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Click to view all POULTRY WELFARE

Key – Those standards which have greater significance (all other standards are normal)

Recommendation – Those which do not affect certification

New – A completely new standard which the member must now adhere to

Revised – A standard that has changed and requires the member to take some different or additional action to before

Upgraded – The standard has been upgraded to a Key standard or from a Recommendation to a full standard

Appendix – Referenced in ‘How you will be measured’. Indicates that additional information is provided in the Appendices, which are available at the end of each section.

This icon indicates that a record is required.

Where to find help – at the end of each section we have indicated where you can get extra guidance if you need it.

Aim:

POULTRY WELFARE

MP.PW.1

Standards

A poultry welfare policy for the site is documented and communicated (Revised)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.1.a

A documented policy outlines the sites objectives with regards to achieving and delivering standards of bird welfare and conforming to the scheme standard and relevant legislation

MP.PW.1.b

Policy signed off by relevant senior management

MP.PW.1.c

Policy communicated to persons associated with live birds including catching and transport companies lairage staff and slaughterers e.g. through training, posters, work instructions, staff handbook

MP.PW.1.d

The policy is reviewed annually (demonstrated with a signed and dated review) and kept up-to-date

Policy

MP.PW.2

Standards

Animal Welfare Officer(s) (AWO) must be on-site during operational hours and hold overall responsibility for poultry welfare on the site (Revised)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.2.a

A documented management structure identifies those fulfilling the role

MP.PW.2.b

A documented procedure details the responsibilities of the AWO including the need to keep a record of action/s taken to improve poultry welfare in the slaughterhouse

MP.PW.2.c

AWO(s): - hold appropriate Certificates of Competence for the species and operations they are responsible for - have sufficient authority and competence to provide guidance to personnel that manage poultry on-site - have sufficient authority to make decisions to safeguard bird welfare

Management structure/ organogram
Record of action/s taken to improve poultry welfare

MP.PW.3

Standards

There must be a sufficient number of competent persons working within the lairage and slaughter areas during operational hours to care for and handle birds

How you will be measured

MP.PW.3.a

During operational hours, competent persons oversee/ undertake unloading, lairaging, ante-mortem inspections and slaughter

MP.PW.3.b

Competent persons may include deputies to the AWO

MP.PW.3.c

Arrangements are in place to ensure sufficient people are present during holidays/ sick leave

MP.PW.4

Standards

Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) must be in place for each operation from animal intake to confirmation of death (New)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.4.a

Checks must be made that procedures are followed

MP.PW.4.b

Updates are introduced when new or changes to processes or procedure are introduced

MP.PW.4.c

Includes the maximum line speed at which birds can be put through to stun/kill or stun point, humanely slaughtered and checks carried out.

MP.PW.5

Standards

All staff involved in the care, handling and monitoring of birds must be trained and competent

How you will be measured

MP.PW.5.a

As required by legislation, persons that are responsible for, monitor or undertake the following roles, hold a Certificate of Competence relevant to the species: - the unloading of birds (or crates) - the handling and care of birds before they are restrained - the restraint of birds for stunning or killing - the shackling of birds - the stunning of birds - the assessment of effective stunning - the bleeding of live birds and monitoring the absence of signs of life

MP.PW.5.b

Staff have been trained to procedures relevant to their roles. Training may include Certificate of Competence training delivered in house by an official training provider or by external training providers

Training records

MP.PW.6

Standards

The Animal Welfare Officer (S) (AWO) must have completed an external source of training (New)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.6.a

External training is in addition to Certificate of Competence training

MP.PW.7

Standards

The ongoing performance of staff who care for and handle birds must be internally monitored and training updates or refresher training given as required (Revised)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.7.a

Training needs and assessment for each role are established

MP.PW.7.b

Employee training needs are reviewed on a risk assessed frequency and where necessary additional training is given and comtetency assessed

Training record

MP.PW.8

Standards

Systems must be in place to ensure appropriate, competent persons are contactable out of operational hours

How you will be measured

MP.PW.8.a

Person(s) contactable in the event of a problem/ emergency

MP.PW.8.b

The point of contact is a n AWO or is a competent member of staff who can contact an AWO at any time

Signs/ contact numbers

MP.PW.9

Standards

The AWO(s) must have access to a copy of the regulations and best practice recommendations relating to protecting the welfare of animals at the time of killing

How you will be measured

MP.PW.9.a

Access to up-to-date copies of industry codes of practice/publications on stunning and killing

MP.PW.10

Standards

The relevant person must contact Red Tractor and their Certification Body immediately if a serious incident or emergency situation affects or threatens to affect the welfare of birds e.g. line breakdown (Revised)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.10.a

In an emergency situation affecting poultry welfare, the official veterinarian (OV) and/or AWO is contacted first as a priority

MP.PW.10.b

Where a serious incident or emergency results, or is predicted to result (e.g. stocking density), in a breach to a RT standard and/or legislation, Red Tractor is immediately informed if product from affected birds is destined to be packed with a Red Tractor claim

MP.PW.11

Standards

Persistent and recurring welfare incidents (poor performance) relating to a Red Tractor Assured farm and/or catching or transport member is reported to Red Tractor (New)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.11.a

Poor performance includes recurring welfare incidents of birds from the same farm or caught and transported by the same catching or transport company which are: - dirty - dead on arrival (exceeding limits outlined in PW.29) - poor condition - injured/open wounds - trappages

MP.PW.12

Standards

Welfare Outcome scoring must be undertaken and recorded on Red Tractor Assured chicken, turkey and ducks (as applicable) (Revised)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.12.a

For Ducks: - Welfare outcome scoring is undertaken as per the Red Tractor Protocol detailed in the relevant Appendix - All Welfare Outcomes for a farm are reported back to the grower of that farm - All Welfare Outcomes are reported to Red Tractor

Duck Welfare Outcome scoring records

MP.PW.13

Standards

Welfare Outcome scoring is undertaken on Red Tractor Assured chicken and turkey (as applicable) as per the Red Tractor Protocol (New)

MP.PW.14

Standards

The lairage must be designed and constructed to meet the thermal requirements of birds (Revised)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.14.a

The lairage provides protection in adverse weather and birds are screened from direct sunlight

MP.PW.14.b

The lairage is ventilated to minimise high humidity and to maintain temperature. The lairage is designed to encourage air flow

MP.PW.14.c

The lairage design avoids birds getting wet from the lorry wash

MP.PW.15

Standards

Ventilation systems must be maintained and alarms regularly tested

How you will be measured

MP.PW.15.a

Ventilation systems maintained and effective

MP.PW.15.b

Where ventilation is controlled mechanically, alarms and emergency backup systems are in place to notify failures

MP.PW.15.c

Alarms are tested every seven days

MP.PW.16

Standards

In the event of ventilation equipment failure, contingency plans and corrective actions must be implemented

How you will be measured

MP.PW.16.a

When contingency criteria have been met, emergency back-up systems are implemented

MP.PW.16.b

Corrective actions may include repairs

MP.PW.17

Standards

Systems for forecasting risks of temperature stress to birds in the lairage environment must be used

How you will be measured

MP.PW.17.a

Forecasting or horizon scanning for weather extremes, adverse climatic conditions enable preventative action to be undertaken

MP.PW.18

Standards

Systems must be in place to regularly monitor and record the temperature and humidity of the lairage and birds’ environment (Revised)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.18.a

Monitoring applies to both the lairage environment and the birds’ immediate environment within crates

MP.PW.18.b

Monitoring includes cross-checking the recorded temperatures against a species specific (e.g. chicken, turkey), thermal comfort zone chart at the time the temperature is taken

MP.PW.18.c

Monitoring is undertaken at a frequency as defined by a documented procedure (but at least daily)

Temperature records. Thermal comfort zone chart

MP.PW.19

Standards

Where forecasting or monitoring identifies a risk of humidity or temperature stress, preventative or corrective action must be implemented to protect bird welfare

How you will be measured

MP.PW.19.a

Documented procedures/ contingency plans detail preventative actions (in the case of forecasting) or corrective actions (in the case of monitoring)

MP.PW.19.b

The documented procedures clearly identify the critical limits/ trigger points at which action needs to be taken to safeguard welfare

MP.PW.19.c

Where forecasting predicts a risk, the preventative actions undertaken are recorded

MP.PW.19.d

Where monitoring identifies a risk, the root cause must be determined and corrective actions implemented, recorded and reported to the AWO

Documented procedures

MP.PW.20

Standards

The lairage must be designed to allow ease of movement of crates and modules (Revised)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.20.a

The floor is well maintained to prevent bouncing and jarring

MP.PW.20.b

Driving is smooth and of a speed that allows birds to remain calm at rest

MP.PW.21

Standards

Birds must not be subjected to avoidable, excessive or sudden noises

How you will be measured

MP.PW.21.a

Sharp/ sudden or hissing noises are eliminated from the lairage environment

MP.PW.22

Standards

The lairage must be suitably lit

How you will be measured

MP.PW.22.a

The lairage lighting is subdued to allow birds to rest, but is capable of being lit allowing inspection of birds

MP.PW.23

Standards

The lairage must be constructed and maintained in a manner that enables effective cleansing and disinfection (Revised)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.23.a

Lairage walls and floors are complete with a washable finish

MP.PW.23.b

No pooling of water

MP.PW.24

Standards

The lairage must be cleansed and disinfected regularly to minimise contamination (Revised)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.24.a

Dedicated facilities are available in the lairage area to do this

MP.PW.24.b

The lairage is thoroughly cleansed and disinfected at least weekly

MP.PW.24.c

No evidence of dried or built up faecal matter

MP.PW.25

Standards

A daily, visual check of the facilities used for live birds must be carried out by a competent member of staff, prior to the start of the day’s kill

How you will be measured

MP.PW.25.a

A visual check includes the lairage, shackling and stunning/ slaughter system

MP.PW.25.b

Visual check of lairage may be undertaken at clean-down

MP.PW.25.c

If the visual check identifies an issue, corrective action is implemented

MP.PW.25.d

Where there is a risk to bird welfare the issue is addressed immediately, recorded and reported to an animal welfare officer and where necessary production is halted until the problem is resolved or the affected area is not used

MP.PW.26

Standards

Systems must be in place to ensure that birds are held in the lairage for the minimum time possible

How you will be measured

MP.PW.26.a

Birds are placed in the lairage as soon as possible and are held in the lairage for a maximum of six hours

MP.PW.26.b

The order in which birds are unloaded/ killed ensures the time is not exceeded

MP.PW.26.c

In emergency situations (e.g. line breakdown) where the time is likely to be exceeded, the emergency procedures are implemented

MP.PW.26.d

Turkeys are given a period of acclimatisation (minimum 30 minutes) in order to settle prior to stunning and killing. The acclimatisation period never exceeds the maximum lairage time of six hours

MP.PW.26.e

Emergency procedures: - have considered possible postponement of catching to prevent further birds arriving during a breakdown period - has considered provision of feed and water for birds if withdrawal of feed exceeds 12 hours

MP.PW.27

Standards

A record of information for each load of birds is available (Revised)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.27.a

A record for each load is held and includes: - Date and time of bird arrival - Time of hanging or entry into a gas system - Dead on Arrivals (DOAs) - Birds culled on arrival/whilst resident in the lairage - Daily cumulative mortality rate - House number - Breed type - Time from first bird caught on farm to last bird killed at the factory - Transport time excluding loading /unloading - Number of non-stuns/kills, reasons and actions taken if necessary - Time catch on farm started

MP.PW.27.b

Information recorded allows for feed and water withdrawal times to be easily calculated

MP.PW.27.c

Information recorded on the Animal Transport Certificate, Food Chain Information (FCI) or similar

MP.PW.27.d

The record is visible/ easily accessible to relevant staff

Flock arrival and killing records

MP.PW.28

Standards

A system must be in place to check Animal Transport Certificates (ATCs) and Food Chain Information (FCI) are complete and contain all required information (New)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.28.a

Missing information is investigated

MP.PW.29

Standards

If DOA numbers exceed 1% for chickens, 0.2% for turkeys and 0.2% for ducks in a single load of birds, the root cause established and correction action undertaken (Revised)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.29.a

A record of the issue, root cause and corrective action taken is kept

MP.PW.30

Standards

A system must be in place to check the health and welfare of poultry that come onto site (Revised)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.30.a

Food chain information and veterinary documentation is assessed for each flock

MP.PW.30.b

A sample of crates are inspected to check bird condition, behaviour and stocking density on arrival

MP.PW.30.c

A sample of crates are regularly inspected for bird condition and behaviour during a flock’s time in the lairage. The inspection equipment allows for observation of birds at the top of vehicles

MP.PW.30.d

Records of checks are kept

Crate inspection records, Food Chain Information

MP.PW.31

Standards

Systems must be in place to check birds for signs of injury and fitness before stunning and killing (Revised)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.31.a

All birds electrically stunned or killed are visually checked at hanging on

MP.PW.32

Standards

Prompt appropriate action is undertaken in the event of health or welfare concerns being identified in the poultry checks

How you will be measured

MP.PW.32.a

Appropriate action taken to reduce stress, pain and suffering

MP.PW.32.b

Actions to be taken are agreed with the AWO

MP.PW.32.c

Relevant staff understand the actions to be taken in the event of birds arriving unfit or becoming unfit whilst on-site

MP.PW.33

Standards

Birds that require emergency killing must be dealt with immediately by a competent person according to the sites documented procedure

How you will be measured

MP.PW.33.a

• The site has documented procedures for: - culling of individual birds that need culling e.g. as a result of being trapped - culling of modules or whole loads

MP.PW.33.b

The procedure outlines the action to be undertaken in relevant circumstances, identifies any equipment to be used and confirms birds are not place on the processing line until after stunning

MP.PW.33.c

The methods used are as defined in the Appendix

MP.PW.34

Standards

Staff handling birds must be trained and competent

How you will be measured

MP.PW.34.a

Staff have been trained to understand the good welfare practices relevant to their role

MP.PW.34.b

Staff use handling techniques that reduce stress, including wing flapping at hanging on

MP.PW.35

Standards

Modules and crates are unloaded in a careful manner

How you will be measured

MP.PW.35.a

Modules and crates are handled with care - forklifts move smoothly and do not brake suddenly - modules are not tilted, dropped or overturned - modules are lowered/ raised gently

MP.PW.36

Standards

Modules and crates are positioned or stacked appropriately

How you will be measured

MP.PW.36.a

Modules and crates are stable

MP.PW.36.b

Modules are positioned in such a way ventilation is not reduced

MP.PW.36.c

Only crates of suitable design are stacked on top of one another i.e. the design limits faecal matter dropping onto birds beneath

MP.PW.37

Standards

Systems must be in place to minimise the risk of birds escaping (Revised)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.37.a

Systems minimise escape from the lairage, hanging on area or shackles

MP.PW.37.b

Escaped birds are recaptured immediately, handled appropriately and re-hung (electrical stunning system) or placed back in a crate (CAS system) humanely culled if injured

MP.PW.38

Standards

Red Tractor Enhanced Welfare Assured birds must not be electrically stunned/killed where live inversion is practiced (New)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.38.a

All Red Tractor Enhanced Welfare Assured birds are stunned/killed by controlled atmosphere stunning (CAS) using inert gas or multi-phase systems in accordance with the scheme standards

MP.PW.38.b

Electrical stunning is only permitted without live inversion

MP.PW.39

Standards

Birds must be handled appropriately at electrical stunning and killing points (Revised)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.39.a

Line speeds enable staff to handle birds correctly

MP.PW.39.b

The system used is appropriate to the size of the bird e.g. small birds that could fall/ miss the stunning bath are not shackled

MP.PW.39.c

Large birds weighing more than 15kg liveweight are not shackled whilst conscious

MP.PW.39.d

Shackles used are of the correct type and size for the birds being hung on and birds are located properly into the shackle and hung by both legs

MP.PW.39.e

Shackles are wet

MP.PW.39.f

Shackle lines are fitted with breast comforters (rubber or plastic curtain) at the point of hang on through to the stun bath

MP.PW.39.g

Shackle lines to the stun bath are smooth, have no sharp turns or obstructions, the shackles do not jolt

MP.PW.39.h

The maximum live bird hang on time is: - 60 seconds for chicken - 120 seconds for turkeys - 120 seconds for ducks

MP.PW.39.i

The hang on area is lit with blue or green lighting

MP.PW.39.j

The feet from the previous bird are removed prior to a new bird being hung on

MP.PW.39.k

If the slaughter line is stopped for longer than 120 seconds, birds between the point of shackling and the stunning point must be humanely killed immediately using a permitted back-up method (as detailed in the relevant appendix)

MP.PW.40

Standards

Bleeding without prior stunning is prohibited on birds/product sold with a Red Tractor Assured claim (Revised)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.40.a

For birds to retain their Red Tractor Assurance status, they are stunned and then exsanguinated (bled) in accordance with current legislation, best practice guidelines and the site's standard operating procedures

MP.PW.40.b

Stunning is effective in ensuring unconsciousness until death supervenes through exsanguination

MP.PW.40.c

The site procedures outline the stunning and killing requirements for all types and weights of birds

MP.PW.40.d

The methods outlined in the Appendix are used

MP.PW.40.e

For each method used, specific parameters outlined in the relevant Appendix are adhered to

Standard Operating Procedures

MP.PW.41

Standards

Electrical stunning equipment is designed to ensure an effective stun (Revised)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.41.a

Stunning equipment checked prior to each kill and problems preventing effective stun rectified prior to the start of slaughter

MP.PW.41.b

The voltage and current is clearly visible to those operating or monitoring the process and a warning must be easily seen and heard

MP.PW.41.c

In the case of electric waterbaths, where birds are stunned in groups, the voltage and current are sufficient to ensure all birds are adequately stunned

MP.PW.41.d

The electrode that is immersed in the water extends the length of the waterbath

MP.PW.41.e

The design and set up: - prevents birds receiving pre-stun shocks - prevents flying over the water bath so birds are unstunned - results in the birds' head only (no other part of the body) entering the water first

MP.PW.41.f

For ducks, there is a steeply inclined flat ramp bolted onto the entrance of the waterbath and/ or a neck extender

MP.PW.41.g

For ducks, if a ramp is in operation, it extends over the water so the birds get drawn up the ramp by the shackle and then swing down into the water in one smooth movement. Birds must not receive pre-stun shock from the ramp itself

MP.PW.41.h

For ducks, if a neck extender is in operation, it does not obscure the assessment of effective stunning or the absence of pre-stun shocks

MP.PW.41.i

Neck extenders for ducks are monitored to ensure all birds' heads are pushed below the neck extender (and not trapped above it)

MP.PW.41.j

An ammeter is fitted to accurately monitor current flow through the bath when loaded with birds

MP.PW.41.k

The waterbath is adjustable so it is of suitable size and depth for the type of bird - the water height and depth is set such that the birds are fully immersed in the water upto the base of their wings

MP.PW.41.l

Where required by legislation, the system records voltages and currents. Records are kept for at least 1 year

Electrical stunning/ killing records

MP.PW.42

Standards

Birds must be checked for signs of an effective stun or kill before neck cutting

How you will be measured

MP.PW.42.a

A competent person visually assesses every bird on exit of the waterbath stunner / stunning equipment

MP.PW.42.b

Any birds showing signs of an ineffective stun or kill are humanely killed without delay using a permitted back-up method (as detailed in the relevant Appendix), before the blood vessels in the neck are cut. Neck cut occurs immediately after killing

MP.PW.43

Standards

A suitable alternative method of stunning/ killing is available and ready for immediate use should the primary stunning equipment fail

How you will be measured

MP.PW.43.a

The method is as outlined in the Appendix

MP.PW.43.b

The method is ready for immediate use

MP.PW.44

Standards

Where there is a recurring need to use the stun back-up method, the line must be stopped immediately, the root cause established and corrective action undertaken

How you will be measured

MP.PW.44.a

A record of the issue, root cause and corrective action taken is kept

MP.PW.45

Standards

Birds must be exsanguinated without delay after stun by severing of both cartoid arteries and both jugular veins achieving a free and rapid flow of blood (Revised)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.45.a

Stun to neck cut/ decapitation times are as short as possible (but long enough to allow an assessment of stun effectiveness), and as a maximum, do not exceed 10 seconds for electrically stunned birds

MP.PW.45.b

As a minimum the two carotid arteries and the two jugular veins in both sides of the neck are completely severed

MP.PW.45.c

Where automatic neck cutters are used, every bird is checked immediately after the point of neck cutting to verify a correct-cut and rapid bleed out

MP.PW.46

Standards

Birds must be left to bleed and no further dressing procedures (including scalding) undertaken until suspended for a time that has been verified as suficient to ensure death has supervened (Revised)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.46.a

Chickens and ducks are left to bleed for a minimum period of 90 seconds. Turkeys are left to bleed for a minimum period of 120 seconds

MP.PW.46.b

Line speed and access allows for verification that the birds are showing no signs of life prior to dressing

MP.PW.47

Standards

Equipment used to shackle, stun and kill must be maintained in good repair and effective working order

How you will be measured

MP.PW.47.a

All equipment used (including back up equipment) is maintained to be effective and parts replaced as necessary

MP.PW.47.b

Equipment replaced as necessary if faults cannot be rectified, or recurring issues impacting on welfare occur

MP.PW.47.c

Maintenance is undertaken in accordance with maintenance clauses in the Food Safety Module, and includes complete records of all maintenance which are kept for a minimum one year

MP.PW.47.d

Manufacturer instructions are held/ accessible to the responsible person and followed

Maintenance records

MP.PW.48

Standards

Electrical stunning and killing equipment must be calibrated or verified to ensure it works effectively

How you will be measured

MP.PW.48.a

The current and frequency are calibrated in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations

MP.PW.48.b

A documented procedure identifies frequencies of calibration and critical limits that are required

MP.PW.48.c

At least annually, equipment is calibrated by an independent party

MP.PW.48.d

Records of calibration, including any corrective actions are kept

Calibration records

MP.PW.49

Standards

Birds must be handled appropriately at the stunning and killing points

How you will be measured

MP.PW.49.a

Where gas, stun/ kill methods are used, crates are placed on conveyors etc. with due care

MP.PW.50

Standards

Birds must be stunned and killed in accordance with legal requirements, best practice guidelines and the sites standard operating procedures

How you will be measured

MP.PW.50.a

Each bird is exposed to gas for long enough to ensure it is killed

MP.PW.50.b

No birds are shackled before they are dead

MP.PW.50.c

The procedures outline the stunning and killing requirements for birds

MP.PW.50.d

Only the methods outlined in the appendix are used

MP.PW.50.e

Carbon dioxide at high concentration (exposure to minimum 40% carbon dioxide) is prohibited as a method of stunning and killing

MP.PW.50.f

For each method used, specific parameters outlined in the relevant appendix are adhered to

Documented procedures

MP.PW.51

Standards

Carbon dioxide must not exceed an average maximum concentration of 30% until birds have lost consciousness (New)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.51.a

An absolute maximum concentration of 33% is not exceeded until birds have lost consciousness

MP.PW.51.b

The induction to unconsciousness is calm i.e. no excessive wing flapping or escape behaviour observed

MP.PW.52

Standards

Gas stunning equipment used for poultry is designed to maintain welfare and ensure an effective stun and kill

How you will be measured

MP.PW.52.a

The equipment: - measures, displays and record gas concentrations and the time of exposure - maintains gas concentration - allows birds to be monitored in the stunner and accessed without delay - allows atmospheric air to be promptly flushed through the stunner

MP.PW.52.b

A monitoring device is in place which visibly and audibly alerts an operator to drops in gas concentration below the legal limit and equipment failure

MP.PW.52.c

Records are kept for at least one year

Gas concentration and exposure records

MP.PW.53

Standards

Birds must be checked for signs of an effective kill, immediately upon leaving the gas system

How you will be measured

MP.PW.53.a

Any birds showing signs of life are humanely killed without delay using a back-up method before the neck is cut

MP.PW.54

Standards

A contingency plan must be drawn up to include details of what action would be taken if a breakdown occurred while birds were still in the gas system, to avoid prolonged delays

How you will be measured

MP.PW.54.a

In the event of a breakdown, where live birds have remained in the gas system for longer than 2 minutes: - the system must be flushed with atmospheric air to remove the remaining gases - birds must be immediately removed for slaughter using a permitted back-up method

MP.PW.55

Standards

A suitable back-up method of stunning or killing must be readily available at the exit to the gas system and bleed points or in the event of a CAS system breakdown (Revised)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.55.a

The method used is as outlined in the Appendix or can be live inversion with electrical stunning if this is deemed the most humane and available alternative to stun/kill birds

MP.PW.55.b

For large birds weighing more than 15kg liveweight, live inversion with electrical stunning is permitted as a back-up method if recommended by the official veterinarian (OV)

MP.PW.55.c

The method is ready for immediate use

MP.PW.56

Standards

Where there is a recurring need to use the back-up method, the line must be stopped immediately, the root cause established and corrective action undertaken

How you will be measured

MP.PW.56.a

A record of the issue, root cause and corrective action taken is kept

MP.PW.57

Standards

Birds must be exsanguinated or bled without delay

How you will be measured

MP.PW.57.a

Stun to throat cut times are as short as possible (but long enough to allow an assessment of stun effectiveness), and as a maximum, do not exceed 15seconds for electrically stunned birds

MP.PW.57.b

As a minimum the two carotid arteries and the two jugular veins in both sides of the neck are completely severed

MP.PW.57.c

Where automatic neck cutters are used, every bird is checked immediately after the point of neck cutting to verify an effective cut

MP.PW.58

Standards

Birds must be left to bleed and no further dressing procedures (including scalding) undertaken until it has been verified that the bird has no signs of life

How you will be measured

MP.PW.58.a

Chickens and ducks are left to bleed for a minimum period of 90 seconds. Turkeys are left to bleed for a minimum period of 120 seconds

MP.PW.58.b

Line speed allows for verification that the bird is showing no signs of life prior to dressing

MP.PW.59

Standards

Equipment used to stun and kill birds must be maintained in good repair and effective working order

How you will be measured

MP.PW.59.a

All equipment used (including back up equipment) is maintained to be effective and parts replaced as necessary

MP.PW.59.b

Maintenance is undertaken in accordance with maintenance clauses in the Food Safety Module

MP.PW.59.c

Manufacturer instructions are held/ accessible to relevant staff and followed

MP.PW.60

Standards

Gas stunning and killing equipment must be calibrated or verified to ensure it works effectively

How you will be measured

MP.PW.60.a

Gas levels and timings are verified, sensors are calibrated, in accordance with manufacturer recommendations

MP.PW.60.b

The sites documented procedure identifies frequencies of verification or calibration and critical limits that are required

MP.PW.60.c

At least annually, equipment is verified/ calibrated by an independent party

MP.PW.60.d

Records of verification/ calibration, including any corrective actions are kept

Calibration/ verification records

MP.PW.61

Standards

Crates containing live birds must be moved carefully to the vacuum system ensuring birds remain calm (New)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.61.a

No sudden movement, tipping or dropping of crates

MP.PW.62

Standards

LAPS stunning equipment must have a vacuum chamber enabling gradual decompression with enables the oxygen level to reduce to less than 5% (New)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.62.a

Phase one is measured and recorded and a reduction of not more that 760 to 250 Torr is reached in not less than 50 seconds

MP.PW.62.b

Phase two is measured and recorded and a further reduction to 160 Torr is reached within 210 seconds

MP.PW.62.c

The pressure time curve is adjusted to ensure all birds are irreversibly stunned within the cycle time

MP.PW.62.d

The chamber is leak tested and pressure gauges calibrated before each operational session and at least daily

MP.PW.62.e

Records of absolute vacuum pressure, time of exposure, temperature and humidity in the chamber are recorded and kept for at least one year

MP.PW.62.f

The birds are visible within the chamber

Phase 1 & 2 measurement records
Absolute vacuum pressure, exposure time, temperature and humidity records

MP.PW.63

Standards

Birds must be checked for signs of an effective kill, immediately upon leaving the vacuum chamber (New)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.63.a

Any birds showing signs of life are humanely killed without delay using a permitted back-up method before the neck is cut

MP.PW.63.b

Neck cut occurs immediately after killing

MP.PW.64

Standards

The equipment must give a clearly audible warning if the pressure deviates from required levels (New)

MP.PW.65

Standards

The site must have a contingency plan detailing the actions to be taken to avoid prolonged delays if a breakdown occurs while birds are still in the LAPS system (New)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.65.a

In the event of a breakdown: - where live birds have remained in the LAPS system for longer than 2 minutes: - the system must be flushed with atmospheric air - birds must be immediately removed for slaughter using a permitted back-up method

MP.PW.66

Standards

Where there is a recurring need to use the back-up method, the line must be stopped immediately, the root cause established and corrective action undertaken (New)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.66.a

A record of the issue, root cause and corrective action taken is kept

MP.PW.67

Standards

On exiting the chamber birds must be bled out without delay (New)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.67.a

The two carotid arteries and the two jugular veins must be cut and a rapid bleed out achieved

MP.PW.68

Standards

All crates, modules and transport vehicles must be effectively cleansed and disinfected prior to leaving the site

How you will be measured

MP.PW.68.a

The wash phase is effective and removes visible debris

MP.PW.69

Standards

Suitable disinfectants are used

How you will be measured

MP.PW.69.a

Disinfectants used are approved by Defra (or equivalent)

MP.PW.69.b

Disinfectants are diluted in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions and where applicable at General Orders Rates

MP.PW.69.c

Chemical datasheets for disinfectants on-site are easily accessible to relevant staff

MP.PW.70

Standards

The washing facilities must be available and useable during all times of the year that the site is operated

How you will be measured

MP.PW.70.a

Available and useable during the times of year the site is operated (i.e. year-round operating sites are able to offer wash facilities during winter and normal freezing conditions)

MP.PW.70.b

Facility available for use at all times or at times pre-communicated to users

MP.PW.71

Standards

The washing facility must be well-managed and maintained (Revised)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.71.a

The location of the facility poses no risk of cross contamination (i.e. by water spray or run off) to poultry or clean lorries; or a welfare challenge to the birds

MP.PW.71.b

Automated machines must be inspected daily to ensure all nozzles and spray heads are working and operating in the correct direction

MP.PW.71.c

Soak systems and water agitation systems must be operating to standard

MP.PW.71.d

Responsible person contactable during the hours the facility is open

MP.PW.71.e

Area left clean and tidy after use

MP.PW.71.f

There are systems in place to investigate issues raised by users

Automated machine inspection records

MP.PW.72

Standards

Users of the wash facility must be competent

How you will be measured

MP.PW.72.a

If the facility is on-site, crates are washed by site staff, who have received appropriate training lorries/ curtain sides are washed by drivers or site staff

MP.PW.73

Standards

All crates, modules and transport vehicles must be checked for cleanliness, against the sites documented protocols, before leaving the site. (Revised)

How you will be measured

MP.PW.73.a

Visual check undertaken in daylight (or artificial equivalent to)

MP.PW.73.b

Checks made against the site's clean lorry protocols, that includes pictures of acceptable and unacceptable cleanliness as a guide

MP.PW.73.c

Post cleaning, cleanliness of crates, modules and transport vehicles meet the site’s documented standards of acceptability

MP.PW.73.d

Cleanliness checks must be documented

Site protocols and cleanliness check records

MP.PW.74

Standards

Where the check identifies incomplete cleaning, the issue is rectified

How you will be measured

MP.PW.74.a

Crate and/ or module/ vehicle are re-cleaned and disinfected

MP.PW.74.b

Where the issue reoccurs, a root cause analysis is undertaken and where necessary improvements made to the wash facility

MP.PW.75

Standards

All crates and modules must be checked for damage, against the sites documented protocols, before leaving the site

How you will be measured

MP.PW.75.a

Visual check undertaken in daylight (or artificial equivalent to)

MP.PW.76

Standards

Where the check identifies damage that could pose a risk of injury to birds, the crate/ module must be removed

MP.PW.77

Standards

Wastes from the transport washing facility are stored and disposed of appropriately

How you will be measured

MP.PW.77.a

Dirty water is stored in a non-permeable tank and disposed of via a waste contractor, or where appropriate disposed of to mains systems

MP.PW.78

Standards

A CCTV system must be in operation which is used to review practices and behaviours around key welfare activities

How you will be measured

MP.PW.78.a

A CCTV system with a complete and clear view of all the following areas where there are live birds: - unloading - the lairage - handling/ shackling/ restraining - stunning - sticking and bleeding

MP.PW.78.b

CCTV operational and recording at all times when and where there are live birds in the abattoir

MP.PW.78.c

CCTV maintained and in good working order

MP.PW.78.d

CCTV capable of constant recording so that images can be produced for inspection without stopping the overall operation of the system

MP.PW.78.e

Documented procedures detail how the footage will be reviewed and used to review practices and behaviours around key welfare activities

MP.PW.78.f

CCTV footage is kept securely for a minimum of 90 days and is only accessible by nominated staff

MP.PW.78.g

CCTV system capable of storing, processing and transmitting (for example moving to removable storage devices or showing on a television monitor) images and information of the same quality as the original recording

MP.PW.78.h

CCTV images are made available on request

MP.PW.78.i

Employees are informed that CCTV is in use and sign to say that they understand it is in use

Staff understanding that CCTV in use; documented procedures