Farm Safety & Emergency Preparedness
Horse Handling Safety Checklist
A horse handling safety checklist for owners and riders to check tack, footing, helmets, barn habits, and horse behavior before working around horses.
Download free PDF1 page, US Letter, prints clean in black and white
ChecklistFarm Safety & Emergency PreparednessFree PDF
What is on this checklist
- Helmet and boots worn
- Halter and lead in good shape
- Tack fits and is sound
- Footing clear and safe
- Approach from the side
- Tie with a quick release
- Avoid standing behind the horse
- Gates latched behind you
- Know the horse's habits
- Emergency plan known
How to use this checklist
Work down the list in the same order each time so nothing gets skipped. Anything marked FIX should be handled before the job starts and written down.
Where to check the details
This sheet is a general template, so confirm specifics with your own manuals, labels and local rules. For current official guidance, start with eXtension and OSHA.
For more in this area, see the Farm Safety. Between chores, farm.FM has farm humor, including Ranch Bronc Riding Safety Seminar Canceled When Horse Eats Waiver, and farming farm stories.