Performing animal severing is a critical stage in leather technology, directly impacting the quality of raw hides and skins used in leather production. This process requires not only technical skill but also strict adherence to safety protocols to protect workers from occupational hazards. In Kenya, where leather processing is a significant industry supporting smallholder farmers and exporters alike, maintaining high standards of occupational health and safety during animal flaying ensures sustainable operations and compliance with regulatory frameworks.

1.1 Occupational Health and Safety

Occupational health and safety (OHS) in animal severing involves implementing measures that prevent injuries and illnesses among workers who handle sharp tools and biological materials. In Kenyan leather processing facilities, OHS safeguards the workforce from zoonotic infections, physical injuries, and chemical exposures common in flaying and hide preparation. Understanding and applying OHS principles reduces downtime, improves morale, and aligns with national laws such as the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) of Kenya.

1.1.1 Hazards Associated with Animal Severing

Animal severing exposes workers to multiple hazards that can cause physical injury or health complications. Recognizing these hazards is the first step toward effective prevention.

Physical Hazards

• Sharp Tools and Cutting Injuries: Flaying requires knives and other cutting implements, which pose risks of lacerations and puncture wounds if mishandled or improperly maintained. For example, a butcher at a county abattoir may suffer deep cuts if the knife slips due to poor grip or dullness.
• Slippery Surfaces: Blood and fat residues on floors create slip and fall risks, especially in wet processing environments like meat markets or leather collection centers.
• Heavy Lifting: Handling large carcasses or hides can lead to musculoskeletal injuries if proper lifting techniques are not observed.

Biological Hazards

• Zoonotic Diseases: Contact with animal blood, tissues, and fluids can transmit diseases such as anthrax, brucellosis, or leptospirosis to workers. For instance, workers in livestock-rich counties like Nakuru must be vigilant against such infections.
• Pathogenic Microorganisms: Exposure to bacteria and fungi on hides can cause skin infections or respiratory issues if inhaled as aerosols.

Chemical Hazards

• Disinfectants and Cleaning Agents: Use of strong chemicals for sanitizing tools and surfaces can cause skin irritation or respiratory problems if appropriate protective gear is not worn.

Ergonomic Hazards

• Repetitive Motions: Continuous cutting and flaying motions may cause repetitive strain injuries, affecting tendons and muscles in the hands and arms.

1.1.2 Preventive Measures and Safety Practices

Implementing preventive controls minimizes risks associated with animal severing. Safety practices must be embedded in daily routines and supported by management policies.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Cut-resistant Gloves: Wearing gloves made from materials like Kevlar protects hands from knife injuries.
• Aprons and Protective Clothing: Waterproof aprons shield workers from blood and fluids, reducing contamination and skin exposure.
• Safety Boots: Non-slip, steel-toed boots prevent foot injuries and slips on wet floors.
• Eye Protection: Goggles guard against splashes of blood or chemicals during processing.

Tool Maintenance and Handling

• Regular Sharpening: Keeping knives sharp reduces the force needed for cutting, lowering accident risks.
• Proper Storage: Tools should be stored safely when not in use to avoid accidental cuts.
• Training on Correct Use: Workers must be trained to hold and maneuver knives correctly to maintain control.

Workplace Hygiene and Environmental Controls

• Routine Cleaning: Frequent removal of blood and waste prevents slippery surfaces and microbial growth.
• Adequate Lighting and Ventilation: Well-lit and ventilated workspaces enhance visibility and reduce inhalation of harmful fumes.
• Ergonomic Workstations: Adjustable tables and supports reduce strain during repetitive tasks.

Health Monitoring and First Aid

• Regular Medical Check-ups: Monitoring workers for signs of infection or injury enables early intervention.
• On-site First Aid: Accessible first aid kits and trained personnel ensure prompt response to injuries.

1.1.3 Legal and Regulatory Frameworks Governing OHS in Animal Severing

Kenya’s legal environment mandates compliance with occupational safety standards to protect workers in the leather processing sector. Understanding these frameworks is essential for professionals managing animal flaying operations.

Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA), 2007

• Employer Responsibilities: Employers must provide safe working conditions, conduct risk assessments, and supply necessary PPE.
• Employee Duties: Workers are required to follow safety instructions and report hazards.
• Enforcement and Penalties: The Directorate of Occupational Safety and Health Services (DOSHS) conducts inspections and can impose fines or shutdowns for non-compliance.

Public Health Act

• Sanitation Requirements: Facilities must maintain cleanliness to prevent disease transmission.
• Waste Disposal Regulations: Proper disposal of animal waste and by-products is mandated to protect public health.

Environmental Management and Coordination Act (EMCA)

• Pollution Control: Limits emissions of biological waste into the environment during processing.
• Licensing: Leather processing units must obtain environmental impact assessments and licenses.

Standards from Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS)

• Guidelines for PPE and Equipment: KEBS sets quality standards ensuring protective gear and tools meet safety criteria.

1.1.4 Training and Capacity Building in Occupational Health and Safety

Continuous training empowers workers with knowledge and skills to maintain safety during animal severing, enhancing operational efficiency and compliance.

Induction Training

• New employees receive orientation on workplace hazards, safe tool handling, and emergency procedures.

Skills Development Workshops

• Regular sessions update workers on best practices, new safety technologies, and regulatory changes.

Simulation Drills

• Practical exercises prepare staff for accident scenarios such as cuts or chemical spills, improving response times.

Supervisory and Peer Support

• Experienced supervisors monitor adherence to safety protocols and mentor junior staff.
• Peer accountability encourages a culture of safety and mutual care.

Record Keeping and Reporting

• Documentation of incidents and near misses facilitates analysis and continuous improvement of safety measures.

Chapter Summary

This chapter has examined the critical aspects of performing animal severing with a strong emphasis on occupational health and safety to protect workers from injury and illness. It highlighted the potential hazards present in the workplace, including biological, physical, and mechanical risks that must be carefully managed. The importance of using appropriate personal protective equipment to reduce exposure to these hazards was underscored, alongside measures to ensure the safety of others in the vicinity. Job requirements specific to the severing task were discussed, focusing on the necessary skills and knowledge for safe and effective performance. Proper identification, operation, storage, and maintenance of severing tools and equipment were covered to maintain efficiency and prolong tool life. Detailed severing procedures were outlined to guide workers through safe and hygienic practices. Finally, the chapter addressed relevant trade acts and legal requirements that regulate animal severing activities, ensuring compliance with industry standards and protecting both workers and consumers.