Important points about this online guide

This online guide is intended for all persons around the world who may need to humanely slaughter animals.

In conjunction with reading the principles of operation described in this online guide, viewers are responsible for consulting the relevant legislation. It is not possible to include in this guide the legal requirements of every country or area.

This guide is intended to instruct operators in the proper and humane use of equipment for handling, stunning and killing animals. In order to do this and to safeguard the welfare of the animals to be killed, it is necessary for the guide to be both thorough and illustrated. As such, the following pages may contain descriptions, images and videos of dead animals or stunned animals in the process of dying. The material is presented in an objective and professional manner but please do not read further if you feel you may be negatively affected by the content.

In developing and publishing such guidance, the Humane Slaughter Association (HSA) may indicate its support for methods which it believes to be humane but does not give endorsement to organisations or to specific products, makes or brands of equipment.

The HSA is not responsible for the content of external websites or publications referenced within this online guide, nor do those external publications necessarily reflect the views of the HSA.

Livestock handling and killing systems are potentially dangerous. You are advised to follow your employer’s recommendations and procedures with particular care. If you are in any doubt as to any aspect of the safe operation of systems for handling, transporting, stunning and killing animals, you should consult your manager and the manufacturer. In no circumstances can the HSA accept any liability for the way in which systems are used, or for any loss, damage, death or injury caused thereby, since this depends on circumstances wholly outside of the HSA's control.

The HSA aims to provide up-to-date and accurate information. If you have suggestions for the content of this online guide please inform the HSA via info@hsa.org.uk or telephone or write to the office.

Next: Legislation