Best practices for broiler house cleaning

Proper broiler house cleaning helps farmers achieve better flock health, increased profitability and improved biosecurity.

By systematically removing pathogens and contaminants, farmers can ensure a safe and productive environment for their birds.

Step 1: Prepare the house

Remove all birds and equipment: Move birds to a separate, temporary area. Remove all equipment, feeders and any remaining feed. 

Remove waste: Scrape and shovel out all litter, manure and other debris. Compost it properly or dispose of it away from the poultry house. 

Take down temporary structures: Remove any non-permanent structures or items that could be damaged by water. 

Step 2: Dry clean

Sweep and scrape: Use brooms, shovels or compressed air to remove all remaining loose dust, feathers and dried-on material from ceilings, walls and floors.

Address stubborn areas: For caked-on dirt on surfaces like perches and roosts, scrape as much as possible before wet cleaning.

Step 3: Wet clean

Soak and scrub: Use warm or hot water and a detergent to soak heavily soiled areas like floors, walls and equipment. Scrub all surfaces, working from top to bottom. 

Rinse thoroughly: Rinse all surfaces with clean water to remove all detergent and loosened dirt. 

Clean and disinfect drinking systems: Clean the drinking system with a disinfectant solution, allow for contact time and then rinse with clean water.

Step 4: Disinfect

Apply disinfectant: Once the house is dry, apply an EPA-approved disinfectant that is effective against avian diseases. 

Follow instructions: Use the correct concentration, apply it evenly and allow for the specified contact time. Do not rinse the disinfectant off after application unless instructed to do so. 

Ensure proper conditions: The disinfectant should be applied to clean surfaces; organic matter will reduce its effectiveness. 

Step 5: Dry and finalise

Dry completely: Open doors and windows or use fans to help the house dry completely. Wet surfaces can be harmful to birds. 

Re-install equipment: Put all cleaned and disinfected equipment back in place. 

Replace litter: Add new, clean litter to the floor. 

Ensure biosecurity: Implement measures like footbaths at the entrance to prevent re-infection. 

Change and disinfect gear: Discard protective gear and wash or disinfect your clothes and boots.