Eggs and poultry
Legislation in the eggs and poultry sector
Transport
The Welfare of Animals (Transport) Order 1997
This Order was made under the Animal Health Act of 1981. The main points are that animals including poultry must be handled and transported in a way that will not cause injury or unnecessary suffering, and that they must not be transported when unfit to travel.
Feed and liquid must be available, except for journey times of less than 12 hours, not regarding loading or unloading, or for less than 24 hours for chicks of all species, providing that the journey is completed within 72 hours of hatching.
Commercial transporters must be authorised and Animal Transport Certificates are required unless the journey is less than 50 km, or less than 50 birds are being transported.
Transport vehicles and containers for poultry shall allow birds to be inspected, shall prevent protrusion of heads, legs and wings, and shall prevent unnecessary suffering. Transport vehicles must also be able to withstand weather conditions.
Implementing Authority and Source of Further Information: Local Authority and State Veterinary Service.
Page last modified: 23 March 2006