Work environment safety and ergonomics at the dairy
Chemistry, machines, cold, heat and the body — how to take care of yourself in dairy production
A dairy is an exciting but also demanding workplace. There is heat in pasteurisation cold in storage strong cleaning agents large machines and floors that are often wet. Safety and a good working environment is therefore not something you think about occasionally — it is part of how you work every day.
§Chemistry and cleaning
Cleaning takes up a lot in a dairy, and often happens with strong acids and bases in closed systems called CIP (cleaning in place). You learn to handle the chemicals safely, read safety labels, use protective equipment and understand why you never mix agents haphazardly. Incorrect handling of cleaning chemicals is one of the biggest risks in the profession.
§Machines and processes
The dairy is full of pumps, separators, homogenisers and packaging machines, and many processes run under pressure or at high temperature. You learn how to work safely around machines, when something must be stopped and secured before you enter it, and why fixed procedures must not be bypassed, even when you are busy.
- 01Hot surfaces and steam during pasteurization and heating.
- 02Pressure in systems and pipes — vent and secure before opening.
- 03Movable parts in pumps, stirrers and packaging lines.
- 04Smooth, wet floors — slip-resistant footwear and continuous cleanup.
§Cold, heat and noise
You move between hot production areas and cold storage, and some places have noise from machines. It makes demands on clothing and on wearing hearing protection where necessary. Moving between temperatures during a shift is part of everyday life, and it's something you get used to dressing sensibly for.
§Ergonomics — take care of your body.
There is lifting repeated movements and quite a bit of time on your feet in a dairy. If you want to stay in the trade for many years it is important to learn to lift correctly use the aids available and vary your work postures. Good ergonomics is about protecting your back shoulders and knees so small strains do not become lasting injuries.
“The best dairy farmer is the one who is still healthy and happy with the trade after twenty years.”