An outbreak of avian influenza has been confirmed at the historic Abbotsbury swannery in Dorset, where 80 birds have died. This followed last week’s announcement from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra)that restrictions on bird contact would be maintained in England until 28 February. Similar moves were made in Scotland and Wales and there is a Britain-wide ban on poultry shows and gatherings.
For food manufacturers and processors, part of managing the risk of an outbreak is having sound visitor management processes in place. A robust checking-in system not only lets Health and Safety management know who is on site, it can include checks designed to prevent contagious infections as recommended as part of the BRC Global Standards.