“Nothing about biosecurity is difficult to master. There are three general principles to a successful programme – go onto a farm clean, leave the farm clean, and if in doubt… clean and disinfect,” said Shawn Carlton, technical service manager with CobbVantress, speaking at the conference.

In his presentation, Mr Carlton provided best practices for “Sanitation at the Breeder Farm.”

He emphasised the need for a biosecurity programme that includes monitoring and control methods such as water sanitation, reduction of stressors that may cause bacterial infection in flocks, equipment disinfection and contamination monitoring.

Mr Carlton discussed how the highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreak has highlighted the need for biosecurity procedures in and around the farm, remarking: “Biosecurity is a good investment to prevent viruses, bacteria and microbes from affecting the flocks.”

"I believe our single best hope is biosecurity, both for prevention and control of spreading.

"There is no way we can begin to plan for a worst-case scenario for the fall season unless we know site specific biosecurity, depopulation and disposal plans to combat this highly pathogenic strain of avian influenza,” warned Dr Charles Hatcher, state veterinarian for Tennessee.

In his presentation “Avian Influenza... What to Do Now to Prepare for the Fall Season,” Dr Hatcher provided a brief overview of the key factors facing both domestic and international turkeys and egg layers, as related to biosecurity concerns and the economic impact of this far-reaching pandemic.

He also outlined steps hatchery and breeder managers can take to reduce the risk of disease introduction to the flock.

Brian Rodgers, senior director of risk management and safety with Butterball LLC, discussed practical employee safety and hazard prevention programs in his presentation, “Safety at the Hatchery and on the Farm... Back to Basics.”

Mr Rodgers highlighted the need for a safety culture at each farm. According to Mr Rodgers, the implementation of an effective employee-based safety program will not only reduce injury and lost time, but will also mitigate costs.

Other topics included:

• Critical Control Points for ABF Production in the Hatchery;
• Animal Welfare Global Requirements;
• Chick Transport New Innovation;
• Hatchery Sanitation;
• Temperature Set Points and Step-Down Programs in the Hatcher;
• Salmonella A to Z... Breeders through Hatchery;
• Effective Hatching Egg Sanitation.