylocksandliftingequipmentshouldberegularlymaintainedandoperational.Operatinginstructionsanddesignratedcapacityorworkingloadlimitmustbeclearlydisplayed.

• Hoists/winchesshouldbeattachedensuringthatthefixingpointcanhandlethetotalload.

13JUNE 2015

FIGURE 11

FIGURE 12

10.4 Critical Control Point 4: Gaining access


1. Climbingoverrails and gates.

• Potentialslip,tripand fallinjuries.

• Self-closing,inward-opening,600mmwide,personalaccessor“man”gateswithslamshutcatches,strategicallylocatedprovidesafeaccesstoworkingareas.Forexample(butnotlimitedto)fromtherearoftheforcingyardtothewalkway. Refer Figure 11

2. Directexposureto

livestock.• Injurybybeingstruck,

kicked or crushed by animal.

• Installexternallyoperatedthrowgateswithslamshut catches. Refer Figures 16a & 16b

• Provisionofawalkwayforusebyhandlersontheoutsideoftherampwillreducetheneedforthe handler to enter yard or ramp. It can also facilitateeasystockmovementandisessentialonsheeted ramps.

• Accessintotherampandhencethevehiclefromthiswalkwayisalsodesirabletofacilitatethe closure of gates in the loading structure or vehicle.

• Walkwaysshouldbedesignedtobecontinuouswithoutstepstoavoidslipandtriphazardsandwithoutcreatingdeadends. Refer Figure 12

• Walkwaysshouldideallybepositionedonbothsidesoframpsthatcanbeelevated.

• Iffittedononesideonly,thisshouldbeonthelefthandside(lookingupfromthebaseoftheramp)tofacilitateclosingofthecratedoor.

• Extendablewalkwaysshouldbefittedwhereappropriate.

• Thewalkwayshouldbeconstructedofanon-slipmaterial,haveadequatehandrailsandkickboardsandcomplywiththeAustralianStandard–AS1657-2013,'Fixed platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders - Design, construction and installation'.


FIGURE 13

10.4 Critical Control Point 4: Gaining access, continued


3. Unauthorised access underneath ramp.

• Injurypotentialintheeventofcollapse,fallingobjectsormechanicaldevices.

• Only authorised and appropriately trained personsshouldhaveaccesstotheloadingorunloading facility.

• Consider installing guarding around the base of rampstopreventunauthorisedaccess.Refer Figure 13

15JUNE 2015

Note - The edge of any walkway, platform, or landing where an object could fall more than 2 meters requires a 100mm toe-board to complywiththeAustralianStandard–AS1657-2013,'Fixed platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders - Design, construction and installation'.

FIGURE 14b

FIGURE 14e

FIGURE 14aLadderenablingsafeaccessfromthe ramp to the top of the crate

FIGURE 14d

FIGURE 14cCrossloadingstructurewithwalkwayenablingsafeaccesstothe top of the crate and from one crate to another

FIGURE 14f

10.4 Critical Control Point 4: Gaining access, continued


4. Loaderclimbingontotop or sides of the crate.

• Higher risk of fall if ladder orplatformisnotprovidedto assist climbing onto the crate from the loading infrastructure.

• Subjecttoprevailingstateregulations,aladderorplatformcanbeprovidedtohelptheloadertoclimb to the top of the crate to encourage animals tomovethroughthecratefrombehind.Thisisparticularlyimportantonunder&overrampsservicingtruckswithwalkwaysonthetopofthecrate(thesetrucksmusthavecompliantwalkwayswithsafetyrailsorsafetyharnessesavailabletotheoperator).Refer Figures 14a - 14f


Note 1 – On smaller facilities externally operated slide gates can achieve an effective separation from livestock and can also be used in other places such as in a race instead of externally operated throw gates.

Note 2 - Multiple gates are advantageous to pen livestock and to prevent them from running backwards as they progress through the forcing yard and ramp.

Note 3 - Attempting to move stock for loading directly out of laneways to race/ramp area without holding pens should be avoided.

FIGURE 15

10.5 Critical Control Point 5: Interface in forcing pen


1. Slippery surfaces or protrudingobjects.

• Slip, trip, fall or impact Injurytolivestockoroperator.

• Forcingpensshouldbeconstructedwithnon-slipflooringthatiseasytocleanandnon-bruisematerial. Refer Figures 9a & 9b.

• Removeanysharporprotrudingobjects. Refer Figure 9c

• Thegradientofthepenshouldprovideadequatedrainage e.g. 75mm per 1000mm.

2. Directexposuretolivestock.

• Injurybybeingstruckorkicked by animal

• Forcingpensshouldbebuilttoaccommodateapenofstockfortheusualsizestockvehiclesusingthefacility,plusanadditional20%space(e.g.1/2adeckforsemiswhichisusually2.5mx7m).

• Forcingpensdesignedsostockwillrunwithnoblind corners. Refer Figure 15

• Forcingpensshouldbedesignedtoenabletheoperatortomoveanddirectstockfromthewalkway,withouthavingtogetintothepen.

17JUNE 2015

FIGURE 16a

ExternallyoperatedgateatacommercialfacilityFIGURE 16b

Externallyoperatedgateatafarm

FIGURE 17a FIGURE 17b

10.6 Critical Control Point 6: Gates striking operator


1. Operator being struck by gate.

• Crushingandstrikinginjuryduetothrowbackofgates.

• Throwgatesexternallyoperatedwithslamshutcatches. Refer Figures 16a & 16b

• Considerationonwhichsidethegateishingedtominimise risk to the operator.

2. Attemptingtoengagechains on gates under pressure.

• Handorfingerlaceration. • Avoidusingchaincatchesorslidebolttypecatches on gates as the primary mechanism in high risk areas.

• Note: Chains or slide bolt on gates may be a suitablemeansofcontrolinlowusefacilities.Chains should be secured to the post and attachabletothegate.Refer Figures 17a & 17b

3. Noncaptivegatehingescausegateliftoff.

• Damage to stock and operators.

• Ensuregatehingesaredesignedtoprevent liftoff.


11.0 SUGGESTED RAmP DESIGNS

Livestockhandlingfacilitiescanhavedifferentloadingandunloadingrequirementsdependingupontheoperationbeingconducted,intensityofuse,typeofstockbeinghandledandthetypeofvehiclesusingthefacility.Thereisno‘onesizefitsall’solution.

11.1 Single-deck and Multi-deck RampsTheuseofeithersingle-deckormulti-deckrampsshouldtakeintoconsiderationboththetypeoftransportcommonlyusedandthenumberoflivestockbeingloaded/unloaded.Rampsthataffordthedirectdeliveryoflivestocktothetopdeckofavehiclesuchasadjustablesingle-deckrampsormulti-deckrampsshouldbeconsideredtoavoidlivestockhavingtonavigatetheinternalrampofthevehicle.Multi-deckrampsdecreasethedurationofthestressfulloading/unloadingprocess.

Ingeneral,single-deckrampsareadequateforsmallerfarmsandlowintensitycommercialfacilitiesthatusesingledecktransport,whilstadjustablesingle-deckramps(preferredifonlyonerampisprovided)ormulti-deckrampsshouldbeusedatsaleyards,feedlots,abattoirsandlargerfarms.

11.2 Unloading RampsItisadvantageousforsomefacilitiestohavespecialistunloadingramps,commonlyknownas‘dumpramps’.Dumprampsarewiderandofferanimalsanattractive‘clearrun’outofthevehicleintoaholdingpen.However,itisdangeroustoattempttoloadanimalsfromdumprampsanditisimportantthatallfacilitieshaveatleastonestandardloadingramptoenablesafeloadingofanimalsthatneedtobetransportedawayfromthefacility(e.g.becausetheyweremistakenlyunloaded).Therearedesignsavailablethatpairanarrowandawiderampsidebysidetoallowmaximumflexibility.

11.3 Total Number of RampsThereareseveralelementsthatneedtobetakenintoaccountwhendeterminingthenumberoframpsrequiredforanygivenlivestockhandlingfacility.Theseinclude:

• Peak capacity:Thereneedstobeanadequatenumberoframpstoefficientlyhandlethehighestvolumeloading/unloadingeventthatcanbereasonablyanticipated.

• Capacity constraints:Facilitymanagersshouldseektoidentify,reduceorremoveanycapacityconstraintsthatotherwiseimpactonefficientanimalflow.Examplesofcapacityconstraintsincludingweighingprocesses,restrictedinternaltrafficfloworavailabilityofvehicleparking.

• Animal welfare:Smoothandefficientloadingimprovesanimalwelfareoutcomesbydecreasingthedurationofstressfulloading/unloadingevents.

• Operator Safety:Smoothandefficientloadinglessensthelikelihoodofsafetyincidentsoccurring.

• Driver Fatigue:ItisimportanttonotethatHeavyVehicleNationalLawincludesa‘chainofresponsibility’thatimposesgeneralandspecificliabilitieson‘off-road’partiessuchasconsignors,schedulers,loadersandexecutiveofficerstotakereasonablestepstoavoidengaginginpracticesthatmaycontributetodriverfatigue(e.g.unreasonablequeueingtimes).Managersshouldassessfacilityinfrastructureandpracticestoidentifyandaddressanyissuesimpactingondriverfatigue.

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11.4 Designs for CattleAppendix Acontainsmodeldesignsforrampsandforcingyardsforcattlethathavebeendevelopedwithclosereferencetotheinformationoutlinedinthisguide.

Themodeldesignsinclude:• Generaloverheaddiagramoframpandforcingyardlayout;• Basicsingle-deckramp;• Standardsingle-deckramp;• Side-loadingsingle-deckramp;• Heavy-dutyadjustableramp;• Underandoverramp;and• Underandoverdumpramp.

Whilecarehasbeentakentodevelopwidelyapplicabledesignoptions,facilityoperatorsshouldtakeintoaccounttheirownspecificriskprofiletoensurethatthedesignchoiceisthebestsolutionforanyparticularfacility.Insomecases,itmaybemoreappropriatetodevelopanewanduniquedesignusingthevariousindividualelementsofthemodeldesignsaswellasinnovativeapproachestoanyunusual risks.

11.5 Designs for Sheep, Pigs, Lambs, Goats and CalvesAppendix B contains model designs for ramps and forcing yards for sheep, pigs, lambs, goats and calvesthathavebeendevelopedwithclosereferencetotheinformationoutlinedinthisguide.

Themodeldesignsinclude:• Generaloverheaddiagramoframpandforcingyardlayout;• Mobileramp;• Basicsingle-deckramp;• Standardadjustableramp;and• Heavy-dutyadjustableramp.

Whilecarehasbeentakentodevelopwidelyapplicabledesignoptions,facilityoperatorsshouldtakeintoaccounttheirownspecificriskprofiletoensurethatthedesignchoiceisthebestsolutionforanyparticularfacility.Insomecases,itmaybemoreappropriatetodevelopanewanduniquedesignusingthevariousindividualelementsofthemodeldesignsaswellasinnovativeapproachestoanyunusual risks.

11.6 Supporting InfrastructureWhilethisguideprimarilydealswithrampsandforcingyards,itispossibletoapplyinnovatestrategiestoreducerisksforotherelementsoftheloadingtasksuchasmovinglivestockthroughatrailerortransferringlivestockfromonetrailertoanother.Someexamplesinclude:

a. Crossloadingstructurewithwalkwayenablingsafeaccesstothetopofthecrateandfromonecratetoanother(Figure14c);

b. Railedgantryallowingaccesstothetopofthecratefromthesidewithilluminatedwalkwayalongthetopofthetrailer(Figure14f);and

c. Truckloadingplatformthatcanbebroughtalongsidethetrailertoprovidesafeaccesstoassistmovinganimalsthroughthecrateathighvolumedestinations(seeAppendix C).


SomefeaturesofthediagramatAppendixCinclude:• Quicktoengageanddisengage;• A3phasegearedelectricmotorwithtriplexchaindrivepivotsthewalkwayframealongside

truck;• Allowsintegrationbetweenloadingrampandunloadingframewalkways;• Allowssafeoperationofcrategatesonalldecks;• AccesstofolddownbridgingfromAtoBtrailers;• Walkways,stairwaysandhandrailscomplywithAustralianstandards;• Solidrubberwheelsforstabilityandtraction;and• Galvanisedconstruction.

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APPENDIX A - DESIGNS FOR CATTLE

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25JUNE 2015

27JUNE 2015


APPENDIX B - DESIGNS FOR SHEEP, PIGS, LAmBS AND GOATS

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APPENDIX C - TRUCK LOADING PLATFORm


APPENDIX D - GLOSSARY OF TERmS

Control –acontrolmeasure,inrelationtoarisktohealthandsafety,meansameasuretoeliminateorminimisetherisktopeopleoranimals.Involvesahierarchyofcontrolsincluding:elimination;substitution;isolation;engineering;administration;personalprotectiveequipment.

Critical Control Point–apointatwhichfailuretocontrolriskmaycauseharmtopeopleoranimals.

Dump Ramp –Awiderrampdesignedforhighvolumeunloading.

Duty –adutyimposedonapersontominimiseriskstohealthandsafetytopeopleandanimalssofarasisreasonablypracticable.Dutiescannotbetransferred.Apersonmayhavemorethanonedutyandmorethanonepersoncanhavethesameduty.

Emergency Exit Gate–agateatthetopofarampusedtorapidlyexitarampontoaplatformwhenthereisariskofbeingstruckbyananimal.

Fold Over Flaps–Adjustablecurvedflapsattachedtothetopofarampdesignedtoeliminateanygapbetweenthetruckandramp.Mustbefittedwithachaintoassistinretrieval.

Forcing Yard–aholdingpenwhichallowsoperatorstoencourageanimalsuptheraceorrampwhilemaintainingsegregationbetweenstockandpeople.Therearedifferentshapesincludingconventionalorroundstyledesigns.

Hazard–meansasituationorthingthathasthepotentialtocauseharm.Thiscanapplytopossiblemechanicaldamagetoequipmentaswellasinjurytopeopleandlivestock.

Personal Access Gate–Agateconvenientlypositionedtoallowanoperatortosafelyenterorexittheinternalstructureoflivestockfacility.

Race -normallyasetofparallelpanelsleadinguptotheramp.

Ramp –thestockyardstructureusedforloadingandunloadinglivestock.

Risk–isthepossibilitythatharm(death,injuryorillness)mightoccurtoapersonoranimalwhenexposedtoahazard.

Safety Locking Device -failsafesystemtoholdtherampinasetpositionwhileitisbeingused.

Slam Shut Catch–partofalatchthatisdesignedtoautomaticallyengagewhenagateisthrownorpushedshut.

Slide Gate – Usuallylocatedatthetopoftherampusedtopreventanimalsfromre-enteringtheramponceloadedintoavehicleandallowingforeasyflapretrieval.Slidinggatescanalsobeusedinotherplacessuchasinaraceinsteadofthrowgates.

Throw gate–Aninternalgatethatincludesaslamshutcatchthatcanbeoperatedfromanexternalposition.

Walkway–Adesignatedwalkingsurfaceusedformovingfromonepointtoanother.SeeAustralian Standard 1657-2013 Fixed Platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders – Design, construction and installation.

Winch–amechanicalliftingdeviceusedtochangeheightorinclineofaloadingramp.

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APPENDIX E - KEY CONTACTS

Thefollowingorganisationshavebeeninvolvedinthedevelopmentofthispublication:

ORGANISATION CONTACT DETAILS


Phone: 02 6247 5434 Email: [email protected] Web: www.alrta.org.au

Livestock and Rural Transporters Association of Victoria

Phone: 0400 933 713 Email: [email protected] Web: www.lrtav.com.au

Livestock and Bulk Carriers AssociationPhone: 02 6230 6290 Email: [email protected] Web: www.lbca.org.au

Livestock and Rural Transporters Association of Queensland

Phone: 07 4778 4048 Email: [email protected] Web: www.lrtaq.com.au

Livestock and Rural Transporters Association of Western Australia

Phone: 08 9208 0320 Email: [email protected] Web: www.lrtawa.org.au

Livestock and Rural Transporters Association of South Australia

Phone: 0400 653 613 Email: [email protected] Web: www.ltasa.com.au

Livestock Transporters Association of Tasmania Phone: 0409 126 788 Email: [email protected]

Australian Livestock and Marketing AssociationPhone: 02 6373 1435Email: [email protected] Web: www.saleyards.info

Livestock Saleyards Association of VictoriaPhone: 03 5286 8219 Email: [email protected] Web: www.lsav.com.au

Victorian Farmers FederationPhone: 1300 882 833 Email: [email protected] Web: www.vff.org.au

NSW Farmers AssociationPhone: 02 9478 1000 Email: [email protected] Web: www.nswfarmers.org.au

NSW WorkcoverPhone: 13 10 50 Email: [email protected] Web: www.workcover.nsw.gov.au

Cattle Council of AustraliaPhone: 02 6269 5600 Email: [email protected] Web: www.cattlecouncil.com.au

Safe Work AustraliaPhone: 1300 551 832 Email: [email protected] Web: www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au


WorkSafe VictoriaPhone: 03 9641 1444 Email: [email protected] Web: www.worksafe.vic.gov.au

ProWay Livestock EquipmentPhone: 1300 655 383 Email: [email protected] Web: www.proway.com.au

Australian Pork Limited Phone: 02 6285 2200 Email: [email protected] Web: www.australianpork.com.au

Meat and Livestock AustraliaPhone: 02 9463 9333 Email: [email protected] Web: www.mla.com.au

Australian Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development

Phone: 1800 075 001 Email: [email protected] Web: www.infrastructure.gov.au

Animals Angels AustraliaPhone: 0424 288 771Email: [email protected]: www.animals-angels.com

RSPCA Web: www.rspca.org.au

South East Australian Livestock Exporters Association Phone: 08 8527 2153 Email: [email protected]

Australian Livestock Export CouncilPhone: 02 9929 6755 Email: [email protected] Web: www.livecorp.com.au

Kattle Gear AustraliaPhone: 03 5442 3477Email: [email protected] Web: www.kattlegear.com.au

Thompson LonghornPhone: 07 4666 6174 Email: [email protected] Web: www.thompsonlonghorn.com.au

National Saleyards Quality Assurance Program standards

Phone: 0418 837 598 Email: [email protected] Web: www.nsqa.com.au

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APPENDIX F – SAFETY AUTHORITIES

ORGANISATION CONTACT DETAILS

Safe Work AustraliaPhone: 1300 551 832 Email: [email protected] Web: www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au

WorkSafe VictoriaPhone: 03 9641 1444 Email: [email protected] Web: www.worksafe.vic.gov.au

NSW WorkcoverPhone: 13 10 50 Email: [email protected] Web: www.workcover.nsw.gov.au

Worksafe ACTPhone: 02 6207 3000 Email: [email protected]: www.worksafe.act.gov.au

NT WorksafePhone: 1800 019 115Email: [email protected]: www.worksafe.nt.gov.au

Workplace Health and Safety Queensland Phone: 1300 362 128Web: www.worksafe.qld.gov.au

SafeWork SAPhone: 1300 365 255 Email: [email protected] Web: www.safework.sa.gov.au

WorkSafe TasmaniaPhone: 03 6166 4600 Email: [email protected] Web: www.worksafe.tas.gov.au

WorkSafe WAPhone: 08 9327 8777 Email: [email protected] Web: www.commerce.wa.gov.au/WorkSafe/


APPENDIX G – REFERENCE mATERIAL

Theguidedoesnotreplaceanystatutoryoraccreditationrequirementsthatmayapply.Itshouldbereadinconjunctionwith:

• VariousState/Territoryworkhealthandsafetylaws;• VariousState/Territorypreventionofcrueltytoanimalslaws;• HeavyVehicleNationalLaw;• BuildingCodeofAustralia;• AustralianStandardAS16572013:Fixed platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders – design,

construction and installation;• AustralianStandardAS1418.21997: Cranes (including hoists and winches) Part 2 Serial hoists

and winches;• AustralianStandardsforworkingatheights(various);• SafeWorkAustraliaguidanceforthesafedesign,manufacture,importandsupplyofplant;• Guidanceinformationtoidentifyhazardsandrisksassociatedwiththeinterfaceofpeopleand

livestock–LivestockandRuralTransportersAssociationofVictoria;• AustralianAnimalWelfareStandardsandGuidelinesforLivestockandSaleyardsandDepots

(proposed);• AustralianAnimalWelfareStandardsforLandTransportofLivestock;• TruckCare;• ALMACodeofPracticeforLivestockSaleyardsandLairages;• NationalSaleyardsQualityAssuranceProgramstandards;• GuidanceontheSafeHandlingofLivestockandMartsandLairages(Ireland);• RecommendedBasicLivestockHandling–DrTempleGrandin;and• RecommendedAnimalHandlingGuidelinesandAuditGuideforCattle,Pigs,andSheep–

AmericanMeatInstituteFoundation.

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APPENDIX H - ACKNOWLEDGEmENTS

ThisguidewasdevelopedbytheAustralianLivestockandRuralTransportersAssociationincooperationwithstakeholderswithinthelivestocksupplychain,communityandState,TerritoryandFederalGovernments.

Theextraordinarycontributionsofthefollowingpeopleandorganisationsarespecificallyacknowledged:

• JohnBeer• KevinSimmonds• LivestockandRuralTransportersAssociationofVictoria• AustralianLivestockandRuralTransportersAssociation• ProWayLivestockEquipment• WorkSafe Victoria• Safe Work Australia • LivestockSaleyardsAssociationofVictoria• CattleCouncilofAustralia• VictorianFarmersFederation• Beaurepaires


NOTES

Australian Livestock and Rural Transporters Association Phone: 02 6247 5434

Email: [email protected] Web: www.alrta.org.au


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