For poultry farmers focused on maximizing the health and productivity of their free-range flocks, the turnaround period between batches is a critical window of opportunity. While planning and logistics can feel like a significant undertaking, investing in a comprehensive clean of your poultry sheds is paramount to ensuring a flying start for your new birds. Poultry House Cleaning Service Limited emphasizes that a meticulous clean goes beyond simply removing visible debris; it’s about creating a healthy environment free from harmful organic matter.

One of the biggest challenges faced by cleaning crews is the condition of the shed floors. According to Poultry House Cleaning Service Limited, inadequate investment in flooring can lead to significant issues. Cracked, holed, or deteriorated concrete makes thorough cleaning incredibly difficult. While they strive to deliver the best possible results regardless of the floor’s condition, a high-quality floor undeniably facilitates a more effective clean. As their manager points out, the superior cleanliness of newer sheds is often directly attributable to the quality of their flooring. In recognition of this, Poultry House Cleaning Service Limited implements a second washout for sheds with poor-quality floors to mitigate the issue of dirty water misting caused by the compromised surface.

The ultimate goal of any clean-out, as stressed by the company, is the complete removal of all organic matter. The floor is central to this, but every aspect of the shed’s infrastructure, including expansion joints, must be addressed to prevent the harboring of contaminants. Disinfection, the final stage, is rendered ineffective if applied to a dirty surface.

Effective communication and logistical planning are also vital. Poultry House Cleaning Service Limited highlights the importance of knowing the exact re-population schedule to plan their work efficiently. Furthermore, producers need to ensure sufficient water flow and readily available water sources for the intensive wash-out process, as the water needs for cleaning often exceed those for the birds. The company utilizes water bowsers and adheres to Environment Agency regulations for the collection of dirty water.

Their cleaning process begins with a pre-soak using a detergent applied to all surfaces, including equipment, recesses, ceilings, and the floor. Allowing the detergent adequate contact time is crucial for breaking down grime. The subsequent wash-down proceeds from top to bottom, employing various lance settings and turbo-nozzles for optimal soil removal.

Poultry House Cleaning Service Limited acknowledges the cost considerations for producers but cautions against prioritizing the cheapest option. They argue that a lower standard of cleaning can lead to health issues and ultimately impact production, incurring far greater costs in the long run. Investing in quality cleaning should be viewed as an integral part of production costs.

For external cleaning, the company advises careful selection of pressure washing equipment, suggesting that hot water systems offer significant advantages in cleaning effectiveness and reduced cleaning time compared to cold water units. While adequate water pressure is important, consistent water flow is essential, especially for high-volume cleaning. Poultry House Cleaning Service Limited can tailor their equipment to accommodate varying water availability.

Beyond the physical cleaning, Poultry House Cleaning Service Limited emphasizes the importance of proper auditing and range management. Independent audits of disinfection procedures provide producers with valuable insights into the thoroughness of the cleaning process. Selecting the correct disinfectant for the specific turnaround timeframe and potential disease challenges is also crucial, along with the use of desiccants post-cleaning. For laying hens, addressing potential worm issues both inside the shed and on the range is vital, with treatments like Cresol recommended for worm egg eradication.

The company stresses that the cleaning routine should extend to the free-range area. Practices such as harrowing, rotational grazing, attention to drainage, and cleaning under slatted areas all contribute to reducing the worm burden and maintaining a healthy environment. Finally, maintaining clean water supplies through regular drinker line cleaning with hydrogen peroxide-based cleansers and implementing an ongoing water hygiene policy are essential for poultry health. Feed bins should also be thoroughly cleaned or treated to control salmonella risks.

By considering all these factors and partnering with experienced professionals, poultry farmers can ensure a clean and healthy environment, setting their new flock up for a truly flying start.