Workforce injuries from Cattle

Scotland's Railway Safety Bulletin

Whilst working on a boundary fence near Beattock a member of the team was charged by a cow, causing them to slip. The animal then proceeded to trample on them, causing injuries to their head and face.
Their colleague who was working approximately 40 yards away immediately jumped into their vehicle and drove towards the animal, sounding their horn to chase it away and in doing so prevented further injury.
The team member suffered several facial injuries and was immediately taken to hospital. It was confirmed that he had a fractured eye socket, fractured nose, and required 8 stitches to their face.

Learning Points:

• Always ensure livestock are cleared from fields through discussion with landowners at planning stage and on the day of works.
• Always conduct visual checks of the whole area before entering and starting work.
• Ensure if you are responding to an incident that the area is safe for you to do so.