Access Restrictions

Different diseases have different incubation periods. For example, infectious bronchitis has an incubation period of 24–48 hours, whilst infectious laryngotracheitis needs about 12 days to appear. Knowledge of incubation periods in conjunction with good visitor records can help identify or exclude particular visitors who may be involved in disease transmission.

Here are some tips:

• Keep a record of all visitors to poultry farms
• Provide protective clothing for visitors
• Sanitise protective clothing after it has been worn
• Sanitise boots externally and internally
• Keep poultry house doors locked at all times (keys available to farm personnel only)
• Use a bell, pager, etc., for visitors to attract attention before entering

Some traffic in a poultry operation is necessary, such as feed delivery. However, there is no reason for the vehicle driver to enter any building. If the doors are kept locked and the keys out of reach, entry can be restricted. Feed delivery slips can be deposited in a glass or plastic container attached to the feed bin or any other nearby structure.

When chicks, poults or young breeder stocks are delivered, vehicle drivers, as well as temporary help, must observe strict sanitary practices for two important reasons:

1) Delivery personnel are entering a recently cleaned and disinfected building

2) They may have made another delivery on their way. They should wear different protective clothing at each stop.

Avian influenza outbreaks in the USA, Italy and the Netherlands have clearly demonstrated that vehicles and equipment used in moving live poultry can spread an infectious agent.

More specific biosecurity information

• Overview
• Traffic control
• Security involving service personnel
• Litter security