Careful planning in designing new sheds or in renovating existing ones can greatly improve the efficiency of the wool harvesting operation; improve operator safety and reduce exertion.

Shearing sheds are costly to build. They are also extremely busy places and the focus of most sheep properties. In the past, they have tended to be largely single purpose sheds - used for just a few weeks each year.

More recently, shearing sheds have become multi-facetted so as to amortise the cost over a range of functions - from shearing, general sheep handling through to equipment storage etc.

Your situation

Firstly, closely examine your situation before you decide whether to renovate or build. Conroy & Hanrahan provide a summary of factors you should consider when deciding whether to renovate or build a new shed. 

Barber and Freeman also work through some examples (PDF 122Kb)of how to estimate operating costs, ownership costs and unit costs to assist decision making. While the figures are now out of date in relation to costs etc, the process of how to estimate these remains sound.

Driving forces

There is likely to be three driving forces that will be operating when you are considering whether to renovate or build a new shed. These are:

• Wanting to increase Productivity and thus reduce unit costs
• Concern about Occupational Health & Safety and Performance Ergonomics and
• Concern about Animal Welfare.

Shearing is very hard work. While employees may not expect lavish working conditions in a shearing shed environment it is imperative that they are provided with a clean, comfortable environment ion which to work and rest. Such consideration will encourage positive work attitudes which in turn will maximize productivity.

It is also incumbent upon the employer to have knowledge of the relevant legislation that may impact the type and extent of the facilities provided. These are listed in the Workcover links provided. In addition, in providing these files AWI strongly suggests that when considering alterations and/or building of a new shed that you consult with your local government authority and obtain appropriate engineering and building advice to conform with local and state regulations.

Shearing shed features

Features within the facility that need to be taken account of when considering renovating or building a new shearing shed include the location of the shed, lighting, ventilation and staff facilities. Find out more about each of these features.

Conroy & Hanrahan provide a summary of general area requirements (PDF 34Kb) for shearing sheds (pen sizes, shearing board space, wool room etc) and critical shed dimensions (PDF 47Kb).

See shearing shed images including saw-tooth boards and cathcing pens. 

Return to shearing shed guideline index.