Guidelines

America's egg farmers must follow several guidelines to minimize the hen's injury prior to the arrival at the slaughter plant. Some of the animal welfare guidelines include no crowding and piling of birds in corners when catching them and assuring people that are involved in catching the hens are well trained in (hen) handling techniques. Usage of the lowest light level possible (to help keep the birds calm) should be practiced and hanging racks are not allowed to be used to move the birds.

Hen houses must be designed to enable transport vehicles and/or transport containers to be moved close to the locations where the birds will be caught or released so that the distance the birds are hand carried is minimized. Transport vehicles must be clean and climate conditions must be comfortable for the hens.