Based on scientific research, professional recommendations, and recognized best animal-management practices, the animal welfare standard for broiler production developed by Humane Farm Animal Care (HFAC) presents the approved Certified Humane® requirements for the rearing, handling, transport, and slaughter of broiler chickens. A full chapter (Part 3 – Environment) of the standard is dedicated to facilities.

Would you like to learn more about how to design housing that promotes broiler welfare, including flooring type, bedding, electrical systems, and optimal lighting design? Read on.

Facility records that support welfare

The Certified Humane® program requires a record for each flock that includes a checklist of critical control points related to bird welfare. This record must be continuously updated and readily available whenever an HFAC inspector requests it.

The checklist of critical points must include:

• Total area available to the birds;
• Total number of birds;
• Total number of drinkers and feeders or total linear feeder space;
• Feeding program;
• Target air-quality and temperature parameters by age;
• Lighting schedule and levels;
• Emergency procedures (for example, actions in case of fire, flooding, automatic equipment failure, or when ammonia or temperature exceed acceptable limits).

Electrical Installations

When designing electrical systems, it is essential to ensure that:

• Birds cannot access them;
• They are properly insulated;
• They are protected from rodents;
• They are correctly grounded;
• They are periodically checked for electrical leakage.

Floor Design

Broiler housing must have flooring that can be effectively cleaned and disinfected to prevent the buildup of parasites and disease-causing agents.

Concrete floors are recommended instead of dirt floors because they allow more effective cleaning and disinfection.

Concrete Floors

Concrete floors in broiler houses must be solid, smooth, and durable. They should not have large holes or cracks, and any damage must be properly repaired.

Bedding

All broiler housing must have the entire floor covered with suitable bedding that provides comfort. Birds must have continuous access to this bedding.

Appropriate broiler litter must:

• Consist of material with suitable particle size;
• Be high quality (clean, dry, low dust, and absorbent);
• Be turned to remain loose and dry;
• Have sufficient depth to dilute droppings;
• Prevent excessive fecal contamination of birds’ feet;
• Allow birds to perform dust-bathing behavior;
• Be periodically redistributed and topped up with fresh material when needed.

Lighting Program Design

Certified Humane® standards require that the lighting program in broiler facilities be designed to reduce leg problems and ensure adequate rest. Birds must receive at least six continuous hours of darkness each day.

Light Intensity

Throughout the day, lighting levels must allow birds to see caretakers and enable easy inspection. The lighting system must provide an average of at least 20 lux across the entire housing area.

→ Want to learn more about broiler chicken welfare? Access the full HFAC Broiler Production Standard: https://download.certifiedhumaneasia.org/chickens-broiler