Barn Safety - Manitoba Pork Council

“If injected these chemicals can cause abortion in humans”
Needles, or “sharps”, are common throughout agricultural and health care sectors and
with advancements in technology; needle safe devices are becoming more prevalent.
Needle sticks can occur because of unsafe needles, or because of improper handling or
disposal techniques. Employees should use the utmost care when handling needles or
sharps in their workplace. A few suggestions to prevent needle sticks include:
• Develop procedures dealing with the safe injection of animals.
• Using needles that employ safety features to prevent needle sticks or punctures.
• Ensure the animal is restrained before giving any injection.
• Do not recap used needles while holding the cap in the other hand. Recapping
should not be done unless there is no other feasible option.
• Connect the needle and catheter to a “slapshot,” or a flexible piece of tubing
approximately 45-61 cm (18-24 inches) in length which allows the animal to move
more without pulling our the catheter..
• Used needles or sharps should be disposed of immediately after use in an approved
sharps container.
• Have sharps containers ready at all times when injecting.
• Any needle sticks should be reported to the supervisor and appropriate
documentation, medical follow up and company procedures thoroughly followed.
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In the case of accidental injection:
• Clean the area with water and antiseptic soap.
• Find and read the MSDS and package insert for the product injected.
• If a local reaction such as swelling or itching occurs, rest and elevate the affected
area.
• Seek prompt medical attention. Bring the package insert with you.
• Phone a poison control hotline. In Manitoba, the Poison Control Center phone
number is 1-800-267-1373.
When disposing of sharps, the containers must be:
• Sealable, puncture-resistant, and leak-proof on sides and bottom.
• Accessible, maintained upright, and not allowed to overfill.
• Labeled or color-coded for easy identification.