Standard for Low Security Farm Animal Transitional Facilities

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Table of Contents

Introduction

Scope of Part One

This MAF Biosecurity New Zealand Standard specifies the structural and operating requirements for operators of facilities holding farm animals that have been directed on arrival in New Zealand to a low security transitional (quarantine) facility as a requirement of an import health standard. This Standard also specifies how operators and facilities may be approved.

The primary purpose of quarantine is to minimise the risk of introducing infectious agents and their transmission to susceptible species in New Zealand.

Scope of Part Two

Part Two of this MAF Biosecurity New Zealand Standard specifies the requirements for the supplier of supervision of transitional facilities for farm animals to ensure that operators are in compliance with Part One of this Standard.

References

This Standard is an approved standard in terms of sections 39 and 40 of the Biosecurity Act, 1993.

The following publications are referred to in this MAF Biosecurity New Zealand Standard:

  • ISO 9002 (1994): Quality Systems - Model for quality assurance in production, installation and servicing.
  • ISO/IEC 17020 General criteria for the operation of various types of bodies performing inspection.
  • Import health standards for farm animals that have a requirement for low security transitional facilities.

Definitions

For the purposes of this Standard the following definitions apply:

Approval

Means approved by the Director-General, MAF, or his/her delegate.

Approved Disinfectant

A disinfectant approved by MAF for animal disease prevention at the border. The supervisor has access to the list.

Approved person

A person with suitable training and experience who has been approved by the chief technical officer to undertake specific duties on the transitional facility, e.g. a registered veterinary surgeon performing the necropsies on sheep and goats. This person is responsible to the supervisor.

Approved Seal

A tamper proof seal e.g. Tyden seal, lead seal or padlock, approved by MAF to ensure that between application and removal security has been maintained.

Audit

An evaluation to determine the degree of conformity with prescribed criteria and provide a basis for ongoing improvement.

Biosecurity clearance

A clearance under section 26 of this Act for the entry of goods into New Zealand: Biosecurity Act, 1993.

Biosecurity direction

Authority from an inspector, given under section 25 of the Biosecurity Act, to move uncleared goods to a transitional facility, containment facility or biosecurity control area.

Chief technical officer

Is the chief technical officer (as defined in section 101 of the Biosecurity Act, 1993) of MAF with responsibility for animal health in New Zealand. The delegatees identified in the definition of approval [see above] are the people to contact where reference is made to a chief technical officer in this Standard.

Director-General

The chief executive of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry or his/her delegate.

Farm animal

Includes domesticated cattle and other bovine species, sheep, goats, deer, pigs, horses, llamas and alpacas.

Import health standard

A document issued under section 22 of the Biosecurity Act, 1993, which specifies the requirements to be met for the effective management of risks associated with importation of risk goods before those goods may be imported, moved from a biosecurity control area or a transitional facility, or given a biosecurity clearance.

Inspector

A person appointed as an inspector under the Biosecurity Act, 1993.

Internal audit

An audit carried out by the company or organisation to evaluate its own performance in relation to the Standard or prescribed criteria.

Laboratory

MAF Biosecurity Security approved veterinary diagnostic laboratory that is also a transitional facility.

MAF Biosecurity New Zealand (MAFBNZ)

The body within the MAF responsible for regulatory functions associated with this standard.

Operator

The person who has overall responsibility for the facility, its maintenance and operation in terms of section 40 of the Biosecurity Act, 1993.

Permit

Authorisation issued by the supervisor for entry/exit of people, animals and goods onto or off the transitional facility. For the purpose of this Standard a permit will include biosecurity directions.

Permit to import

A numbered document, issued as a requirement of the import health standard.

Procedure

A document that specifies, as applicable, the purpose and scope of an activity; what shall be done and by whom; when, where, and how it shall be done; what materials, equipment, and documentation shall be used; and how it shall be controlled.

Quarantine

Confinement of organisms or organic material that may be harbouring pests or unwanted organisms. Section 2, Biosecurity Act, 1993.

Quarantine period

A minimum period of quarantine as specified in the import health standard.

Risk goods

Any organism, organic material, or other thing or substance, that (by reason of its nature, origin, or other relevant factors) it is reasonable to suspect constitutes, harbours, or contains an organism that may-

  • (a) Cause unwanted harm to natural and physical resources or human health in New Zealand; or
  • (b) Interfere with the diagnosis, management, or treatment, in New Zealand, of pests or unwanted organisms: Section 2, Biosecurity Act, 1993.

Senior Advisor – Operations

The contact details for matters relating to this Standard are

Address: MAF Biosecurity New Zealand

Box 2526

Wellington

Phone: +64 4 894 0100

Email: standards@maf.govt.nz

Supervisor

The person employed by the supplier who inspects the transitional facility and audits the operation of quarantine [See 5.2.2].

Supplier

The party responsible for the performance of the inspection and audit work under a contract with the MAFBNZ.

Transitional facility

Any place approved as a transitional facility in accordance with section 39 for the purpose of inspection, storage, treatment, quarantine, holding, or destruction of specified types of uncleared goods; or part of a port declared to be a transitional facility in accordance with section 39. From section 2, Biosecurity Act 1993.

Uncleared goods

Imported goods for which no biosecurity clearance has been given. Section 2, Biosecurity Act 1993.

Unwanted organisms

Any organism that a chief technical officer believes is capable or potentially capable of causing unwanted harm to any natural and physical resources or human health: Section 2, Biosecurity Act 1993.

Vermin

Rodents, stoats, ferrets, possums and any other animal declared by the chief technical officer to be vermin.

Part One: Requirements of the Operator

1. Approval of a Facility and an Operator

1.1. Approval of a Facility

A transitional facility shall be approved in accordance with section 39 of the Biosecurity Act 1993. It shall have an approved operator and be constructed and operated in accordance with this Standard.

(It is also expected that the facility will comply with the requirements of the Resource Management Act, 1991, Building Act, 1991 and any other relevant legislation.)

A facility may not be approved unless there is an approved operator.

1.1.1. Procedure for approval of a transitional facility

Any person wishing to have a facility approved and to be approved as an operator shall establish contact with the supervisor. (The supervisor's identity may be obtained from the supplier.)

The supervisor will consider applications before construction or alteration of a facility, in order to provide advice on whether the proposed facility is likely to comply with this Standard.

1.1.2. Site approval

An application for site approval shall be submitted to the senior advisor – operational standards through the supervisor before construction of a facility is considered. (If the site is not approved then there is no value in investing resources into developing the facility.)

The application for site approval shall provide the following:

  • Details of the proposal, including the proposed importation programme, the species, and the maximum number and type of farm animals that can be held in the facility.
  • A site plan of the property which shows the location of the proposed facility and the entrances to the site. Boundaries of neighbouring properties shall be shown. The physical location of the property shall be clearly shown in relation to roads in the area.
  • The quarantine site shall be on flat or gently sloping land that is clear of scrub where animals could hide and which does not have a permanent river or permanent flow of water running through it.
  • As the supervisor is required to make frequent visits to the facility [see 5.4.1] the operator shall agree to pay the costs associated with these visits.
  • Procedures for the transport and handling of farm animals and genetic material from the aircraft or ship arriving in New Zealand to residency within the facility. Provide an estimate of the time taken to travel to the facility. Procedures shall ensure that the farm animals and genetic material are isolated from other animals and contained to prevent escape on the journey. Identify the animal welfare measures that will be instituted for long journeys.
  • Evidence from the relevant regional council and/or district council that the proposed operation satisfies planning requirements under the Resource Management Act, Building Act or any other relevant legislation under which these Councils have jurisdiction. The Director-General shall also be satisfied that the Local Authority has been properly informed about the project and, if appropriate, has issued a building consent to construct the facility.
  • A recommendation from the supervisor for site approval, which includes verification of the site’s physical location.

Site approval from the senior advisor – operational standards shall be in writing and the supervisor shall be advised.

1.1.3. Facility approval

When the operator has met the requirements of section 1.1.2, section 2 and section 3 of this Standard, the supervisor shall be requested to inspect the quarantine manual and the facility. When the supervisor is satisfied that:

  • the operator has met the structural requirements of a facility as required in this Standard,
  • the quarantine manual [section 2] meets the requirements of this Standard,
  • the application form as per appendix five of this Standard has been completed satisfactorily by the prospective operator,

the application form and a copy of the quarantine manual shall be sent by the supervisor to the senior advisor
- operational standards, together with the supervisor’s written recommendation for approval of the facility.

The prospective operator may apply for registration as an operator at this time [see section 1.2].

Approval of a transitional facility will be in writing. A facility will usually be approved for a specific event, i.e. a quarantine period, but it may be approved for an unspecified time.

Only when the facility has been approved may it be used for the quarantine of imported farm animals.

1.1.4. Modifications to an approved facility

Subsequent to approval, any modifications or changes to procedures must be notified to the supervisor.

A new floor and/or site plan may be required. Major modifications will require approval and inspection by the supervisor to check that the facility continues to meet the Standard. A major modification is defined as a modification that potentially affects the integrity of the quarantine. Minor modifications should be recorded and checked by the supervisor at the next visit.

1.1.5. Renewal of approval

If approval was cancelled at the end of a quarantine period the operator shall apply to the supervisor for renewal of approval before a permit to import may be issued for another shipment of animals.

1.2. Approval of the Operator

The operator is responsible for the operation of a facility and ensuring that mechanisms are in place for resourcing the facility.

An operator shall be approved in accordance with section 40 of the Biosecurity Act, 1993. If the Director-General is satisfied:

  • that the applicant is a fit and proper person to be the operator of the facility specified in the application and
  • the applicant is able to comply with the operating standards for that facility,

s/he may approve the applicant as the operator of the facility.

The operator shall provide the Director-General with consent as required in the form on page 40, 'Consent to Disclosure of Convictions'. This information provides a basis for the approval decision [see also 1.2.2].

The operator shall satisfy the supervisor that s/he has the technical and financial resourcing mechanisms in place to maintain that facility. The technical resources shall be provided by a person or persons in authority [identified in section 2.3] with the qualifications, training and experience for ensuring that both the structure of the facility and the operating procedures used in the facility are appropriate for the quarantine of farm animals.

The supervisor shall send the facility application forms to the senior advisor – operational standards with the supervisor’s written recommendation for approval of the operator.

Approval of the operator will be in writing.

1.2.1. Leased facilities

If the facility is leased, the lessee responsible for the operation of the facility shall apply to be the operator. The contract with the owner shall clearly identify who is responsible for the maintenance of the premises and the resourcing of the operation. The supervisor shall be satisfied that no part of the lease contract shall override the requirements of this Standard for the operation of the facility.

1.2.2. Collection of personal information on individuals

In regard to any information being collected on the application for approval as an operator, this is personal information (being information identifying or being capable of identifying an individual person). Notification is hereby provided, in accordance with Principle 3 of the Privacy Act 1993, to individuals of the following matters:

  • This information is being collected for the purposes relating to the approval as an operator as per section 40 of the Biosecurity
    Act, 1993.
  • The recipient of this information, which is also the agency that will collect and hold the information, is the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, PO Box 2526, Wellington.
  • You are reminded that under Principles 6 and 7 of the Privacy Act, 1993, you have the right of access to, and correction of, any personal information which has been provided.

1.3. Cancellation of Approval

A facility is no longer approved when the time specified in the approval expires or an event specified in the approval occurs. In addition a chief technical officer may cancel approval of a facility if:

  • the facility no longer complies with this Standard,
  • the chief technical officer is satisfied that the facility is no longer used for the purpose(s) specified in the approval,
  • the operator ceases to be an operator of the facility,
  • the operator is no longer a fit and proper person,
  • the operator requests cancellation.

The chief technical officer may cancel approval of an operator if:

  • no longer satisfied that the facility is being operated according to this Standard,
  • the operator ceases to be an operator of the facility,
  • the operator is no longer a fit and proper person,
  • the operator requests cancellation.

Notice of cancellation shall be given in writing to the operator.

2. Quarantine Manual

The operator shall prepare, maintain and implement a quality assurance programme and procedures based on the principles of AS/NZ 9002, code of good manufacturing practice or similar quality system. Accreditation with other agencies such as IANZ is not required.

The quality assurance programme and any amendments shall address the requirements of this Standard. It shall be documented in a quarantine manual or in an alternative quality system e.g. standard operating procedures.

The supervisor shall approve the quality assurance programme and any amendments.

The items listed below are the minimum requirements for the quarantine manual or alternative quality system.

2.1. General

Describe the main purpose of the business associated with the import of farm animals.

2.2. Quarantine Requirements

Document the procedures used in the transitional facility to meet all of the requirements of the import health standard and section 3 (and any relevant appendix) in this Standard.

Describe the structural components of the facility and how it shall be maintained.

Provide a site plan showing the general layout of the facility and where imported farm animals will be held.

2.3. Management

Identify the operator. Identify the manager if the operator nominates one. Identify the staff working in the facility.

Specify and document the responsibilities of the operator, the manager and staff.

2.4. Training

Nominate a person or position responsible for ensuring that all people who work in the facility are familiar with the principles of quarantine and the procedures of the facility which ensure quarantine and containment.

Describe how the training programme is to be implemented, the time scale for implementation and refresher courses.

Document training records for all staff.

2.5. Internal Controls

Identify quality systems used in the facility.

The operator shall carry out an internal audit at least once every six months to verify that the activities associated with the facility continue to comply with the quality assurance programme. If the facility is not in continuous use the operator shall perform an internal audit on each occasion that it is used.

The quality system shall be reviewed at least once a year by the management to ensure that it is appropriate and effective, and to introduce any necessary changes or improvements.

All audit and review findings and any corrective actions shall be documented.

2.6. Version

Record the version number and issue date of the quarantine manual on each page. Updates are to be approved by the supervisor.

3. Structural and Operational Requirements

3.1. General Requirements

The facility shall be constructed and operated in a manner to ensure that all imported animals and their progeny are contained in isolation.

During the quarantine period the operator shall ensure that no animals, genetic material or any other material may be removed from quarantine without approval of the supervisor. The supervisor shall use a permit system and the conditions of removal shall address the risk of removing unwanted organisms from the facility.

The facility shall not be used for any purpose other than the quarantine and husbandry of imported animals and genetic material.

The operator or member of staff authorised to take charge in the operator's absence shall live on the same property. At no time can the facility be left without someone able to investigate any disturbance as it occurs.

There is no specific restriction on the distance of the site from an international airport but planning for the transport shall take into account the welfare needs of the animals as well as those of biosecurity. Note requirements differ for facilities for holding of Equidae (see appendix 4).

The facility may be an open fenced area or a building. If animals are housed in a closed building the perimeter fencing requirements are waived.

No other animals shall be kept in the paddocks immediately surrounding the quarantine facility for the quarantine period. Domestic pets are also not permitted on or near the faciltiy. If the farm animals, with the exception of horses, are confined to a building then an 8 metre buffer shall be maintained around the facility that is kept clear of farm animals. For requirements for horses see Appendix 4. .

3.2. Security of the Transitional Facility

A prominent sign shall be displayed at entrances to the facility to show that it is a transitional facility and that unauthorised entry is prohibited.

The facility shall be subject to surveillance from a residence sited adjacent to and affording good visibility over the primary access to the quarantine facility.

Procedures shall be adopted to prevent unauthorised access to the facility.

The entrances to the facility shall be kept locked, except when in active use.

Access through the perimeter fence shall be limited. For vehicular access the preferred option is described in section 3.5.1. For an alternative option see section 3.5.2. If there is a gate for pedestrian access only, it shall be self-closing, self locking, and require a key to gain access from outside the perimeter.

3.3. Fencing Requirements

3.3.1. Perimeter fences

The quarantine facility shall be enclosed by a double perimeter fence a minimum of 2 metres apart. One of the perimeter fences shall be a minimum of 2 metres high and may be located as either the inner or the outer perimeter fence of the quarantine facility.

Both perimeter fences shall be stock-proof and capable of containing all quarantined animals. The outer fence shall be capable of preventing the entry of neighbouring stock. The area between fences shall be clear, so that if animals gain access they can be easily seen.

Selection of fence type shall take into consideration the quarantine animals and animals held on the neighbouring farms. If, during the quarantine period there is a change in either the type of quarantine animal or neighbouring stock, perimeter fences may need to be upgraded to new specifications.

Fences shall be sited either on benched or suitable level and stable ground. They should be erected such that stock pressure on the wire, netting or timber is against the post, not the staple or nail.

Where swinging or sliding gates are incorporated into either the inner or outer perimeter fence (such as at the vehicle entrance-way and stock loading race), the gudgeons or rollers shall be of such type or so placed, as to prevent the gates being lifted from them.

Fences shall be free from any risk of falling trees or any other factor such as erosion or a roadway that may predispose them to loss of their integrity.

The operator shall maintain the security of the perimeter fences so as to prevent the escape of quarantined animals and the entry of other farm animals.

Fencing specifications for deer, horses, sheep, goats, cattle, alpaca and llama are located in appendices to this Standard.

3.4. Entry and Exit of People

The facility shall have a single primary access area where the access for personnel, machinery, stock, stores and vehicles are located close together. Additional access areas require chief technical officer approval.

3.4.1. Personnel entry facility

A personnel entry facility shall be provided for authorised people accessing the quarantine site. It shall be lined and of sound construction. The materials used shall enable it to be cleaned and disinfected.

The access doors to the facility shall be locked except when in active use.

The operator shall provide the supervisor with a copy of the access keys.

Provision shall be made for holding the logbook and conditions of entry.

An outer changing room shall be provided for the storage of street clothes and footwear.

A shower facility shall be placed between this room and the inner changing room.

Clothing and footwear for use in the quarantine facility shall be provided by the operator and stored in the inner changing room.

Handwashing facilities shall also be provided with supplies of towels, soap, shampoo and general disinfectant.

3.4.2. Approved access

Access to the facility shall primarily be limited to those people identified in section 2.3, the supervisor and any representative of the chief technical officer.

People essential for the operation of the facility such as a veterinarian, carpenters, electricians and plumbers may also be permitted entry. This group of 'visitors' shall be authorised by the operator. The supervisor shall approve any other visitors. Visitors shall adhere to access procedures and be accompanied by a staff member [i.e. one of the people identified in the section 2.3.].

During quarantine, access to the facility shall be via the personnel entrance facility only. Procedures for access shall be available at the entrance.

3.4.3. Procedures for access and exit

Before entering, all personnel shall sign a declaration to the effect that they will observe the operating instructions for the facility. The logbook shall also record the names and addresses of all people who visit.

The instructions of the operator or supervisor are to be followed at all times.

No items apart from person goods (e.g. jewellery, cell phones, etc.) may be taken onto or off the facility unless authorised by a permit.

People on the facility shall wear protective clothing and footwear supplied by the operator. This clothing shall not be removed from the facility.

People who work with stock shall remove all clothing (underwear optional) and leave them in the outer changing room before entering the inner changing room where they don quarantine facility protective clothing.

  • During exit the dirty clothing is to be left in the inner changing room and the worker shall wash or shower before entering the outer changing room.
  • Sufficient time shall be taken in the shower to ensure a thorough body washing with soap and a hair shampoo.

People who do not work with stock shall wear the protective clothing provided. If their street clothes are not removed on entry then the protective clothing shall cover their clothing. If their street clothes become soiled then these shall be washed thoroughly before leaving, and the visitor shall shower before leaving.

The supervisor may direct that all personnel shower before exit if a disease is suspected or confirmed.

Dirty clothing shall be washed using laundry detergent. It may be laundered offsite but must be taken to the laundry in a sealed container, e.g. a sealed plastic bag.

3.5. Entry and Exit of Vehicles

3.5.1. Vehicle access to the perimeter fence

Vehicular access into the facility should be avoided if possible. An unloading bay that allows vehicles to remain outside the quarantine facility while farm animals or stores are unloaded directly into the quarantine facility may be provided.

  • The unloading area shall be double fenced with a double gate for truck entry. At a suitable place on the perimeter fence of the facility a loading race shall be constructed. This shall preferably have a double gate on the perimeter fence that allows the vehicle to back onto a narrow race on the inner facility fence.
  • During unloading of farm animals into the facility the truck shall be driven into the unloading area and the two double gates secured. The double gate through the outer fence of the facility is opened and the truck backed up to the opening of the inner fence. Animals are unloaded after the gates through the perimeter fence are locked.

3.5.2. Machinery and vehicular access through perimeter fence

If the entry and exit of vehicles is unavoidable then they must be thoroughly cleaned before exit. Lockable entrance gates through the perimeter fence and a vehicle cleaning area shall be provided. Facilities shall include:

  • a concrete pad for the hosing down and disinfection of vehicles and machinery,
  • a water supply with high pressure hose,
  • drainage back onto the facility.

High-pressure water sprays or steam cleaners and scrubbing utensils shall be used for cleaning and disinfection of vehicles before exit from the facility.

3.6. Approved Transport

The operator shall identify a transport service for the transportation of farm animals. The approved transport shall be a vehicle or trailer which meets the following minimum requirements:

  • A crate which is sealed at the bottom and whose solid sides are high enough to effectively prevent the discharge of faeces and urine from the conveyance.
  • A sealed effluent system with a storage capacity to meet the requirements of the distances to be travelled. The supervisor shall approve the effluent disposal.
  • Each external gate capable of having an approved seal applied to it.
  • Provision for towing the conveyance, so that in the event of a breakdown it can be effectively towed to its destination, e.g. a Hard Tow System.

During transport an approved seal shall be applied to the external gate(s) by the supervisor.

3.7. Preparations Before the Farm Animals Arrive

Sufficient equipment and supplies to meet all normal operational requirements shall be installed in the facility before the farm animals arrive.

Sufficient feed shall be stored within the facility to cover more than the quarantine period in case the period is extended. Alternatively, feed to the facility may be delivered via a feed line connected to a separate feed silo.

3.8. Transport of Farm Animals to the Transitional Facility

This movement may occur from the port of arrival or from one facility to another [5.4.4]. A biosecurity direction shall record the relevant details and the conditions of transfer.

All farm animals shall be transported in an approved transport [3.6]. The vehicle shall be cleaned (including effluent tanks) and disinfected with an approved disinfectant after unloading. See also the requirements of 3.8.1.

A sign shall be displayed in the cab, or at the rear of the approved transport that states: "In the event of an accident or emergency phone these people as soon as possible….."

The driver shall be given contact phone numbers in the case of an emergency between the quarantine facility and the destination.

If the driver has contact with the farm animals he/she shall follow the protective clothing and showering requirements for people who work with quarantined animals.

3.8.1. Cleaning of transport crates

Transport crates used during the importation shall be unloaded within the facility and subject to cleaning and disinfection with an approved disinfectant as soon as possible after arrival. Special attention shall also be given to prevent the introduction of weed seeds. Waste matter including hay, soil and faecal material shall be incinerated.

3.8.2. Prevention of weed establishment

All weed seeds that may be carried by the animals, both internally and externally, shall be destroyed by incineration or be subject to deep burial.

  • The animals shall be examined and measures taken to recover and destroy weed seeds by clipping, brushing or combing the animal’s coat and cleaning the feet.
  • All faecal material passed during the first 14 days of quarantine shall be disposed of by deep burial or incineration (section 3.10).

Surveillance shall be maintained for the presence of foreign plants within and around the facility. A contingency plan shall cover the identification and eradication of any foreign plants.

3.8.3. Examination of animals for external parasites

Provision shall be made for animals to be held for close examination and treatment for external parasites as specified in the import health standard.

3.9. Identification of Animals and Register

All ruminants and pigs shall be identified individually by a coloured plastic tag and either a tattoo or microchip.

A register of quarantined animals shall be maintained which records the identity and fate of all animals on the facility.

The supervisor may require a muster of animals at any time for identification or inspection.

3.10. Waste Management Plan

Where the facility is located in an urban area provision shall be made for the disposal of waste as follows:

  • Access to a commercial incinerator for the disposal of carcasses and animal tissue.
  • A connection to the city sewer for the discharge of liquid effluent or alternatively, a sedimentation/oxidation pond within the confines of the quarantine facility. Note sewer does not mean a storm water system. It must be a council sewerage system that goes through a treatment process before discharge.
  • An approved transport system for the transfer of solid wastes (excluding animal tissues) to a landfill tip outside the facility. The faecal waste shall be buried a minimum of 2 metres.

Where the facility is located in a rural area provision shall be made for the disposal of waste as follows:

  • Access to a commercial incinerator or an offal hole for the disposal of carcasses, placenta, and other waste, the latter having a secure and close fitting lid.
  • A sedimentation/oxidation pond within the confines of the quarantine facility or alternatively a secure and covered sump of adequate capacity for the disposal of liquid effluent; the latter allowing for natural permeation into the subsoil without direct entry to any drainage system discharging off the property.
  • A landfill tip within the confines of the quarantine facility (subject to drainage and wind exposure factors) or alternatively an approved conveyance system for the transfer of solid wastes (excluding animal tissues) to a landfill tip outside the facility. The faecal material shall in each case be buried a minimum of 2 metres.

3.11. Disease Surveillance

The animals shall be subjected to such examinations, testing or treatment as is required:

  • by the import health standard,
  • for disease investigation, or
  • as required by the chief technical officer.

The operator shall observe animals for signs of illness, injury, and abnormal behaviour periodically throughout the day. The level of daily surveillance shall be sufficient to ensure that sick and dead animals are found in sufficient time for follow up disease investigations by the supervisor.

The operator shall report immediately to the supervisor any serious illness, death or changes of behaviour in the farm animals.

Farm animals shall be available for inspection by the supervisor who reserves the right to take specimens at any time for disease testing.

No medication or drugs are to be administered to farm animals without the approval of the chief technical officer. Treatments or prophylactic measures shall not interfere with disease surveillance.

3.11.1. Post-mortem

Post-mortem facilities shall be provided with access to hot and cold water. Materials for processing and packaging samples for further examination shall be provided.

The facility shall have, or access to, sufficient equipment to perform a full necropsy, and provide for the collection and submission of samples.

Animals shall be necropsied to establish the cause of death as soon as is possible after death.

The carcasses of dead animals, especially sheep, goats and camelids with full fleeces, shall be cooled or kept under refrigeration, wherever possible, until post-mortem or as directed by the supervisor.

3.12. Occurrence of Infectious Disease

If an infectious disease occurs during quarantine the cause shall be established and reported to the chief technical officer by the supervisor. If the disease is exotic to New Zealand the chief technical officer may direct the management of disease control and extend the period of quarantine or order the destruction of the farm animals.

If the farm animals are to be destroyed and/or the facility requires decontamination the following procedures are likely to be authorised:

  • The farm animals shall be destroyed.
  • All dead farm animals, unconsumed feed, manure and bedding may be double bagged and removed from the facility for sterilisation or incineration.
  • The facility, pens and accessories etc. shall be thoroughly cleaned and sprayed with an approved disinfectant.
  • Treatment of liquid waste.

Approval shall be sought from the chief technical officer before the facility can be used again.

3.13. Shared Quarantine

If a subsequent shipment of farm animals or genetic material arrives during quarantine then the release of all farm animals shall be delayed until the last shipment is authorised for biosecurity clearance.

3.14. Vermin Control

Surveillance shall be maintained for the presence of vermin and control activities undertaken if they are detected.

3.15. Veterinary Practitioner

The practitioner may attend to an animal in the facility provided that the rules for visitors are followed.

If surgical and anaesthetic equipment is brought to the facility it shall be cleaned and autoclaved or disinfected with an approved disinfectant under direction of the supervisor before removal.

3.16. Contingency Plans

Contingency plans shall be in place to take account of an inadvertent liberation, vehicle breakdown during transport, fire or any other emergency. Resources shall be identified and accessible for the contingency.

If there is an escape of animals from the facility action shall be immediately taken to prevent further escape and to recover and return to containment the escaped animals. Similarly, procedures shall address the entry of animals onto the facility.

Procedures shall address the fate of in-contact animals.

The supervisor shall be advised as soon as is possible.

A contingency shall also be created for what steps will be followed in the event that an animal in quarantine becomes ill and is deemed to require surgery.

3.17. Costs

The operator is required to pay all costs associated with the operation of the facility. The costs of approval and supervision of the facility shall be in accordance with the Biosecurity Act 1993 and its regulations.

3.18. Biosecurity Clearance

The supervisor shall release animals from quarantine when the requirements of the import health standard are met [section 5.4.6].

3.19. External Audit

The operator shall provide the supervisor or any other representative of a chief technical officer access to the facility, records and documents for inspection and audit. The operator shall be available to assist and ensure that all relevant procedures and records are made available to the supervisor.

The supervisor will conduct inspections and on-site audits as specified in section 5. Additional audits will be conducted as required, especially if non-compliance is found. For incidents of non-compliance see section 5.4.7

3.20. Records

The operator is required to demonstrate compliance with this Standard by keeping records as required for the quality assurance programme and documented in the quarantine manual. The operator shall, for auditing purposes, maintain for three years the following records filed with each permit to import:

  • Exporter, country of origin, import health certification, number and identity of farm animals imported, date of arrival, number released, release date and name and address of owner receiving the released animals, biosecurity clearances.
  • Details of diseases diagnosed, the animal's morbidity and mortality records and treatments given.
  • Entrance logbook and declarations.
  • Biosecurity directions and permits to move goods and animals from the facility.
  • An inventory of stored genetic material. Records shall include the identity of donors and recipients, number of embryos/straws of semen, dates of collection and implantation/insemination, details of stored genetic material.
  • Records of internal audits and corrective actions.
  • Records of external audits and corrective actions.

Part Two: Requirements of the Supplier

Scope of Part Two

Part Two of this MAFBNZ Standard specifies the requirements for the supplier of supervision of transitional facilities for farm animals to ensure that operators are in compliance with Part One of this Standard.

Service Outline

The supplier shall provide the chief technical officer with a service to supervise the activities of operators who are required to operate transitional facilities according to Part One of this Standard.

4. Service Requirements

4.1. General Requirements

Supervision shall be administered in accordance with this Standard, a national quality system based on ISO/IEC 17020 and any relevant legislation.

The supplier shall provide quarterly reports to the chief technical officer giving an update on the supplier's management structure and key personnel [refer section 4.2], and results of internal audits and corrective actions.

The supplier and employees shall have no financial interest in the transitional facilities or any other affiliations that could be construed as conflict of interest.

The chief technical officer may audit the supervisor at each transitional facility.

4.2. Key Personnel

Within one month of receipt of this Standard, the supplier shall make formal arrangements for provision of the key personnel listed below. The chief technical officer shall be notified in writing of these arrangements.

4.2.1. Management representative

The management representative (reporting to senior management) shall have defined authority and responsibility for ensuring that there are systems in place to meet the requirements of this Standard and that these systems are implemented and maintained.

4.2.2. Supervisors

The chief technical officer shall approve supervisors before they are appointed.

Qualifications: The supervisor shall be a registered veterinary surgeon and an inspector as defined by the Biosecurity Act, 1993. The supervisor shall be able to demonstrate that s/he has an understanding of the principles of quarantine, quality systems and auditing, the import health standard, the requirements of this Standard, the relevant legislation and some appreciation of the business and objectives of the operator.

The supplier shall ensure that a person appointed to be a supervisor of a transitional facility is able to describe in a way that can be clearly understood by the operator of these facilities:

  • the commonly used means for meeting the transitional facility requirements as specified in this Standard,
  • the circumstances in which such means can fail to comply, and
  • the steps that should be taken to re-establish compliance.

The supplier shall be responsible for the training of supervisors, so that they know their responsibilities for this Standard.

The supervisor may recommend to the chief technical officer the approval of an approved person to be assigned specified duties. For example, a local veterinary practice may be utilised for the routine necropsy work at the facility. The supervisor may also assign an inspector to specific duties on the facility.

The supervisor shall ensure that these people know the relevant requirements of this Standard in relation to their duties and shall be responsible to the supervisor.

5. Technical Requirements

5.1. Approval of a Facility

The supervisor shall be prepared to consider applications before construction of a facility, in order to provide advice on whether the proposed facility is likely to comply with the Standard.

The requirements for approval are described in section 1.1 of this Standard and the supervisor shall inspect the facility before making a recommendation on approval.

If the quality system is accredited by an external agency as described in section 2, the supervisor shall satisfy him/herself that the requirements of this Standard are addressed in the quality assurance programme.

5.2. Approval of an Operator

Requirements for approval are described in section 1.2.

Where the facility is leased, the supervisor shall examine the contract and be satisfied that the contract does not override the requirements of the Standard.

The supervisor shall make a recommendation to the senior advisor – operational standards taking these requirements into consideration.

5.3. Cancellation of Approval

The supervisor shall refer to section 1.3, and if satisfied that the facility

  • no longer complies with this Standard, or
  • is no longer being used for the purpose(s) specified in the approval,

he/she shall discuss the issue with the operator. If the issue is not resolved to the satisfaction of the supervisor, and after informing the operator of his/her intention in writing, the supervisor shall make a recommendation to the chief technical officer that approval of the facility should be cancelled.

If the supervisor is satisfied that the operator;

  • is not operating the facility according to this Standard,
  • is no longer a fit and proper person,
  • ceases to act as the operator or requests cancellation,

he/she shall discuss the issue with the operator.

If the issue is not resolved to the satisfaction of the supervisor, and after informing the operator of his/her intention in writing, the supervisor shall make a recommendation to the chief technical officer that approval of the operator should be cancelled. If an alternative operator cannot be approved then approval of the facility shall also be cancelled.

5.4. Supervision of a Facility

5.4.1. Minimum requirements for inspection

The supervisor shall have a schedule for regular inspection of the facility and audit of operator's procedures. S/he shall make as many visits as considered necessary but the minimum number of visits are:

Prior to the arrival of animals when a facility approval has been cancelled or a permit to import is required [see section 1.1.5],

  • the supervisor shall audit the facility and procedures to ensure that the facility meets the requirements of this Standard.
  • The supervisor shall recommend to the senior advisor – operational standards that the facility is approved and/or that a permit to import is issued.

Within 24 hours of the arrival of the animals,

  • check the exporter's certification against the requirements of the import health standard,
  • check the health and identity of the animals,
  • attend to the requirements of the import health standard,

Once a week until release:

  • at every visit the supervisor shall inspect the animals for any sign of disease,
  • check that the operator and the facility continue to meet the requirements of this Standard.

5.4.2. Disease surveillance and treatment

The supervisor shall subject any animal to such testing and treatment as is required:

  • by the import health standard,
  • for disease investigation, or
  • as required by the chief technical officer.

The supervisor has the responsibility for ensuring that, wherever possible, the cause of disease or death is established.

5.4.3. Submission of specimens to the laboratory

The supervisor shall phone the laboratory before submitting samples to advise the laboratory and receive direction on the type of samples to send. The packaging of specimens of infectious material shall be in accordance with instructions from the laboratory. Samples are to be dispatched in a clearly addressed sealed box by the fastest secure method.

5.4.4. Transfer of animals between facilities

As animals in quarantine have a questionable health status they should be kept in the facility to avoid exposing other animals to risk during transport. However, transfers may be made between transitional facilities under the following circumstances [see section 3.5].

A supervisor may give a biosecurity direction to transfer animals between facilities when satisfied that:

  • the receiving facility is an approved transitional facility for farm animals which meets the requirements of this Standard,
  • the animal shall be transferred by an approved transport,
  • the supervisor of the receiving facility confirms that the receiving facility can accommodate the animals and approves the transfer,
  • the chief technical officer approves the transfer.

At the time of the transfer the supervisors shall be satisfied that:

  • the transfer can be monitored so that both supervisors know when the transfer is to occur and when it has occurred,
  • the number of animals sent and the number received can be verified.

The supervisor(s) shall be present during the transfer to ensure that no direct or indirect contact occurs with other animals.

The export of farm animals or their genetic material shall require a written authority from the supervisor. The transfer shall be recorded in the register.

5.4.5. Non-compliance

For incidents of non-compliance the supervisor shall issue:

  • a critical situation report for situations that may present a risk to biosecurity. For example, when an animal was moved out of a transitional facility without approval.

The supervisor shall advise the chief technical officer immediately and the action taken may be in accordance with section 126 of the Biosecurity Act:

The supervisor shall give a direction in writing to the operator of the facility specifying the suspected failure to comply or unsatisfactory circumstances, stating what the operator is required to do to remedy the situation and specifying the time within which the direction must be complied with.

The chief technical officer may direct that all permits to import are cancelled and may not be re-issued until the non-conformity is rectified.

If the chief technical officer considers it necessary s/he may intervene in the management and operation of the facility in order to ensure compliance with the standards for that facility.

The chief technical officer may direct that all animals are kept for an extended quarantine period.

  • a corrective action request (CAR) for a non-compliance that is not a serious risk to biosecurity. For example, a notice is not placed at the entrance of the transitional facility showing that access is restricted.

Quarantine be will permitted to continue but the operator will be given a specified period of time to rectify the non-conformity.

The issuance of a CAR during any of the above audits/visits will necessitate that follow up audits be performed which specifically address compliance to the subject of the CAR.

5.4.6. Biosecurity clearance

At the end of the quarantine period the supervisor shall make a recommendation (by e-mail) to the chief technical officer through the senior advisor – operational standards for the release of animals when satisfied that:

  • the conditions of the import health standard have been met and the exporter's certification is in order.
  • the transitional facility has been operating according to this Standard.
  • the farm animals are in good health and there is no evidence of exotic disease.

The recommendation shall include, but is not limited to:

  • species and source of animals,
  • date of arrival and proposed date of release,
  • probable cause of disease,
  • mortality and morbidity,
  • laboratory findings.
  • When approved the supervisor shall issue a biosecurity clearance in writing to the operator.

5.4.7. Cost recovery

The supervisor shall recover the costs associated with supervision in accordance with the Biosecurity Act 1993 and its regulations.

5.4.8. Reporting requirements

The supervisor shall provide every six months, to the senior advisor – operational standards for each facility supervised, a written report that shows:

  • the number and species of animals imported,
  • biosecurity clearances issued,
  • CARs issued and progress toward compliance.

5.4.9. Records

The supervisor is required to keep records of inspections and audits of the operation of quarantine. These records which are to be archived shall include:

  • reports to the senior advisor – operational standards,
  • audit findings,
  • reports of critical situation reports, CARs and the results of follow-up visits.

The supervisor shall also maintain the following records for each shipment imported:

  • permit to import number, date of arrival and health certification documents from the country of origin,
  • country of origin, description of animals,
  • owners name and address,
  • laboratory test results to meet import health standard requirements,
  • details of significant behavioural changes, sickness, injuries, treatments, post-mortem results,
  • date of biosecurity clearance.

Appendix One - Perimeter Fencing for Sheep

Conventional Fence for Sheep

Line wire

Nine (9) line wires (2.5mm galvanised H/T) with posts at not more than 4 metre spacings and 3 battens per 4 metres. Battens are not to be more than 1 metre apart.

The height from the ground line to the top of each post is to be 1.175 metres.

Wire spacings - when measured from the top of each post, the wires are to be located at the following centres: top wire at 50mm then 220mm - 375mm - 515mm - 655mm - 775mm- 875mm - 975mm -1075mm.

The bottom wire is to be a maximum of 100mm from the ground line.

Wire tension: Between 1400 and 1700 Newtons per wire.

Round wood shall comply with NZS 3607.

Fabricated netting

Eight (8) line wire (2.5mm galvanised H/T) netting (8-900-300); each stay wire or dropper shall be one continuous length and be joined to the line wires by a manufactured knot (e.g. Tightlock or Stiffstay).

The posts are to be at not more than 4 metre spacings and the height from the ground line to the top of each post is to be 1.175 metres.

The bottom wire of the netting is to be a maximum of 100mm from the ground.

A single line wire (2.5mm galvanised H/T) should be located 50mm from the top of each post.

Wire tension: Single line wire - between 1400 and 1700 Newtons.

Netting - between 11,200 and 13,600 Newtons.

Round wood shall comply with NZS 3607.

Timber

Vertical or horizontal boards not less than 150 x 25mm (grade 1 timber) may be used. The distance from the bottom of the fence to the ground line is to be a maximum of 100mm.

Vertical boards: the gap between each board is not to exceed 100mm.

Horizontal boards: the gap between boards shall be in proportion (at any given height) to those specified for a conventional line wire fence.

Two Metre Fence for Sheep

Fabricated netting

Thirteen (13) line wire (2.5mm galvanised H/T) netting (13-1900-150); each stay wire or dropper shall be one continuous length and be joined to the line wires by a manufactured knot (e.g. Tightlock or Stiffstay).

The posts are to be at not more than 5 metre spacings and the height from the ground line to the top of each post is to be a minimum of 2.070 metres.

The bottom wire of the netting is to be a maximum of 100mm from the ground.

Netting tension: between 18,000 and 22,000 Newtons.

Round wood shall comply with NZS 3607.

Line wire

Thirteen (13) line wires (2.5mm galvanised H/T) with posts at not more than 4 metre spacings and 5 battens (2 metre) per 4 metres.

The height from the ground line to the top of the posts is to be 2.070 metres.

Wire spacings, when measured from the top of each post, the wires are to be located at the following centres: top wire 50mm then 230mm - 410mm - 590mm - 770mm - 950mm - 1130mm - 1310mm - 1475mm - 1615mm - 1740mm - 1855mm - 1970mm.

The bottom wire is to be a maximum of 100mm from the ground line.

Wire tension: between 1400 and 1700 Newtons per wire.

Round wood shall comply with NZS 3607.

Timber

Vertical or horizontal boards not less than 150 x 25mm (grade 1 timber) may be used. The distance from the bottom of the fence to the ground line is to be a maximum of 100mm.

Vertical boards: the gap between each board is not to exceed 50mm.

Horizontal boards: the gap between boards shall not exceed 50mm.

Appendix Two - Perimeter Fencing for Goats

Angle stays are not permitted for goat fences as goats tend to walk up the stay and over the fence.

Conventional Fence for Goats

Line wire

Ten line wires (2.5mm galvanised H/T) with posts at not more than 4 metre spacings and 3 battens per 4 metres. Battens are not to be more than 1 metre apart.

The height from the ground line to the top of each post is to be 1.175 metres.

Wire spacings - when measured from the top of each post, the wires are to be located at the following centres: top wire at 50mm then 250mm - 410mm - 540mm - 670mm - 770mm - 870mm - 945mm -1020mm - 1095mm.

The bottom wire is to be a maximum of 80 mm from the ground.

Wire tension: between 1400 and 1700 Newtons per wire.

Round wood shall comply with NZS 3607.

Fabricated netting

Eight (8) line wire (2.5mm galvanised H/T) netting (8-900-300); each stay wire or dropper shall be one continuous length and be joined to the line wires by a manufactured knot (e.g. Tightlock or Stiffstay).

The posts are to be at not more than 4 metre spacings and the height from the ground line to the top of each post is to be 1.175 metres.

The bottom wire of the netting is to be a maximum of 80mm from the ground.

A single line wire (2.5mm galvanised H/T) should be located 50mm from the top of each post.

Wire tension: Single line wire - between 1400 and 1700 Newtons.

Netting - between 11,200 and 13,600 Newtons.

Round wood shall comply with NZS 3607.

Timber

Vertical or horizontal boards not less than 150 x 25mm (grade 1 timber) may be used. The distance from the bottom of the fence to the ground line is to be a maximum of 80mm.

Vertical boards: the gap between each board is not to exceed 80mm.

Horizontal boards: the gap between boards shall be in proportion (at any given height) to those specified for a conventional line wire fence.

Two Metre Fence for Goats

Fabricated netting

Seventeen (17) line wire (2.5mm galvanised H/T) netting (17-1900-150); each stay wire or dropper shall be one continuous length and be joined to the line wires by a manufactured knot (e.g. Tightlock or Stiffstay).

The posts are to be at not more than 5 metre spacings and the height from the ground line to the top of each post is to be a minimum of 2.060 metres.

The bottom wire of the netting is to be a maximum of 80 mm from the ground.

Netting tension: between 22,000 and 26,000 Newtons.

Round wood shall comply with NZS 3607.

Line wire

Seventeen (17) line wires (2.5mm galvanised H/T) with posts at not more than 4 metre spacings and 5 battens per 4 metres.

The height from the ground line to the top of each post is to be 2.060 metres.

Wire spacings, when measured from the top of each post, the wires are to be located at the following centres: top wire 50mm then 230mm - 405mm - 580mm - 755mm - 930mm - 1105mm - 1200mm - 1295mm - 1390mm - 1485mm - 1580mm - 1660mm - 1740mm - 1820mm - 1900mm - 1980mm.

The bottom wire is to be a maximum of 80mm from the ground line.

Wire tension: between 1400 and 1700 Newtons per wire.

Round wood shall comply with NZS 3607.

Fabricated netting/line wire combination

Fifteen (15) line wire (2.5 mm galvanised H/T) netting (15-1550-300); each stay wire or dropper shall be one continuous length and be joined to the line wires by a manufactured knot (eg Tightlock or Stiffstay).

The posts are to be at not more than 4 metre spacings. The height from the ground line to the top of each post is to be a minimum of 2.060 metres.

The bottom line of the netting is to be a maximum of 80 mm from the ground.

Three (3) line wires (2.5 mm galvanised H/T) above the netting; the centres of the wires are to be no greater than 150 mm apart when measured from the top of the netting.

The line wires may be electrified.

Permanent wire strainers are to be installed in the line wires to allow the wires to be tensioned.

Netting tension: between 22,000 and 26,000 Newtons.

Wire tension: between 1400 and 1700 Newtons per wire.

Round wood shall comply with NZS 3607.

Timber

Vertical or horizontal boards not less than 150 x 25mm (grade 1 timber) may be used. The distance from the bottom of the fence to the ground line is to be a maximum of 80mm.

Vertical boards: the gap between each board is not to exceed 50mm.

Horizontal boards: the gap between boards shall not exceed 50mm.

Appendix Three - Perimeter Fencing for Deer, Cattle, Alpaca and Llama

There shall be two 2 metre fences.

For cattle, alpaca and llama the outer fence shall be the same as the 2 metre sheep netting fence and the inner fence shall be the same as the sheep 2 metre line fence.

For deer, both fences shall be the same as the 2 metre sheep-netting fence.

Wire should have NZ wire mark for quality.

2.7 m round posts 115 mm small end diameter

3.6 m strainers 200 mm small end diameter

3.0 m angles 175 mm small end diameter

Battens 50 mm x 50 mm x 2.0 m

Stays 115 mm (S.E.D.)

Stay blocks 200 mm x 100 mm x 1.0 m. H.4. treated pine.

Staples double dipped 50 x 4.0 post

Staples double dipped 30 x 3.15 battens

A post driver should drive all posts. If materials are dug then 4.5 mm wire shall be used for footing. Stay blocks shall be dug horizontally. All materials shall be dry before use for long wire and staple life. Gates shall have welded hinges and lock thru gudgeons fitted apposing each other. Gates shall have automatic catches and a chain with a locking device.

Appendix Four - Requirements for Facilities holding animals of the family Equidae (horses, donkeys, mules)

The requirements listed in this appendix are in addition to the requirements listed in the main body of the standard.

The conditions of this appendix must be implemented to reduce the likelihood of transmission of infectious disease agents to horses and other Equidae outside the facility.

Any dispute or conflict regarding the implementation of the standard or this appendix shall be resolved by the supervisor of the facility.

No changes to the structure or operation of this standard and appendix shall be made unless these changes have been approved by MAFBNZ via this email address - standards@maf.govt.nz

Additional Requirements

1. Facilities should be located within 100km of the first place of arrival in New Zealand

Note: If a facility can develop an approved contingency plan to take into account animal welfare issues regarding long periods of travel then this requirement may be waived.

2. The facility shall be enclosed by a 2 metre high double fence. A buffer zone between the two fences shall be at least 100m wide. The fences shall be constructed in a manner that will prevent animals from breaching them. Or, alternatively; there shall be one outer 2 metre fence. The inner fence shall be a visual barrier suitable for horses that prevents access to the outer fence e.g. a fence with horizontal board railings. The quarantine facility shall be sited at least 100 metres away from areas that are accessed by other animals in the family Equidae, i.e. non-quarantined horses/ donkeys/ mules shall always be kept at least 100 metres away from the perimeter fence.

3. Any person entering the facility must have the permission of the supervisor and facility operator.

4. Anyone entering the facility must change out of their street clothes into protective clothing provided by the facility. Anyone that has come into contact with horses (domestic or imported) 24 hours prior must shower in. Everyone leaving must shower out, shampooing of hair is necessary when showering out.

People entering parts of the facility where horses are not kept do not have to shower out, unless they come into contact with any of the horses held in the facility.

5. All protective clothing must stay at the facility (coveralls, gumboots etc.) and must be disinfected (washed and laundered) after use. If disposable overalls are used these must be securely held at the facility and appropriately disposed of after completion of the quarantine period.

6. Where possible truck drivers should not assist with loading of horses and shall remain in the cab of their truck during unloading of horses and disinfection and cleaning of the truck. However [as a contingency] truck drivers must wear overalls and gumboots in case they are required to assist with loading and unloading (i.e. due to emergencies should the horse travel badly). If the truck driver comes into contact with horses they are to shower out before leaving the facility and shall leave their overalls at the facility (as per number 4).

7. All trucks and service vehicles entering or coming into contact with horses must be sprayed with disinfectant before leaving the premises with particular attention to between tyres.

8. Vets attending the horses need to wear a mask when taking nasopharanygeal swabs and when around horses with respiratory clinical signs.

9. Horse rectal temperatures shall be taken twice daily, charted and records kept.

10. Horses must be examined daily by a veterinarian approved by the chief technical officer.

11. Any horse equipment must be cleaned and disinfected and maintained in a clean state.

12. Anyone expected to have direct contact with horses, (e.g. vets, grooms, Operator, farrier or stablehands) must demonstrate competence in personal biosecurity measures to a level approved by MAF (e.g. via an approved training course)

13. Any persons accompanying imported horses from overseas (eg grooms or vets) must proceed straight from the place of arrival to the transitional facility, with no stops along the way. At the facility they are required to leave their travelling clothes and any equipment used with the animals for laundering and/ or disinfection. They are required to shower and shampoo, and change into clean uncontaminated clothing before leaving the facility.

Appendix Five - Transitional Facility/Operator Registration

Application forms and information on registering as a transitional facility and operator can be found on the MAF Biosecurity New Zealand website at:

http://www.biosecurity.govt.nz/regs/trans/register

Contact Us

Customer Services Officer

MAF Biosecurity New Zealand
PO Box 2526
Wellington
NEW ZEALAND

Phone: +64 4 894 0560
Fax: +64 4 894 0720

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