Important Points About This Website

This guide is intended to instruct operators in the proper and humane use of electrical stunning equipment for the slaughter and killing of red meat livestock. However, anyone aiming to undertake stunning and slaughter procedures should also seek practical training with an experienced operator. In many countries (e.g. EU member states) training and certification are required by law.

In order to safeguard the welfare of the animals to be killed, it is necessary for the guide to be both thorough and illustrated. As such, some people may find some of the descriptions and graphics upsetting. Please do not read further or view the video clips if you feel you may be negatively affected by the content.

Electrical stunning equipment is potentially lethal. You are advised to read the safety section of these notes with particular care. If you are in any doubt as to any aspect of the safe operation of electrical stunning equipment you should consult the manufacturer. In no circumstances can the Humane Slaughter Association accept any liability for the way in which electrical stunning equipment is used, or for any loss, damage, death or injury caused thereby, since this depends on circumstances wholly outside of the HSA's control.

For information regarding electrical stunning of poultry, the HSA has produced an online guide titled 'Practical Slaughter of Poultry - A Guide for the Smallholder and Small-Scale Producer' which contains a section on electrical stunning.

The HSA aims to provide up-to-date and accurate information. If you have suggestions for improving any of the material included in this guide please let us know at info@hsa.org.uk or using the contact details provided at the HSA Website.

A Paperback Version Of This Guide (published 2005) is also available to purchase.