Australian Trials: 99% Slip Reduction Achieved
The Gist:
- First sheep trials in pre-export yards and aboard vessels showed zero major falls across all mat types.
- Slips dropped by 96-100% for sheep; 99% reduction for cattle.
- Numat rubber mats, widely adopted in Beef, dairy and equine setups, deliver superior grip over, mesh or grooved concrete.
- Easy install, clean, and stable – cuts maintenance and boosts hygiene.
- Global interest is rising, with tests now in Indonesia.
Getting a grip on livestock safety
The livestock export industry has taken a big step forward with rubber matting. This innovative solution boosts animal welfare by cutting slips, falls, and reducing injuries. Recent trials, including the first ones with sheep, proved it works in pre-export facilities and on ships.
Agri-consultant Carl Archer from Numat highlights the gains for the sheep sector. Producers showed strong interest in these results. Numat mats already serve equine facilities, dairy farms, and cattle feedlots across Australia. These trials confirm their value extends to sheep.
The project falls under the Livestock Export Program (LEP). This open innovation effort draws from other industries to adapt proven tech for livestock exports. LEP is a joint initiative by Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) and LiveCorp. It focuses on practical solutions that enhance welfare and efficiency.
In Western Australia, teams tested seven rubber matting types. They installed them in ramps, corridors at pre-export quarantine sites, and on a livestock ship. The mats outperformed traditional options like wood shavings, stamped concrete, and steel mesh. Their superior grip made a clear difference during handling and transit.
All mat types stopped major falls and slips for both cattle and sheep. For sheep, every mat eliminated falls completely. Five types prevented all slips, while the other two cut slips by 96 percent. One mat type tested on cattle stopped falls and reduced slips by 99 percent. These outcomes show rubber matting delivers reliable safety.
Beyond grip, the trials checked other practical aspects. Ease of installation stood out, allowing quick setup without disrupting operations. Cleaning proved straightforward, supporting high hygiene standards in busy facilities. Stability ensured the mats stayed in place over time, maintaining performance under heavy use.
Australian farmers gain from this tech’s proven ROI. Reduced injuries mean fewer vet bills and better animal health. Healthier livestock flow smoother through yards and onto ships, speeding up processes. This cuts stress for animals and handlers alike. Numat’s mats, made from durable recycled rubber, last long and lower maintenance costs.
The success of the Australian-based trials has gained international interest
The trials’ success sparked global attention. Indonesian partners tested the mats at Lampung port on a discharge ramp, in a cattle truck, and at a feedlot loading ramp. Positive feedback there opens doors for wider use in export chains.
This approach shows the industry’s smart thinking. By borrowing from dairy and equine sectors, livestock exports build on what works. It strengthens Australia’s reputation for top welfare standards. Rubber matting sets a new benchmark for safety and care.
Cross-sector collaboration drives real progress. MLA, LiveCorp, and providers like Numat prove teamwork yields results. These mats could soon become standard in more facilities, benefiting sheep, cattle, and the bottom line.
Numat stands ready to help Australian producers adopt this solution. Their mats protect animals, save time, and boost productivity. Farmers focused on welfare and efficiency see clear value here.
The future looks solid with innovations like this. Rubber matting tackles key challenges head-on. It ensures livestock move safely from farm to export. This trial’s outcomes pave the way for broader adoption across the red meat industry.
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