Chapter 4. Safety In the Barn
Keep floors & walkways clean
Keep the floor around the cross ties, wash racks, and grooming areas clean and tidy. Horses can get tangled and spooked by debris and ropes on the floor.
Cross ties should have safety release snaps
Cross ties should have safety release snaps that will release if a horse gets spooked and pulls away with enough force to detach the clips.
Flames not allowed
No smoking or open flames near the barn.
Have a fire plan and practice it.
Access to fire extinguishers
Fire extinguishers should be available near exits, in middle of long aisles, and near electrical panels.
Have access to first aid kits
First aid kids should be available for both horses and people.
Emergency phone numbers
Emergency phone numbers should be posted where everyone can see them.
Trash Cans Should be Accessible
For easy disposal of garbage.
Pick up trash and debris
Trash left out is unsightly, it attracts rodents and bugs, can aid in the spread of fire, and could cause injuries to horses and people.
Do Not Use Extension Cords Permanently
Extension cords can be a fire hazard and should only be used temporarily and then put away.
Lead Ropes available
Hang lead ropes at each barn entry so they are accessible in case of an emergency.
Remove cobwebs
Spiderwebs are an electrical fire hazard risk.
Store Gasoline & Chemicals In a Separate Building
To reduce the risk of poisoning or catching fire.
Store Supplies Safely
Store rakes and pitchforks hanging on a wall with the tines pointed towards the wall in order to keep a horse or person from stepping on them, or getting caught on them and causing injury. Store supplies out of reach of horses in order to reduce the risk of injury.
Store Tack Safely
Tack rooms should have racks and storage areas in order to keep tack off the floor and out of path of traffic.
Store Feed Safely
Horse feed should be stored in water proof containers that keep horses and rodents out. Post a feed chart that communicates what each horse eats and when. If moisture gets into the feed it can cause mold. Sweep up any spilled grain to avoid attracting rodents.
Store Hay Safely
Don’t buy or store wet hay and make sure hay is stored where it can’t get wet. Moldy hay can cause breathing problems in horses.
Store hay away from electrical outlets and heat sources to reduce the possibility of fire.
Stack hay and bedding carefully so that it will not topple on top of anyone.
Doorways & Aisles Clear
Doorways and aisles should be free from protruding objects such as nails and wires. These could injure passing horses and people.
Safe Flooring
Floors should be clean and provide enough traction that horses and people do not slip.
Good Drainage
Wash stalls should have good drainage to prevent wet or icy floors.
Hoses Coiled Neatly
Hoses need to be properly coiled when not in use so horses don’t trip or get tangled.
Waterproof Electric Switches
Electrical switches should be enclosed in waterproof coverings to reduce risk of electric shock.
Install lightning rods
Install lightning rods on the barn roof to reduce risk of a fire caused by lightning.