Important points about this website

This guide is intended to assist operators in planning for and dealing with the emergency killing of livestock. 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.

Specific guidance regarding the emergency killing of poultry may be found in the online guide titled Practical Slaughter of Poultry.

Equipment used for killing livestock is also potentially lethal to humans. If you are in any doubt as to any aspect of the operation of such equipment, you should consult the manufacturer. In no circumstances can the Humane Slaughter Association (HSA) accept any liability for the way in which equipment is used, or any loss, damage, injury or death caused thereby, since this depends on circumstances wholly outside the HSA’s control.

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 on the HSA website.