The welfare of workers in animal agriculture is connected to animal welfare, with workers in poorly regulated operations facing both ethical and physical risks.
The connection between animal welfare and worker welfare in animal agriculture is significant and often overlooked. Workers in slaughterhouses and factory farms face high physical injury rates and are frequently documented to develop psychological problems from prolonged exposure to animal suffering. The pressure to maintain production speed overrides both humane slaughter practices and worker safety. Research has found elevated rates of PTSD, aggression, and substance abuse in slaughterhouse workers compared to other blue-collar occupations. Improving animal welfare conditions — slowing lines, improving stunning, reducing crowding — would also improve conditions for workers. Strong ag-gag laws make documenting both animal and worker welfare violations more difficult.