Hatchery hygiene audits critical to pathogen control

Specialist technical advice is key

Hatchery managers are being encouraged to carry out regular hygiene audits to support their biosecurity protocols.

Hatcheries present unique hygiene challenges compared to other farm settings, operating more like food factories which require significantly higher cleanliness standards, says Rob Hallewell, hatchery hygiene expert at Kersia UK.

“Hatcheries operate on a unique principle where you start with a relatively clean product – the egg – which then hatches and produces all the waste that comes with a living, breathing animal,” he explains.

“This is why the focus on cleanliness is so critical, particularly in areas like transfer, hatching, and processing.”

Clean and dirty

Bacterial pathogens and AI must not gain a foothold inside a hatchery, says Mr Hallewell. Regular hygiene audits are essential for maintaining effective pathogen control and biosecurity in these settings.

“This includes checking the quality of cleaning in areas that have already been cleaned, conducting microbiological testing through total viable count (TVC) swabbing in both clean and dirty areas.”

Producers should verify that products are being applied at the correct strength through titration checks, adds Mr Hallewell. With heightened AI concerns, hatcheries in affected areas are implementing more stringent disinfection protocols.”When a hatchery is located in an AI zone, they must demonstrate that they meet certain standards of biosecurity set out by Defra and APHA so they can continue to operate.

Effective biosecurity

As part of this designation process, disinfectants will be increased to a general orders rate for application. These are higher than standard rates and are specified by Defra, who also independently test disinfectants for efficacy.

Basic biosecurity measures recommended for all hatcheries include control of vehicle and personnel movements onto site, disinfectant application to wheels and footwear at all points of entry.

Good door discipline, segregated clothing and hand washing protocols are important. It’s also important to have a robust hygiene regime including ‘clean as you go’ protocols, and to understand egg flow and airflow to prevent cross-contamination.

Managerial approach

A managerial approach to cleaning is vital for successful disinfection and pathogen control, adds Mr Hallewell. Hatcheries should avoid aggressive cleaning methods that can damage surfaces and provide additional harbourage for microorganisms.

Best results

Understanding the nature of the debris and applying the correct hygiene products with the appropriate equipment will deliver the best results. A partner who can support with specialist technical advice is key.

“It’s about cleaning sensibly rather than destructively, then applying appropriate disinfectants at the correct concentrations,” says Mr Hallewell.

Mr Hallewell acknowledges that aging fabrication presents a significant challenge for many hatcheries – with some older facilities creating pathogen hot spots, which can make cleaning challenging.

A well-trained team is the most important link. “Regular reviews of hatchery hygiene protocols with a specialist will ensure high standards of biosecurity are maintained.”

Prepare now for swine fever outbreak

UK pig producers are being encouraged to strengthen contingency plans for African Swine Fever (ASF).

Organised by AHDB in partnership with Livetec Systems and the National Pig Association , a nationwide series of 25 special workshops is being held throughout 2025 to prepare producers for the rising threat of ASF.

“The threat of ASF is real,” says AHDB senior animal health and welfare scientist Miranda Poulson.

“When it strikes, it strikes hard. That’s why preparation is critical – not just for ASF, but for any notifiable disease like foot-and-mouth.”

Working alongside veterinary practices across England, the 25 face-to-face sessions are open to all producers. The aim is to help farmers collaborate with their vets to develop bespoke, farm-level contingency plans.

Paul Thompson, clinical director at Garth Vets, who facilitated the first event, said the workshops would help producers identify clinical signs of disease, understand how ASF spreads, and formulate strategic farm-specific plans.

“Bringing together a diverse mix of producers, from small independents to larger farming operations, there’s something for everyone to take away from these workshops,” he says.

“So far, it seems one of the biggest eye-openers for many has been the importance of safeguarding personal property and homes from movement restrictions – highlighting the need for strategic boundary planning on farms.”

With funding provided through the AHDB levy, the sessions aim to build producer confidence and ensure a swift, coordinated response in the event of an outbreak.

For more details, visit: ahdb.org.uk/african-swine-fever