Cattle Producers guide to COVID-19, minimising the risk
With Jamima Jamieson
Despite much of the country going into near lock-down to combat the spread of COVID-19, for many farmers, it's business as usual. At times we have to be reminded as farmers that we are still at risk to the virus, and should be doing our part to minimise the spread.
AACo is a company that is leading the way when it comes to COVID-19, by publicising their new policies to tackle the pandemic. These policies have been implemented to keep their staff, families and company safe.
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Where's the risk?
Attending sale yards, working with contractors, dealing with truck drivers and meeting up with stock agents are all things that increase the risk of exposure to COVID-19. Whilst these activities are integral to our operations, steps to minimise these risks can be achieved simply with minimal fuss.
Actions we can take to minimise the risk of exposure to COVID-19
Hygiene, communication and social distancing
- Maintaining a social distance of 1.5m
- Regularly clean and disinfect shared vehicles and appliances
- Wash hands thoroughly before coming into the meal room
- Openly communicate with all staff about COVID-19, sickness and travel
Steps to take with staff and contractors
- Allowing off-farm staff to work independently
- On-boarding new staff with a 14-day quarantine
- Keeping work teams separate where possible
- Use a livestock management software like Mobble to connect with staff, while being apart
What Should Cattle Producers Expect Going Forward?
Farmers must be planning for the future:
- Be prepared for auctions to be moved online
- Be prepared for further travel restrictions
- Tighter compliance and increrased auditing... Using a livestock farm management app like Mobble allows you to easily record your chemical inventory, meaning NVDs are no worries.
On our family farm in South West Victoria, we’ll be taking these steps on-board so we can collectively get back to normality as quick as possible.
Below there are a few more useful links on COVID-19 for farmers, otherwise, stay safe and wash your hands :)
Jamima Jamieson
Farmer Communications (Livestock Farm Management Software, Mobble)
OTHER USEFUL LINKS