Cleaning

Cleaning

The climate at a hatchery is an ideal breeding ground for pathogens. Good hygiene is vital! Clear cleaning and disinfection protocols must be established and observed in all parts of the hatchery. If disinfected eggs are placed in an unhygienic environment, disinfecting them was pointless. First make sure that dust and dirt are removed. Organic matter such as egg shells, fluff and blood inactivate disinfectants. Remove this first! Disinfection is mentioned a lot, but cleaning agents are responsible for the biggest reduction in germs. An effective cleaning agent can reduce >95% of the harmful pathogens. It ensures that all fat, protein and dust are removed properly. These substances contain the most bacteria, as they are a source of nutrients and a protective layer for pathogens (biofilm). Pathogens can grow and develop without restriction, especially in the favourable environment at the hatchery. High cleaning efficiency and a good contact time with the surface are essential for the efficacy of cleaning agents. The result is an interaction between the two properties. A very powerful cleaning agent that does not adhere to the smooth surfaces (coating, plastic, stainless steel), will not reach the necessary contact time. And the maximum effect of cleaning will not be achieved. Alternating between alkaline (removes grease and fat) and acid (removes protein and minerals) There are four basic elements of cleaning that are key to its success. cleaning agents should be part of the cleaning Mechanical action (brush, high pressure), product (soap, water), temperature protocol. Always read the insert of cleaning agents (better cleaning at a higher temperature), time (the longer, the better). and disinfectants carefully and follow the instructions. Ask your chemical supplier for advice. And know what to do if you spill chemicals on the floor or your skin.

Cleaning and disinfection protocol

1. Sweep and vacuum areas first. 2. Soak the surfaces with a foam cleaner. 3. Allow the room and materials to dry. 4. Rinse with water. 5. Allow the room and materials to dry again. 6. Disinfect. copyright protected

A foam cleaner removes biofilms and mineral deposits. Using a high-pressure spray has the risk of spreading pathogens. Clean per room and not per cabinet. Because no matter what, the cleaning process will influence the relative humidity and temperature in the cabinets that are still filled with eggs. This depends on whether the ventilation is arranged per room or per incubator.

The frequency of cleaning in the hatchery

Area Frequency

Egg receiving/handling room Once every week Egg storage Once every week Setter room/hallways Once every week Setters After each incubation cycle Egg transfer room Hatchers After each use After each use

Chick handling rooms

After each hatch Chick despatch room After each use Racks, trays, baskets, boxes After each use Egg and chick trucks After each egg/chick delivery

Develop clear cleaning and disinfection protocols for the hatchery. This includes a good schedule of activities and not just a correct execution.

A dedicated cleaning trolley keeps all the necessary materials together, so you never forget anything. The simpler the process, the higher the motivation to perform it properly. Make sure all the cleaning materials are readily available. Two taps on the wall: one for water and one for air (for foaming).copyright protected

Protect the vulnerable sensors during cleaning and disinfection, but do not forget to remove the protective cover after cleaning/disinfecting before reloading the machine! Installing a pipe system to dispense disinfectant where it is needed can be effective. Clearly indicate that this is not drinking water! Use of plastic pipes avoids corrosion; copper pipes may corrode.

Did you know?

Regularly alternate between using cleaning and disinfecting agents with different pH values. For example, use alkaline cleaners for three weeks, followed by acid cleaners for one week. This prevents moulds and bacteria from becoming resistant.