AS 5340:2020 pdf download.Livestock loading/unloading ramps and forcing pens.
2.2 Vehicle access
2.2.1 General
Access should accommodate transport venicies tnat frequent the site.
2.2.2 Traffic flow
Entry and exit points for vehicles should minimize traffic hazards.
Commercial facilities should develop a traffic flow plan. The traffic flow should be free from dangerous obstructions such as power lines and trees.
A no-go zone should be observed between the loading ramp and vehicles reversing towards the loading ramp.
2.2.3 Approach
Vehicular approach to the ramp should be a level all-weather surface for both side and rear loading.
A line should be painted, or reflective material fitted, on concrete or bitumen road surfaces to assist this approach.
Vehicles should not be required to commence reversing on a public roadway.
Use of loading facilities should not block vehicle traffic flow either within the facility or on a public roadway.
NOTE The user of this Standard should refer to relevant Federal, State, and Territory regulations to determine legal requirements relating to public roadways, as applicable.
2.2.4 Ramp alignment with livestock crate
The floor of the ramp should align with the livestock crate floor/deck. This maybe achieved by aligning the vehicle with the ramp, and ensuring that the ramp is at a suitable height for the vehicle. The front face of the ramp should be parallel to the livestock crate door.
Extreme caution should be observed when working near trees and overhead power lines.
NOTE See the bibliography for guides to working near overhead powerlines. which cover safe clearances and
no-go zones.
2.3 Ramp surfaces and angle
2.3.1 Ramp surfaces
Ramps shall have no sharp or protruding objects.
Ramp floors shall not be see-through.
Ramp flooring and surfaces should be designed to maximize grip and minimize slipping and falling. To improve grip, slats or grooves should be used in the surface.
EXAMPLE 1 For large livestock, the surface should be non-slip, for example with cross cleats 40 mm to 50 mm wide spaced at 300 mm centres or, if concrete, have a suitable cross-grooved pattern to provide good footing when the ramp is wet.
EXAMPLE 2 For small livestock, the surface should be non-slip, for example with cross cleats 25 mm wide and high at 200 mm centres.
2.3.2 Ramp angle
The incline angle of a fixed ramp shall not exceed 20°.
The incline angle of an adjustable ramp shall not exceed 25°.
While the adjustable ramp angle may be up to 25°, the operator walkway angle shall be in accordance with AS 1657:2018.
A level area at the top of the ramp should be provided for large livestock (see Clause 2.16.3).
NOTE In general, the smaller the incline angle, the better the outcome for the livestock and handler.
2.4 Ramps, height of sidewalls and internal width
Loading ramp width should be determined by the type/species of livestock being handled.
Dump ramps should be wider than loading ramps to allow animals to turn around and provide for free animal movement.
The minimum internal width of a loading ramp should be 800 mm for large livestock, 900 mm for small livestock.
The minimum ramp wall heights should be 1700 mm for large livestock, 1000 mm for sheep, and 1200 mm for goats.AS 5340 pdf download.