Rec R (90)1 transport Cattle

COUNCIL OF EUROPE
COMMITTEE OF MINISTERS
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RECOMMENDATION No. R (90) 1

OF THE COMMITTEE OF MINISTERS TO MEMBER STATES

ON THE TRANSPORT OF CATTLE

(Adopted by the Committee of Ministers on 15 January 1990
at the 432nd meeting of the Ministers' Deputies)

Table of Contents

RECOMMENDATION No. R (90) 1
APPENDIX: CODE OF CONDUCT FOR THE INTERNATIONAL TRANSPORT OF CATTLE
General statement
Definition
I. Pre-transport
II. Loading
III. Transport
IV. Post-transport

Annex A: Transportation by rail
Introduction
II. Loading
III. Transport
IV. Post-transport

Annex B: Transportation by road
I. Pre-transport
II. Loading
III. Transport

Annex C: Transportation by air
Introduction
I. Pre-transport
II. Loading
III. Transport
Annex C-1: Design and construction of containers for the transportation of cattle by air

Annex D: Transportation by water
Introduction
I. Pre-transport
II. Loading
III. Transport

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RECOMMENDATION No. R (90) 1

OF THE COMMITTEE OF MINISTERS TO MEMBER STATES

ON THE TRANSPORT OF CATTLE

The Committee of Ministers, under the terms of Article 15.b of the Statute of the Council of Europe,

Aware that man has a moral obligation to respect all animals and to have due consideration for their capacity for suffering;

Convinced that the requirements for the transport of cattle are not incompatible with their welfare;

Recalling the adoption of common provisions, laid down in the European Convention for the Protection of Animals during International Transport, concluded in 1968;

Recalling also the Additional Protocol to this convention, concluded in 1979 to enable the European Economic Community to become a Party to this instrument;

Motivated by the desire to safeguard, as far as possible, animals in transport from suffering;

Anxious to encourage full respect of the provisions of the convention by all people directly involved in the transport of cattle in the member states;

Considering that the Code of Conduct for the international transport of cattle, as reproduced in the appendix to this recommendation, constitutes a series of guidelines which together can ensure the protection of the welfare of cattle during such transport;

Believing that it may be appropriate, under certain circumstances, to apply relevant sections of this Code of Conduct to cattle being transported within national boundaries,

Recommends the governments of the member states:

i. if they have not already done so, to sign and/or ratify at their earliest convenience the European Convention for the Protection of Animals during International Transport, as amended by the Additional Protocol to this instrument;

ii. to ensure that adequate publicity is given to the Code of Conduct for the transport of cattle, in particular amongst the persons concerned with such transport;

iii. to encourage these persons to take account of the guidelines set out in the Code of Conduct when they prepare or carry out such transport;

iv. to ensure that each international consignment of cattle is accompanied by an appropriate certificate, which should follow the standard international transport certificate elaborated within the European Community for the transport of animals;

v. to encourage their nationals to ensure, when concluding contracts which result in a transport of cattle from non-member states, that before the departure of such transport the conditions are respected throughout the journey, in line with the principles set out in the European convention and with the guidelines listed in the Code of Conduct for the international transport of cattle.

APPENDIX TO RECOMMENDATION NO. R (90) 1: CODE OF CONDUCT FOR THE INTERNATIONAL TRANSPORT OF CATTLE

General statement

In the best welfare interests of the animals, long-distance transport of cattle for slaughter should be avoided whenever possible and be replaced by the transport of carcase meat.

Every effort should be made to avoid any unnecessary delay in the transport of cattle and a consignment of cattle should be detained only when it is strictly necessary for the welfare of the animals.

Annexes A, B, C and D provide additional guidelines for the transport of cattle by rail, road, air and water respectively.

Definition

The term "cattle" includes calves, heifers, cows, bulls and castrates, except where the context requires otherwise.

I. Pre-transport

I.1. Preliminaries

I.1.1. Enquiries. The first step for any person intending to undertake the international transport of animals shall be to find out from the appropriate competent authorities what conditions are in force for transit through or importation into the country or countries concerned (for example, serological tests, vaccination, quarantine, customs procedures, etc.).

I.1.2. Planning of the journey. Careful planning of any journey is essential: the route, time, likely weather conditions, distances, opening hours of customs offices, stages and stopping places must be considered beforehand, as well as any facilities which might be required for tending, feeding, watering and milking the animals if such facilities are not carried on the transport unit. Care must also be taken to ensure that all necessary health certificates have been obtained and that the route followed does not jeopardise the health certification in any way.

I.1.3. Quantity of food. It is usually preferable to carry a surplus of food on a long journey in case of any unforeseen delays.

I.1.4. Notification. Early notification of the expected time of arrival at control posts will help minimise delays. Therefore consignor, carrier and consignee should make every effort to ensure that this is done.

I.2. Preparation of the animal

I.2.1. Disease. For cattle not intended to be slaughtered directly, immunisation and/or treatment for internal and external parasites should be considered well in advance of any export. Immunisations should be administered in accordance with the national regulations in the country of destination and, where appropriate, the countries of origin and transit, taking into account the period which will elapse before the required immunity can develop.

I.2.2. Acclimatisation. Where possible, cattle should be acclimatised to the type and size of pen, crate or box in which they will be transported. Cattle should be accustomed to being handled before shipment. If mixing of social groups is unavoidable, this should be carried out at least twenty-four hours prior to transport.

I.2.3. Group Size. The size of the groups within the transport unit should not be too large and should be determined in relation to the facilities available, the means of transport used and the need to avoid such problems as instability of the means of transport and smothering the animals. Adult bulls should be transported separately, unless they have been reared in compatible groups or have otherwise been accustomed to each other.

I.2.4 Feeding and watering. It is necessary to prepare animals for the journey ahead of them by suitable feeding. They should be accustomed to the food which will be supplied during the journey. Before embarking on a journey, animals should be given only a small amount to cat, and a moderate amount to drink.

A record of the feeding and watering times should accompany the animals throughout the journey.

I.2.5. Identification. Each animal must have a legible identification number which must be recorded accurately on any accompanying documentation.

I.2.6. Tethering. If the animals are tied this should be done with a quick-release knot. Supplementary ropes should be kept in reserve. It is not allowed to tie an animal by its nose-ring or by its horns.

I.2.7. Rest. Apart from journeys of a short duration, all animals should be allowed a period free from outside disturbance before they are loaded for international transportation.

I.2.8. Sedation. Tranquillisers shall not be used unless strictly necessary. If they are used, the pharmaceutical name of the drug, dosage rate, dates and times of administration should be noted on the documents accompanying the animal, such as the International Animal Transport Certificate (IATC). Tranquillisers should be administered only under veterinary supervision or by another competent person under veterinary guidance,

It shall be borne in mind that not all cattle react in the same way to sedation; for instance one animal will remain standing whilst another may lie down. If animals become recumbent, care must be taken to ensure that they are not harmed, for example by the effects of the motion of the transport or because they are trampled.

I.2.9. Cows in milk. It is desirable that cows in full lactation are not transported over long periods.

Cows in milk should be milked immediately before loading.

I.3. Preparation of the transport unit

1.3.1. Cleanliness. It is important that any part of the transport unit which has been or shall be in contact with animals, including any receptacle, equipment or fitting, be cleaned and if necessary disinfected before loading and after unloading. Care should also be taken by all personnel in contact with animals during international carriage that their outer clothing and footwear are changed, washed or cleaned at the end of the journey and before contact with any other animal.

I.3.2. Accommodation in the transport unit. The accommodation in the transport unit and the loading conditions should be in accordance with the requirements for the welfare of the animals to be transported, as set out in II and III hereafter.

I.4. Designation of the person in charge

I.4.1. Attendant. Each consignment of cattle should be accompanied by an attendant who is in charge of looking after the animals and feeding and watering them. However, an attendant is not required when the consignor and/or consignee have ensured that the animals will be looked after, fed and watered at the stopovers throughout the journey. The attendant should be suitably trained in how to ensure the welfare of the animals in his charge and be conversant with administrative requirements and other formalities. If large numbers are being carried, there should be a sufficient number of attendants to care for them, with one person in charge of the whole consignment. When the attendant considers that veterinary assistance is needed, he should obtain it as quickly as possible.

I.5. Tasks of the official veterinarian

I.5.1. Documents. Since incomplete documents can cause considerable delay, they must be completed legibly and with absolute accuracy. It is not acceptable to alter official documents, but errors or proper erasures must be stamped and initialled by the signing official veterinarian. Documents shall be completed in a way which will make them understandable in the country of origin, the country of destination and in any country of transit.

1.5.2. Fit animals. Only animals which are fit for the intended journey shall be subjected to international transportation, and the nature, length and duration of the proposed journey should be taken into account when deciding the degree of fitness required.

Excessive stress during transport may lead to increased susceptibility to diseases, parturition problems, failure to come into oestrus, injuries or weight loss.

Animals which are emaciated or lame, and animals suffering from any condition which might be aggravated by the motion of the means of transport may only be transported if authorised by the official veterinarian in the interest of the animal.

Cows and heifers which are likely to give birth during transport shall not be considered fit for transportation. Before deciding on the transport of animals in late pregnancy, the need for such transport should be given special consideration. Cows and heifers which have given birth within the previous forty-eight hours, as well as young calves whose navels have not healed, shall not be transported.

I.5.3. Stocking densities. Notwithstanding the recommended stocking densities as given in the annexes, the official veterinarian should be prepared to give advice and can require the off-loading of some animals if he considers that there is overcrowding. He should also be prepared to advise on penning if the animals are too loosely packed and might be thrown about by the motion of the transport unit.

I.5.4. Emergency killing. The official veterinarian should satisfy himself that, in accordance with the requirements of Chapter III.4, an instrument in working order for the emergency killing of animals is at hand in the transport unit, where applicable, and that the person in charge understands how and in what circumstances to use it.

II. Loading

II.1. Facilities

II.1.1. Means of loading. Loading should take place from a properly constructed ramp, lift or loading bay, though appropriate manual lifting is permissible if the animals are small enough, and even desirable in the case of young calves which might have difficulty in negotiating a ramp. All loading facilities should be suitable for their purpose, stable and maintained in a good state of repair. Ramps should have adequate sides fitted for lateral protection.

All ramps and walking surfaces should be of an anti-slip design. Foot battens or a sufficient covering of sand or litter may be used as necessary. Efforts should be made to minimise the slope of the ramp; horizontal loading is preferable.

II.2. Light

II.2.1. Lighting. The interior of the transport unit should be well lit at loading so that the cattle can see where they are going.

II.3. Handling

II.3.1. Treatment. Loading and unloading are the activities during which injuries and stress are most likely to occur, and, once loaded, the animals tend to settle down. Noise and harassment during loading should be avoided, as should the use of excessive force. Cattle should be treated gently and calmly in order to keep the inevitable unrest and agitation within limits, and in order to protect the animals from unnecessary pain, distress and injury. Electric goads or instruments based on the electric shock principle should be avoided as far as possible.

Animals shall not be lifted by the head, horns, legs or tail during loading or unloading.

III. Transport

III.1. Conditions

III.1.1. Construction and design. Construction of containers, receptacles, vehicles, fittings, etc. must be strong enough to contain the animals' weight, to prevent the animals escaping or failing out, and to withstand the stresses of movement. Fittings should be designed for quick and easy operation.

Any transport unit should have the means to provide adequate protection from the weather.

Floors should be designed to ensure that the bedding is maintained reasonably clean and dry, and, where necessary, be fitted with drainage and with a system to recover faeces and urine. The materials used for construction should be such that they are not liable to corrosion.

Parts of the aircraft, vessel, receptacle, vehicle, etc. in which the animals are accommodated or through which they are moved should be free of obstructions and hazards which could cause injury. Deck and floor surfaces should provide a good foothold, and where necessary be fitted with foot battens.

Any transport unit shall allow the requirements for stocking density set out in III.1.4. below to be respected. There should be adequate clear headroom, and space above the head of each animal for air circulation/ventilation.

The design of the ventilation system shall allow the supply of sufficient fresh air, taking account of the number and size of the animals being carried, and the climatic conditions expected for the journey. Where the animals are carried in a fully enclosed space, the ventilation system shall also allow an exchange of air by mechanical means, unless renewal can be ensured by other means.

For transport during a long period of time, room shall be provided to store, if appropriate, reserve supplies to feed and water the animals at appropriate times.

III.1.2. Securing. Containers, receptacles and pens must be so secured as to prevent their being displaced by the movement of the transport.

III.1.3. Lighting. There should be a means of lighting, fixed or portable, sufficient for general inspection of the animals when this is necessary during loading, carriage and unloading, and for feeding and watering.

III.1.4. Stocking density. Each animal shall have sufficient room to stand and lie down in its natural position unless special conditions for the protection of the animals require to the contrary. Under-stocking can result in injury if the animals are thrown about by the motion of the transport, and in these circumstances extra partitions should be provided for support, bearing in mind that these partitions would encroach upon the available space.

When calculating space requirements, the size and condition of the animals, the weather, and the nature and length of the journey must be taken into account.

Figures, which are considered to be satisfactory, are given in the annexes to this code of conduct.

III.1.5. Ventilation. The air circulation in transporters should be such as:

- to provide enough oxygen for the animals,
- to remove smell and gases, and
- to control temperature and humidity.

The supply of fresh air must be checked regularly and adjusted when necessary, but the animals should not be placed in excessively strong currents of air. It should be borne in mind that solid partitions can prevent the loss of heat produced by the animals and interfere with the circulation of air.

III.1.6. Temperature. When animals are to be transported in very hot or cold conditions, care should be taken to avoid extreme temperatures; special consideration should be given to the construction of the transport unit, its mechanism for ventilation and for regulating the temperature, the speed of travel, the number of stops to be made en route as well as the number and age of the animals being carried.

III.1.7. Feeding and watering. All animals shall be fed and watered at least once in every twenty-four-hour period. In case of unavoidable delay, this period may be extended for a short time if this is manifestly in the interest of the animals. Young animals need to be fed and watered more frequently. Weather conditions may also warrant shorter watering intervals. When calculating these intervals, account should be taken of the last feed and watering before loading, and the first possible feed and watering after unloading.

During carriage, only a maintenance ration should be provided. Care must be taken to provide a type of food suitable for the age of the animals being transported, and in quantities that will not disturb the digestion. It should be noted that adult cattle may drink up to 50 litres of water every day, and that cows in milk may require as much as 100 to 150 litres of water daily.

Sealed transports

If the transport unit is sealed for customs purposes, then either suitable access must be available for inspection of the animals and for the introduction of food and water, or the seals must be removed and subsequently replaced in the presence of an officer of the competent authority so that inspection, feeding and watering can take place.

III.1.8. Positioning of animals. Animals being carried together (apart from cows or heifers with calves at foot) should be of approximately equal size and weight. Animals belonging to different species and, when necessary, cattle with and without horns should be separated from each other during transport. In the transport unit, the following should be carried separately from other animals:

a. bulls over 18 months unless they have been reared in compatible groups or otherwise accustomed to each other ;

b. a cow or heifer with calves at foot;

c. any animal which is antagonistic to other animals.

From the point of view of animal welfare, the direction in which the animal is carried seems to be of minor importance in road, rail and air transportation. If the animals are placed at right angles to the direction of travel, adjustable partition boards should be mounted to help the animals keep their balance. Such partition boards must be appropriate to the size of the animals, and be fixed in a way which prevents the animals from being injured.

When the animals are tethered, appropriate measures shall be taken to allow them when necessary to lie down, to cat and to drink and to prevent their being strangled if they fall over. Tethers must be strong enough to withstand normal use and be fastened to devices provided for this purpose.

Calves, young cattle and cattle which are not used to being tethered may be transported untethered in subdivided pens.

III.1.9. Equipment. During transportation, adequate and suitable bedding material shall be supplied. This should have absorbent properties, particularly where straw is used as the upper layer.

III.1.10. Facilities for feeding, watering and milking during transport. At posts where sanitary control is exercised and animals in significant numbers are regularly transported, sufficient facilities shall be available for the resting, feeding, watering and milking of the number of animals which may be expected.

III.1.11. Unloading and reloading en route. If the transport unit is not equipped for feeding and watering the animals over a long period of time, provisions should be made for unloading and reloading en route for that purpose (see also III.1.7.). The animals should be allowed a period free from outside disturbance,. to feed and drink, and to rest.

III.1.12. Access. Provision should be made for the possibility to feed, to water and, if necessary, to milk the animals as well as to observe and inspect them, and, depending on the means of transport and the conditions in which it is being carried out, to have access to them at suitable intervals. Access to the pens may be required either through side doors, passageways or walkways. It has been found that access through one group of animals to reach another group is not satisfactory.

III.2. Duration and interruption of the journey

III.2.1. Duration. Subject to careful planning and all facilities being available, cattle can be transported for long periods without problems. It is recommended however that they should be inspected approximately every six hours and especially when the welfare of the animals could be in doubt. Every opportunity should also be taken to inspect the animals, for example at customs posts and whenever the transport unit or weather conditions change.

III.2.2. Delays. The animals shall be transported to their destination as soon as possible and delays, particularly in transhipment and marshalling yards, shall be reduced to a minimum. If delays occur, adequate care shall be given to the animals particularly in relation to feeding, watering, milking and ventilation.

Consignments of animals should be given priority at frontier posts, in ports, at airports and in other places where delays may be expected to occur.

III.3. Care during transport

III.3.1. Care. Cows in milk shall be milked at intervals of not more than twelve hours. The attendant should remain with the transport, or be available at the designated stopping places. All attendants should be trained to have a sufficient knowledge of the needs of the animals regarding feeding and watering, tending, milking and air circulation in different climatic conditions.

Smoking shall be forbidden in compartments containing animals.

III.3.2. Treatment. Whenever possible, sick and injured animals shall be separated and unloaded, and treated by a veterinarian or by another competent person. If an animal gives birth during transport, it shall be separated and transported together with the new-born calf.

III.4. Emergency killing

III.4.1. Air and water. In ships and aircraft transporting cattle, an appropriate and effective means for the emergency killing of animals shall be at hand and in working order.

Emergency killing should be carried out by a veterinarian or other competent person.

III.4.2. Rail and road. If, during rail or road transport, animals need to be killed, a veterinarian or other competent person should be called upon.

III.5. Tasks of the official veterinarian

III.5.1. Interruption of the transport. When, during transport, an official veterinarian becomes aware of problems, he must not allow the transport to proceed unless measures have been taken to ensure that the welfare of the animals is protected.

IV. Post-transport

IV.1. Unloading

IV.1.1. Care. On arrival at their destination, the animals should be unloaded as soon as possible, offered water and, if necessary, food and be allowed to rest. All animals should be examined closely at unloading and veterinary assistance obtained if necessary.

After prolonged periods of transport (thirty-six hours or more) the health of the animals should be monitored for four or five days - except where they are to be slaughtered on arrival or shortly afterwards.

If at the destination a new diet is given, a gradual changeover is recommended.

IV.1.2. Responsibility. The attendant must bring to the attention of the person in charge at the destination any aspect of the journey which might affect the future welfare of the animals: the last feeding, watering and milking times and the relevant details of any treatment carried out, including any medication administered. The attendant should not leave the premises of destination until he is satisfied that a suitable person has taken charge of the animals.

IV.1.3. Report. The consignee should report back to his authorities on any problems relating to a consignment of cattle so that international transportation can be kept under constant review and the welfare of the animals improved as more information becomes available.

IV.2. Facilities

IV.2.1. General. Similar facilities are required for unloading as those required for loading. Efforts should be made to minimise the slope of the ramp. Where sides are fitted to ramps these should preferably be made up of solid boards.

IV.2.2. Care. If rest and recovery are needed for the animals after transport, suitable facilities should be provided for these, as well as for feeding and watering.

IV.3. Tasks of the official veterinarian at unloading

IV.3.1. Liaison. The official veterinarian in the country of transit or the country of destination should notify any problems which arose during the journey to his authorities who should then report back to the authorities in the country of origin and in the country of transit where appropriate. Close liaison between the consignee and his veterinary authorities and between the different veterinary authorities involved is also essential.

Annex A: Transportation by rail

Introduction

As far as the welfare of cattle is concerned, the existing regulations of the International Union of Railways (IUR/UIC-Codex) are included in the general part of the Code of Conduct or in this annex. In some cases, the following guidelines may be more precise or more restrictive than the IUR/UIC-Codex.

II. Loading

II.1. Facilities

Cattle should be loaded and/or unloaded at railway stations which are adequately equipped for that purpose. Railway stations where cattle are regularly loaded and/or unloaded must be equipped with adequate ramps or bridges (fixed or movable), whilst enclosures or pens must be available which have an even, solid floor, facilities for tethering, feeding and watering cattle; an adequate part of these enclosures or pens should be covered.

II.1.1. Means of loading. Where animals are walked aboard the wagon, the ramps should have side protection of sufficient height and sufficiently covered at the bottom so as to prevent injuries.

The surface of loading ramps must be covered with non-slip material and must be provided with horizontal square-edged slats approximately 4,5 cm high at intervals of approximately 25 cm.

The following criteria are considered to be satisfactory for loading ramps:

Slope

Height for side gates

Step from ground to ramp
and from top of ramp to rail wagon

Space between top of ramp
and rail wagon

Not more than 20°
and possibly less for descent

Not less than 1,3 m

Not more than 25 cm

Not more than 3 cm

III. Transport

III.1. Conditions

The animals must be transported as quickly as possible to their destination; extended stops must be avoided, particularly in marshalling yards and during transhipment.

When the amount of traffic so justifies, the railway management must endeavour to form regular or special trains for the conveyance of the animals, or to forward blocks of wagons by fast trains. When there is less traffic, appropriate freight trains may be used, and, exceptionally, appropriate passenger trains.

III.1.1. Construction and design of wagons

Length, width and height of the space available for animals should be displayed on wagons. Appropriate indications or symbols on the outside of the wagon should make clear that live animals are being carried.

Wagons must be suitable for the transport of cattle throughout the journey. They must be designed so that the animals are completely secure and cannot escape.

Wagons should have a barrel roof, and must be provided, along each side and near the roof, with, depending on the length of the wagon, either two or four closable openings of at least 40 x 30 cm. These openings must be protected to avoid an animal putting its head through.

In addition, when outside temperatures are high or expected to be high, wagons should if possible be equipped with a double or insulated roof. Wagons shall have facilities enabling the doors to be held open at a width of not more than 35 cm, depending on the size of the animals carried.

The inside walls should be of wood or other suitable material ; they should be provided with enough rings or bars at a suitable height, to which the animals can be secured. Suitable provisions must be made for securing the partition walls.

If during longer journeys the animals are watered and fed inside the wagons, these should be equipped at an adequate height with a number of hatches sufficient for the number of animals carried. The hatches must be wide and high enough for buckets to be passed through easily. During transport these hatches must be closed. Where such facilities are not available, satisfactory alternative methods of feeding and watering must be provided.

III.1.4. Stocking density. The following indicative figures are considered to be satisfactory when cattle are being transported:

Category

Approximate weight
in kg

Area per animal
in m²

Small calves

Medium-sized calves

Heavy calves

Medium-sized cattle

Heavy cattle

Very heavy cattle

110

200

325

550

> 700

0,30 to 0,40

0,40 to 0,70

0,70 to 0,95

0,95 to 1,30

1,30 to 1,60

[> 1,60]

These figures may vary, depending not only on the weight and size of the animals, but also on their condition, the weather and the probable length of the journey. For example, on hot, humid days or on journeys lasting more than twenty-four hours, the indicated floorspace may need to be increased.

If tethered animals are loaded crosswise, enclosures for groups of five to six adult animals must be partitioned in order to support and stabilise the animals during transport.

Apart from the required standing or lying area in the vehicle, the animals must also have enough room overhead to enable them to travel in a natural position without injuring their head or back, and to give them enough air when the vehicle is not moving.

III.1.7. Feeding and watering. If during the journey the animals cannot be watered and fed inside the vehicle, they must be unloaded at suitable places so that they can be watered and fed.

III.3. Care during transport

III.3.1. Care. Drivers of road vehicles should ensure a smooth and considerate journey and avoid abrupt changes of speed or direction.

If a stop is inevitable, the vehicle should in hot weather be parked in the shade and in cold weather in a sheltered place, bearing in mind in both cases the need to maintain adequate ventilation.

Vehicles should not be parked on a steep incline.

Annex C: Transportation by air

Introduction

As far as the welfare of cattle is concerned, the existing Live Animals Regulations, drawn up by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), are included in the general part of the Code of Conduct or in this annex. In some cases, the following guidelines may be more precise or more restrictive than the IATA regulations.

I. Pre-transport

1.1. Preliminaries

I.1.2. Planning of the journey. Planning the transport of animals by air involves special arrangements for loading and unloading and, when applicable, for transfer from one aircraft to another or for reloading at a stopover.

Arrangements shall be made to provide care for the animals during the journey, including feeding and watering when appropriate. It is especially important, where a consignment is not to be accompanied by an attendant, to plan for such attention at a stopover.

The effect of any temperature variation must be considered when there are significant climate differences between departure, stopover and destination airports. It may be necessary to use an alternative route to avoid extremes of climate at stopovers. In addition, it is desirable to arrange for flights to arrive at stopovers and final destination at times when the temperatures are expected to be reasonable.

I.1.4. Notification. The captain of the aircraft shall be informed by means of a notification to captain (NOTOC) about the presence of livestock shipments aboard the aircraft before the start of the journey so that adequate ventilation and temperature setting can be ensured.

En route and destination airports shall be informed in view of special arrangements to be made ensuring the welfare of the animals.

I.2. Preparation of the animal

I.2.8. Sedation. Experience has shown that there is considerable risk in sedating animals inasmuch as the reaction of various species, especially at high altitudes, cannot be foreseen and it can, therefore, do more harm than good. During the flight, tranquillisers should only be administered with the knowledge and consent of the captain. Tranquillisers should only be administered by a veterinarian, or an animal attendant who has been properly instructed in their use.

I.4. Designation of the person in charge

I.4.1. Attendant. It is preferable that cattle shipped by air be accompanied by one or more attendants, as appropriate to the number of animals. Attendants must be conversant with the relevant guidelines and standards of care contained in the current edition of the IATA Live Animals Regulations.

Such transportation should preferably take place in accessible cargo compartments to allow effective attendance during all phases of air transport.

Special attention should be given to the carriage of adult bulls with regard to flight safety.

II. Loading

II.1. Facilities

Adequate facilities must be available to receive the animals, to pen them if necessary, to take care of them, to feed, water and milk them if necessary, to inspect them and to load them.

Cattle should not be exposed to excessive noise of aircraft and other machinery for longer than is absolutely necessary.

Only personnel experienced in the handling of animals should handle the cattle. When the animals are tired at the time of arrival at the airport, the official veterinarian can decide to give them an adequate rest before loading. This might even imply that the animals cannot be taken on a particular flight.

II. 1. 1. Means of loading. The following criteria are considered to be satisfactory for loading ramps:

Slope

Height of side gates

Step from ground to ramp
and from top of ramp
to aircraft

Space between top of ramp
and aircraft

Not more than 20°
and possibly less for descent

Not less than 1,3 m

Not more than 25 cm

Not more than 3 cm

The ramp should be provided with foot battens.

Animals should be loaded on to the aircraft as close as possible to the time of take-off. They should be so positioned that their unloading and reloading during stopovers can be avoided.

Where cattle are loaded in containers this should be carried out away from the aircraft, preferably in a loading shed or in an animal holding area.

Animals shall not be stowed in the vicinity of other cargo which can cause them harm: for example radioactive materials, shipments packed in dry ice, cryogenic liquids, poisonous or infectious substances, irritants.

III. Transport

III.1. Conditions

III.1.1. Construction and design. If containers are used, their design and construction should follow the principles laid down for that purpose in the current edition of the IATA Live Animal Regulations (see Annex C-1). They must meet the following requirements:

a. Strong construction and free of nails or other projections likely to cause injury. Reinforcing metal plates should be covered by protective material. Any catches used should be simple and easy to operate.

b. The floor shall be constructed of a material which prevents the animal from slipping. The floor of a container must be leak-proof and strong enough to withstand the weight of the animal. Sufficient suitable material must be spread on the floor to absorb all excreta.

c. The design should allow access by an attendant to the head and tail of the animal during the flight,

d. The dimensions of each container shall be proportioned according to the size of the animal in order to restrict excessive movements of the animal.

e. The container must be equipped with devices allowing it to be tied down to the aircraft pallet or floor. A net assembly used to secure the container on to an aircraft pallet must not touch the animal.

f. Double/triple container: the height and contour are dependent upon the aircraft in which it will be carried. The canopy over the heads of the animals may be constructed of metal, fibreglass, canvas or other suitable material. Cattle must be separated from each other by means of partition walls, which should be 1,50 m high and strong enough to bear the animals' weight.

g. The container should be capable of providing adequate ventilation, including at the lower level of each section of the container where noxious gases can accumulate.

III.1.4. Stocking density. Stocking density can be calculated in two ways:

- the weight of the animal in relation to the available floor area;
- the need of oxygen or ventilation required per kg/animal in relation to the ventilation capacity.

Stocking density for cattle in relation to floor area

The following indicative figures are considered to be satisfactory when cattle are being transported:

Category

Approximate weight
in kg

Area per animal
in m²

Calves

50
70

0,23
0,28

Cattle

300
500

0,84
1,27

III.1.5. Ventilation

Stocking density for cattle in relation to ventilation requirements

It is advised that during combined transport of cattle and passengers, adequate ventilation should be provided, even if the number of passengers does not necessitate such ventilation.

As ventilation capacity of most airplanes may be limited during take-off, landing and when the airplane is on the ground, any calculations must take these factors into account. When determining the ventilation capacity of an aircraft, up-to-date performance information, and not merely the manufacturer's original specifications, must be considered.

Aircraft carrying cattle should preferably be equipped with forced ventilation. For aircraft carrying cattle, the ability to supply 0,16 to 0,19m³/kg/hr of air is required. This indicates the following requirements by weight:

500 kg 80 to 95 m³/hr
600 kg 96 to 114 m³/hr
700 kg 112 to 130 m³/hr
800 kg 128 to 152 m³/hr

For the transport of cattle in belly holds, particular account must be taken of air pressure, temperature and cubic capacity. There shall be sufficient space all around the cattle container for air circulation and this shall not be obstructed.

III.1.6. Temperature. A combination of high temperature and high relative humidity poses a risk to animals. All measures should be taken to avoid temperature rising above 25° C and relative humidity exceeding 80% for periods of one hour or more.

If necessary, additional ventilation should be provided when the aircraft is on the ground.

III.1.11. Access. As far as possible, the attendant should have access to the animals during all phases of the flight.

Where continuous access is not possible in flight, access shall be available when the aircraft is on the ground, for instance by suitable positioning of the containers.

III.3. Care during transport

III.3.1. Care. During unscheduled stops and in other unforeseen situations, the attendant or the captain should take all necessary steps to ensure the welfare of the animals. This may include feeding, watering and milking the animals.

III.4. Emergency killing

III.4.1. Emergency killing. Emergency killing of an animal may only take place in consultation with and under the responsibility of the captain of the aircraft.

Means of emergency killing are:

- a suitable central nervous system depressant, or
- a captive bolt followed by a suitable central nervous system depressant or other means of ensuring death.

Decompression of the aircraft may not be used as a means of emergency killing.

Annex C-1: Design and construction of containers for the transportation of cattle by air

Annex D: Transportation by water

Introduction

There are three basic types of shipment method by which cattle can be transported by water:

i. Ro-Ro vessels: in a vehicle, or other container moved on wheels, which is driven or towed on and off a Roll-on-Roll-off (Ro-Ro) vessel.

ii. Vessels designed to carry livestock: in a vessel which is adapted and has special fittings for carrying cattle "on the hoof". Cattle are usually walked on and off, and carried in individual stalls or in penned enclosures.

iii. Other cargo vessels: in boxes, pens, crates or containers carried on cargo vessels as a part of the total freight. The boxes, pens, etc. may either be constructed ashore and lifted on board or constructed on the vessel.

Each of these shipment types may be further subdivided according to whether the animals are carried within an enclosed deck, or on an "open" exposed deck.

The length of voyage and size of vessel can vary considerably.

I. Pre-transport

I.1. Preliminaries

I.1.2. Planning of the journey. Sufficient supplies of wholesome food, fresh water and litter should be carried for the anticipated length of the voyage. Reserve supplies are recommended in case of delay due to weather, mechanical failure or other cause. Food, litter and water should be stowed so that their quality cannot deteriorate during the voyage. Appropriate feed and drinking utensils should be provided. If it becomes necessary to supply unfamiliar-tasting manufactured water during the voyage, this should be introduced gradually.

Cattle should not be carried when weather conditions anticipated for the voyage are such that the animals might suffer or be injured, for example, by excessive motion of the vessel, water shipped on board, strong winds, or damage to or displacement of the transport unit. It should, however, be borne in mind that the ship's master is ultimately responsible for the animals' welfare during the voyage.

Masters, officers and the crew of vessels may be inexperienced in the carriage of cattle and therefore require special instructions before the start of the voyage. Where appropriate, it is recommended that consignors give ships' masters clear written instructions concerning the feeding, watering, general care, emergency killing and, if necessary, milking of the cattle. Masters should be informed about where they can, if necessary, obtain veterinary advice.

I.1.4. Notification. It is important to ensure that the operators, masters and crews of vessels are made fully aware of livestock shipments before the start of the voyage, so that they can make any special arrangements needed to ensure proper stowage, securing, ventilation and access.

Consignors and vehicle operators should notify the shipping company at the time of making the booking, and attendants and drivers should ensure that the vessel's cargo/loading officer is aware that the transport unit contains a live cargo.

I.2. Preparation of the animal

I.2.4. Feeding and watering. Before any transport, the animals should be accustomed to the food they will be fed on the journey.

I.3. Preparation of the transport unit

I.3.1. Cleanliness. Those parts of a vessel where animals are stowed or through which they are moved should be so constructed as to enable these areas to be kept in a sanitary condition and to be regularly cleansed, and disinfected when necessary.

I.4. Designation of the person in charge

I.4.1. Attendant. A sufficient number of experienced attendants, who could be part of the ship's normal complement, should be provided for the voyage, taking into account its length and the number of cattle to be carried; in the case of Ro-Ro vessels, the vehicle driver could act as attendant.

II. Loading

II.1. Facilities

II.1.1. Means of loading

Ro-Ro vessels

The individual circumstances of each vessel, voyage and vehicle load may vary considerably. Generally, it is preferable to load a livestock transporter as late as possible and, where feasible, to unload it first. This will reduce the risk of harmful effects of a build-up of exhaust fumes from other vehicles.

Refrigerated and other high-sided vehicles should not be parked alongside the livestock vehicle.

Vessels designed to carry livestock

a. Where cattle are walked on and off the vessel, suitable gangways, ramps and walkways should be provided between quayside and the vessel's livestock decks. Ship-to-shore gangways and ramps between different levels in the vessel should be fitted with foot battens and should not be unduly steep. The slope angle with the horizontal should not exceed 30 degrees, and a smaller angle is to be preferred where cattle are descending, The height of tide at the berth should be considered when arranging the time for loading/unloading, as this will affect the slope of the ramp.

A gangway/ramp/walkway width of about 1 m will permit the passage of one animal at a time. Sides should be guarded to a height of about 1,3 m. Doorways should be sufficiently wide and high for the animals to pass through without injury.

b. Where animals are lifted on and off the vessel, a suitably constructed, strong and secure loading box should be used. The animals should be securely tied during this operation, and it is best if they cannot see out of the box whilst it is being lifted in the air. The crane driver must be made aware that he is lifting a live cargo, and he should ensure that the operation is undertaken steadily and without unnecessary swaying or jolting.

Other cargo vessels

If it is intended to lift the cattle on and off the vessel in its transit boxes, these should be strong enough for the purpose. Otherwise, a loading box (see II.1.1.b above) should be used.

III. Transport

III.1. Conditions

III.1.1. Construction and design. Ship motion and the effects of wind and sea can impose considerable extra strain on livestock containers, vehicles, fittings and equipment, so construction and design should take this into account.

Excess water is liable to accumulate from rainfall, sea or spray over the deck and washing-down water. Adequate deck and floor drainage is therefore important.

Other cargo vessels

i. Deck boxes, pens and stalls. Construction can be of timber, metal or similar materials (see III.1.8 hereafter)

The structure should be strong enough to protect the animals from wind, spray and sea, and for securing to the vessel. It should normally be fitted with a watertight roof.

There should be proper access for moving the animals in and out of it, and for attendants to perform their duties.

ii. Shipping containers. These can be successfully used for carrying cattle provided that a. a suitable type is chosen, b. they are fitted out appropriately, and c. their stowage is well planned. The basic principles outlined in this annex apply. In addition:

a. Types:

Flat Rack: Load platform, with ends only.

Open-sided: Load platform, with ends and top. Sides may be fitted with steel grid gates, timber battens, and/or PVC curtains.

Livestock: Permanently converted and fitted out. (Very few exist.)

b. Fitting out:

Stalls, pens or boxes as described at III.1.8 below should be fitted within and secured to the container framework.

Wherever possible, the construction of stalls and pens should take advantage of the container framework. The stall/box fronts should normally be in the long side of the container.

III.1.2. Securing. The containers, receptacles, vehicles, etc. in which cattle are carried should be secured as necessary, so that they cannot be displaced by the motion of the vessel or the effects of the wind and sea.

Ro-Ro vessels

When anticipated weather conditions and ship motion demand, cattle transport units should be properly secured before the start of the voyage to prevent them moving or overturning. The transport unit should have sufficient and strong securing points fitted for the attachment of lashing devices.

III.1.4. Stocking density

Ro-Ro vessels

The provisions in III.1.4 of Annex B apply.

Other vessels

The following indicative figures are considered to be satisfactory when cattle are being transported: