Cleaning and disinfection tips for small flock owners

Cleaning and disinfection helps to prevent the transmission of disease agents from contaminated equipment, such as footwear, tools and cages. Proper cleaning and disinfection procedures are a vital component of any biosecurity program for small flocks.

Most disinfectants will not work properly if there is a presence of organic matter. Therefore, all organic material must be completely removed before applying a proper disinfectant to the items that are being cleaned.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) recommends a simple, three-step cleaning and disinfection process. The following procedures should be completed outside or in a well-ventilated room, wearing protective eyewear and gloves.

1. Remove all organic material from footwear, tools and other equipment with a brush or sponge, using detergent and clean, hot water.

2. Scrub again, using a solution of 50 millilitres of household bleach (sodium hypochlorite, 5%-6%) and 4 litres of water. Let stand until the surface is dry.

3. Lastly, scrub with hot water and common household disinfectant following the label directions.