Benches at the barn entry: an impactful biosecurity enhancement

In North America – and specifically Canada – the poultry industry is now faced with a higher disease threat from Avian Influenza than in years past.

Avian Influenza is being spread by wild birds. Surveillance shows infected wild birds in every corner of Canada and the United States. With migration patterns and virus spread, the contamination level in wild birds is expected to remain high for the foreseeable future.

Due to this increased disease risk, all stakeholders should be critically analyzing their biosecurity practices to be as prepared as possible.

The epidemiology reports from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) of cases to date indicate that an improved barn entrance design is one of the most impactful biosecurity changes that can be made on farms to prevent disease.

A physical bench at the barn entry is a best practice and a demonstrated way to improve biosecurity compliance^1,2. A wide bench reminds people to change their boots because it’s hard to step over. When designing the bench, ensure the bench touches the floor and walls on both sides to prevent organic material from the Controlled Access Zone contaminating the Restricted Area.

For the two zones to be effective the floors must be kept clean with, for example, a dedicated broom for each space.

There are many different barn entry designs, but these are the basic steps for utilizing a bench at the entry. Adapt for your barn as needed.

1. Enter the anteroom and remove outerwear
2. Disinfect any supplies
3. For visitors, sign the visitors log
4. Sit down on the bench and remove your shoes – but do not touch your socks to the floor
5. Without touching your socks to the floor, swing your feet over the barrier and straight into your Restricted Area footwear
6. Ideally, wash your hands. If not, use hand sanitizer
7. Put on your barn-specific clothing and you’re ready for the barn!

More info on chickenfarmers.ca/portal.