July 2017

ProgramHandbook: Exportationof LiveAnimals,Hatching

Eggs, andAnimalGermplasm fromtheUnitedStates

Introduction

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) of theUnited StatesDepartment of

Agriculture (USDA)regulatesthe exportationof live animals,hatchingeggs, and animal

germplasm. The regulations are codified in Title 9 of the Code of Regulations (CFR),part 91,

“Exportation of Live Animals, Hatching Eggs or Other Embryonated Eggs, Animal Semen, Animal

Embryos, and Gametesfrom theUnited States.”

These export regulations, which are referred to below as “the regulations,” require use of

disinfectants approvedby theAdministrator of APHIS. As provided in the regulations,the

Administrator will approve a disinfectantforthe specifieduse upon determining that it is

effective against the pathogensthat may be spread by the animals and, ifthe disinfectant is a

chemicaldisinfectant,that it isregistered or exempted forthe specified use by the U.S.

EnvironmentalProtection Agency (EPA). This handbook discusses disinfectants approved by the

Administratorforuse under §§ 91.6, 91.12, and 91.13. Other disinfectantsmay also be

approvedby theAdministratorin accordance with the regulations.

The regulations also contain requirementsfor exportinspection facilities, exportisolation

facilities, and ocean vessels. This handbook includes guidance on how to comply with these

requirements. The guidance isintended to assist owners and operatorsby describing

acceptable waysto meetthe requirements. Themethodsdescribed in thishandbook are one

way, but notthe only way,to complywith the requirements. Owners and operatorsmay

submit alternative plansfor complyingwith the requirementsto APHIS for evaluation and

approval. Alternativesmust be atleast as effective in meeting the requirementsofthe

regulations asthe methods described in this handbook. We must approve an alternateplan

before it can be used. For thisreason, plansshould be submitted well in advance of when

approval is needed to allow time forAPHIS review and to avoid unnecessary or wasteful

expenditures. For additional information and to discuss how muchtime may be needed for

APHIS reviewof a plan, contactAPHISVS,National Import Export Services,(301) 851-3300.

The regulations also contain reporting requirementsfor ocean vessels. Thishandbook contains

contact numbers and addressesforsubmitting reports, as well as an optional template that

may be usedforthe operator’sreportrequired by § 91.12(f).

The most recent edition of this handbook is available for viewing and downloading atthe

following address: http://www.aphis.usda.gov/import_export/index.shtml
July 2017

APHIS will notify the public of changesto the handbook via announcementson its Web site.

Any substantive changesto guidance will also be made availablefor public commentthrough a

notice in theFederal Register.

Table of Contents

Introduction

1. Approved Disinfectants

1.1 For use on conveyances, containers, and facilitiesunder § 91.6,

“Cleaning and disinfection of means of conveyance, containers, and facilitiesused

duringmovement;approveddisinfectants.”

1.2 For use on fittings, utensils, containers, and equipment on ocean vessels under

§ 91.12, “Ocean vessels.”

1.3 For use on aircraft and associated loading ramps,fittings, and equipment

under § 91.13, “Aircraft.”

1.4 Disinfectantspermitted under 9 CFR 71.10, “Permitted disinfectants.”

2. ApprovalofExportInspection Facilities

2.1 Isolation of animals.

2.2 Space to accommodateanimals.

2.3 Protectionfrominclementweather.

2.4 Floors.

2.5 Fences, gates, and other parts of the facility used for animals.

2.6 Cleaning and disinfection.

2.7 Drainage system.

2.8 Inspectionspace.

2.9 Animals of questionable health status.

2.10 Personneltendingtheanimals.

2.11 Waterforthe animals.

2.12 Lighting.

2.13 Officeand restrooms.

3. ApprovalforPre-exportInspectionofLivestockatExportIsolationFacilities

3.1 Space.

3.2 Lighting.

3.3 Handling.
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4. ApprovalforPre-exportInspectionofLivestockatExportInspectionFacilities

OtherThantheExportInspectionFacilitiesAssociatedwiththePortof

Embarkation

5. OceanVessels:Cleaning andDisinfection

6. OceanVessels:DeterminingSufficientAmountsofFeedandWater

7. OceanVessels:AccommodationsfortheHumaneTransportofLivestock

7.1 Pens.

7.2 Ramps, doors, and alleyways used forlivestock.

7.3 Feed,water,and bedding.

7.4 Ventilation.

7.5 Waste management.

7.6 Lighting.

8. OceanVesselsUsingShippingContainers

8.1 Size.

8.2 Construction materials.

8.3 Water.

8.4 Waste management.

8.5 Ventilation.

9. ContactInformationandanOptionalFormforOceanVesselReportsRequired

under§91.12(f)

10. LaboratoriesApprovedtoConductTestsforProgramDiseases

11. DesignatedPortsofEmbarkation

Appendix I –Ocean Vessels: UseofWood for Pen Construction

AppendixII – CargoContainersforLivestockShipped by Air

AppendixIII—RecommendationsforExportIsolationFacilities

Appendix IV—Recommendations for Livestock Inspection 

Appendix V — Export Facility Inspection Checklists
July 2017

1. ApprovedDisinfectants

Regulatoryauthority: 9CFR91.6,91.12(b),and91.13(a).

Background:

The regulationsrequireuse of disinfectants approved by the Administratorfor:

• Conveyancesor containersin which livestock are moved fromthe premisesof export

and any facilitiesinto which such livestock are unloaded;

• All fittings,utensils, containers, and equipment, includinghalters,ropes, and similar

equipment(unless new) to be used in the loading,stowing, or other handling of

livestock aboard ocean vessels; and

• The stowage area of any aircraftto be used forthe export of livestock and any loading

ramps, fittings, and equipmentto be used in loading the livestock.

The disinfectantslisted below have been approved by theAdministratorforthe purposeslisted.

The Administratormay approve otherdisinfectantsfor use asrequired by the regulationsupon

determining thatthedisinfectantis effective against the pathogensthat maybe spread by the

animals and, ifthe disinfectant is a chemical disinfectant,that it isregistered or exemptedfor

the specified use by EPA. Disinfectantsmust be approved by the Administratorbefore they may

be usedto meetthe requirementsofthe regulations.

Approved disinfectants:

1.1 For useon conveyances, containers, and facilitiesunder § 91.6, “Cleaningand

disinfectionof meansof conveyance,containers,and facilitiesusedduringmovement;

approved disinfectants.”

Chemicaldisinfectantsregistered with or exempted by EPA forthisspecified use. A list

of general antimicrobial disinfectantsis available at

http://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2016-12/documents/list_a_sterilizer.pdf

Pathogen-specificdisinfectantsarefoundhere: https://www.epa.gov/pesticideregistration/selected-epa-registered-disinfectants

1.2 For use on fittings,utensils, and equipmenton ocean vesselsunder § 91.12, “Ocean

vessels.”
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1.2.1 On ocean vesselslast used to carrylivestock to orfrom a region affectedwith footand-mouth disease:

• Sodium carbonate (4 percent) in the proportion of 1 pound to 3 gallons of water.

• 4 percentsodiumcarbonateplus 0.1 percentsodiumsilicate.

• Sodium hydroxide (Lye) prepared in a fresh solution in the proportion of not less

than 1 pound avoirdupois of sodiumhydroxide of not lessthan 95 percent purity

to 6 gallonsof water, or one 131⁄2 –ounce can to 5 gallonsof water. (Due to the

extremely causticnatureofsodiumhydroxide solution,precautionarymeasures

such asthe wearingof rubber gloves,boots,raincoat, and gogglesshould be

observed. An acid solution such as vinegarshould be kept readily available in case

any of the sodiumhydroxide solution should come in contact with the body.)

1.2.2 On ocean vesselsreturning fromotherforeigncountries:

• Disinfectantslisted in 9 CFR 71.10 (see section 1.4 of this Handbook).

1.3 For useon aircraftand associatedloadingramps,fittings,and equipment under

§ 91.13, “Aircraft.”

1.3.1 For use in stowage areas:

• A freshly prepared solution of 4 percentsodium carbonateplus 0.1 percentsodium

silicate.

1.3.2 For useon loadingramps,fittings, and equipment:

• Chemicaldisinfectantsregistered with or exempted by EPAforthisspecified

use. A list of general antimicrobialdisinfectantsis available at:

http://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2015-

09/documents/list_a_sterilizer.pdf. Pathogen-specificdisinfectantsare

found here:http://www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/selected-eparegistered-disinfectants

1.4 Disinfectantspermittedunder 9 CFR71.10,“Permitteddisinfectants.”

These disinfectants are set out here for the convenience of Handbookusers.
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• “Cresylic disinfectant”* in the proportion of at least 4 fluid ouncesto 1 gallon of

water.

• Liquefied phenol (U.S.P.strength 87 percent phenol)in the proportion of atleast 6

fluid ouncesto 1 gallon of water.

• Chlorinated lime (U.S.P.strength, 30 percent available chlorine)in theproportion of

1 pound to 3 gallons of water.

• Sodium hydroxide (Lye) prepared in a fresh solution in the proportion of not less

than 1 pound avoirdupois ofsodium hydroxide of not lessthan 95 percent purity to

6 gallons of water, or one 13-1⁄2 ounce can to 5 gallons of water. Due to the

extremely causticnatureofsodiumhydroxide solution,precautionarymeasures

such asthe wearingof rubber gloves, boots,raincoat, and gogglesshould be

observed. An acid solution such as vinegarshallbe kept readily available in case any

of the sodiumhydroxide solution should come in contact with the body.

• Disinfectantswhich are registered with EPAunderthe Federal Insecticide, Fungicide,

and RodenticideAct (7 U.S.C.135 etseq.), with tuberculocidal claims, as

disinfectantsfor general use,may be used in accordance with directionson the

labels accepted in connection with theirregistration.However,disinfectantswhich

fall in this category are not permitted for use in outbreaks of foreign animaldiseases

unlessin specific casessuch use is approved in advance by the Administrator.

*As provided in 9 CFR 71.10, the use of “cresylic disinfectant” is permitted

subjectto the following conditions:

• The manufacturerhas obtained specificpermission fromAPHIS fortheuse ofthe

productsin officialdisinfection. To obtain such permission,manufacturersmustfirst

submit a sample of at least 8 ouncesfor examination,together with a statement of

the formula employed and a guarantee thatthe product will bemaintainedof a

qualityuniformwith the sample submitted.

• To prevent confusion,the product of each manufacturer and distributormust bear a

distinctive tradename orbrand,togetherwith the name of themanufactureror

distributor.
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• The product must at alltimes conformto specificationsfor composition and

performance issued by theAdministrator.

2. Approval of ExportInspection Facilities

Regulatoryauthority: 9CFR91.7(a) and(b), 91.10.

Background:

All livestock intended for export by sea or air mustreceive a visual health inspection from an

APHIS veterinarian within 48 hours priorto embarkation. Unless otherwise authorized by the

Administrator,the inspection mustbe done atthe exportinspectionfacility affiliated with the

port of embarkation. Such facilitiesmust be approved in advance by the Administrator as a

location whereAPHIS will conduct pre-exportinspectionsof livestock.

In orderto be approved,facilitiesmust be constructed,equipped, and managed in a manner

that preventstransmission of disease to and from livestock in the facility, providesforthe safe

and humane handling and restraint of livestock, and providessufficient offices,space, and

lighting,for APHIS veterinariansto safely conduct required inspectionsof livestockand related

business.

Following approval, if theowner ofthe facility changes orsignificantstructural changes are

made to the facility,the facility willneed to be reapproved.

Guidance:

Thissection ofthe Handbookdescribeshow facilities can meetthe requirementsfor approval.

Owners and operatorsmay submit alternativeplansformeeting the requirementsto APHIS for

evaluation and approval. Alternativesmust be atleast as effective in meeting therequirements

asthose describedbelow in orderto be approved, and must be approved by APHIS before

beingused. Facilitiesmust be approved priorto receiving any livestock for exportation from

the United States. Approval may be sought by contacting the APHIS-VSAir and Sea Port

Director.

2.1 Isolationof animals.

The facility is arranged and located to isolate all animalsin the facility from all other animals.
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2.2 Space to accommodateanimals.

The facility has adequatespace and/orscheduling to accommodate the animalsin a single

exportshipment. A minimum spacetwice the size contained in the guidelinesforspace per

animal on ocean vesselsis acceptable. (See section 8 ofthis Handbook.)

2.3 Protectionfrominclementweather.

The facilityhas a roof adequateto protectthe animalsfrominclement weather over at least

three-fourthsof the pens and alleys and over all of the inspection area.

2.4 Floors.

The floors of pens, alleys, and chutes are disinfectable and skid resistant, or are cleaned on a

regular basis to remove effluent and feces. Disinfectable materials are those which resist the

absorption of fluids,such as concrete, asphalt,brick, and metal.

2.5 Fences, gates, and other parts ofthe facilityusedfor animals.

Fences, gates, and otherparts ofthe facility used for animalsare constructed of material,such

as wood or metal, whichcan securely restrain the animalsin a safe and humane manner.

2.6 Cleaning anddisinfection.

The facilityhasrunning water available to wash the facility. The facility and all equipment used

with animals are cleanedand disinfected with a chemicaldisinfectantregistered with or

exempted by EPAforthisspecified use. A list of these is available at:

http://www.aphis.usda.gov/import_export/index.shtml

2.7 Drainage system.

The facilityhas a drainage system that controlssurface drainage into and fromthe facility in a

mannerthat prevents any significant riskof livestock diseasesbeing spread into orfrom the

facility.

2.8 Inspection space.

The facilityhas a separate area forinspection of animalsthatis equipped with animal

restraining devicesthat allowforthe safe and humane handling of animals during inspection.

If horses will be inspected atthe facility, areas where horses are inspectedhave ceilings atleast

12-feet high and there are walkwaysin front of horse stalls wide enough to allow APHIS

personnelto safely remove horsesfromthe stallsfor inspection if necessary.
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2.9 Animalsofquestionablehealthstatus.

Separate pens or yards are provided forsegregation and/ortreatment of animals of

questionablehealth status apartfrom animals qualified for export.

2.10 Personneltendingtheanimals.

Personneltending the animals who have had contact with animalsoutside the facility are

required to change orsanitizetheir outer clothing and footwearbefore enteringareasused for

animals.

2.11 Waterforthe animals.

The facility has an ample supply of potable runningwater that is made available to the

livestock. In cold weather,the wateris keptfree fromice.

2.12 Lighting.

The facility is equipped with artificial lighting that provides sufficientlighting in the inspection

area for inspectorsto conductinspections.

2.13 Office and restrooms.

A suitableoffice and restroomfacilities are provided for use of APHIS representatives.

See Appendix V — Export Facility Inspection Checklists for both Permanent and Temporary 

Export Inspection Facility Inspection Checklists
July 2017

Approval for Pre-export Inspection of Livestock at Export Isolation Facilities

Regulatoryauthority: 9CFR91.7(b) and(c).

Background:

Livestockmay be isolatedfor a period of time priorto exportin orderto meetthe health

requirementsof the country to which they will be shipped. TheAdministrator may allow preexport health inspection of livestock to be conducted at an exportisolation facility,ratherthan

at the exportinspectionfacility associated with the port of embarkation, when the exporter can

show to the satisfaction of the Administratorthat the livestock would suffer undue hardship if

they had to be inspected at theexportinspection facility, when the distance fromthe export

isolation facility to the port of embarkation issignificantly lessthan the distance fromthe export

isolation facility to the exportinspection facility associated with the port of embarkation,when

inspection atthe exportisolation facility would be a more efficientuse of APHIS resources, or

for otherreasons acceptable to the Administrator. Approval is contingent upon APHIS having

personnel available to provide services atthat location. The exportisolation facilitymust also

have space, and lighting, and humane means of handling livestock sufficient for APHIS

veterinariansto safely conductrequired inspections. Requeststo use an export isolation facility

in orderto conduct pre-exportinspection should be submitted to the Service CenterDirector

forthe State in which the inspection would occur(see

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/animal_health/downloads/nies_contacts/sc.pdf for State-byState contactinformation.)

Guidance:

Thissection of the Handbookdescribeshow exportisolation facilities can meet the

requirementsfor approval aslocationsfor pre-exportinspection of livestock. Owners and

operatorsmay submit alternativeplansformeeting the requirementstoAPHIS for evaluation

and approval. Alternativesmust be atleast as effective in meeting the requirements asthose

described below in order forthe facility to be approved as a location for pre-export inspections.

Alternate plansmust be approved by APHISbefore the facilitymay be used for purposes of the

regulations.
July 2017

3.1 Space

• The export isolation facility has a designated area for inspection of livestock.

• The designated inspection area is wide enough to alloweasymovementof livestock

through the area during inspections.

• The designated inspection area is ofsound construction and sturdy enough to

accommodatelargenumbersof large/heavylivestock.

• The sidesof the designated inspection area are high enough to preclude livestock from

jumpingoverthemduring inspection.

• Any ceilingsof the designated inspection area are high enough to safely allow ingress

and egress of livestock. In any area wherehorses will be inspected,the ceilings are at

least 12-feet high, and walkwaysin front of horse stalls are wide enough to allowAPHIS

personnelto safely remove horsesfromthe stallforinspection, if necessary.

• The designated inspection area issheltered frominclement weather.

• The facilityhasthe abilityto restrict accessto the inspection area during inspectionsto

authorizedpersonnel involved in the inspection itself.

3.2 Lighting

• Lighting in the inspection area providessufficientlighting forinspectorsto conduct

inspections.

• The facilitymaintains at leasttemporaryartificial lighting in orderto inspect animals

during periods of low light or night operations.

3.3 Handling

• All animalsthat will be inspected at the facility will be identified priorto inspection.

• The facility hassufficient personnelto ensure that animals can be unloadedand moved

into the inspection area in a safe and humane manner.

• The fences, gates, and other partsof thedesignated inspection area are constructed of

materialthat can securely restrain animalsin a safe and humanemanner during

inspection.

• The inspection area is equipped with animalrestrainingdevicesthat allowfor the safe

and humane handling of animals during inspection.

See Appendix V — Export Facility Inspection Checklists for Export Isolation Facility 

Inspection Checklist
July 2017

4. Approval for Pre-export Inspection of Livestock at ExportInspection Facilities

Other Than the Export Inspection Facilities Associated with the Port of

Embarkation

Regulatoryauthority: 9CFR91.7(b) and(d)

Background:

The Administratormay allowpre-export inspection of livestock to be conducted at an export

inspection facility otherthan the exportinspection facilities associated with the port of

embarkation,when the exporter can showto the satisfaction of theAdministratorthatthe

livestock would suffer undue hardship ifthey had to be inspected at the exportinspection

facility associated with the port of embarkation,when inspection atthis different export

inspection facility wouldbe a more efficient use of APHIS resources, orforotherreasons

acceptable to theAdministrator. Requeststo use an exportinspection facilityotherthan the

facilities associated with the port of embarkation in orderto conduct pre-export inspection

should be submitted to the APHIS-VS Air and Sea Port Director.
July 2017

5. Ocean Vessels: Cleaning and Disinfection

Regulatoryauthority: 9CFR91.12(b).

Background:

Any vessel intended for use in exporting livestock, and allfittings, utensils, containers, and

equipment(unlessnew) used forloading,stowing, or other handlingof livestock aboard the

vessel, must be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected to the satisfaction of an APHIS

representativepriorto any livestockbeing loaded.

Guidance:

After alltraces of manurehave been removed,disinfectant (see 1.2.1 and 1.2.2 ofthis

Handbook)should be applied to allsurfacesof the livestock cargo areas, including floors,

ceilings, walls,rails, and gates, and to all equipment and utensilsthat have been used in the

livestock cargo areas, including automaticwater cups,feed and watertroughs,wheelbarrows,

shovels,rakes, pitchforks,ropes, and boots. Any surface of the ocean vessel on which the crew

walks with the same footwear worn in the livestock cargo areasshould also be cleaned and

disinfected.
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6. Ocean Vessels: Determining Sufficient Amounts of Feed and Water

Regulatoryauthority: 9CFR91.12(c).

Background:

The owner or operatorof an ocean vessel carrying livestock fromthe United Statesto a foreign

countrymustprovide the livestock with sufficientfeed and water afterthe animalsare loaded

onto the vessel,taking into considerationthe livestock’sspecies, body weight,the expected

durationof the voyage, and the likelihood of adverse climatic conditions during transport.

Guidance:

Thissection ofthe Handbook describeshow ocean vessels canmeetthe requirementfor having

sufficient amounts of water and feed. Owners and operatorsmay submit alternative plansfor

meeting the requirementto APHIS for evaluation and approval. Alternativeplans mustshow

that the livestock willreceive at least an equivalentlevel of hydration and nutrition in orderto

be approved.

DeterminingSufficientWater

The vessel has an ample supplyof potable runningwaterthat is made available to the livestock.

Watering devices are in good working function and “deiced” in cold weather. If not

automatically refilled,drinkingwater devices ortroughs are filled ad libitumduring transport.

DeterminingSufficient Feed

The minimumamount of feed needed for a voyage is 2.25 percent ofthe body weight of all

livestock on board,multiplied by thenumber of days estimated forthe voyage, plus 15 percent

of that amountforunforeseen circumstances. The numberof days estimated forthe voyage

should include the time from completion of loading to the time of arrival atthe port of

discharge.
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7. Ocean Vessels: Accommodationsforthe Humane Transport of Livestock

Regulatoryauthority: 9CFR 91.12 (a) and (d).

Background:

Ocean vesselsusedto transportlivestockintendedfor exportmustbe designed, constructed,

and managed to reasonablyassure the livestock are protected frominjuryand remain healthy

during loading andtransportto the importing country. To meetthese expectations, ocean

vesselsmust comply with standardsin the regulationsforthe humane transport of livestock.

No livestockmay be loaded onto an ocean vesselunless an APHIS representative has

determinedthatthe vesselmeetsthose standards.

The vessel must be inspected for compliance with the standardspriorto initial use to transport

any livestock from the United States. APHIS will issue a certificate to vessels deemed to be

compliant. Subsequently, priorto each voyage, a certified vesselwill be evaluated for ongoing

compliance with the standards, as well asthe vessel’ssuitability to transportthat particular

shipmentof livestock.

To schedule an inspection for certification, contact APHIS-VS’ Air and Sea Port Director.

Guidance:

Thissection of the Handbook describes how ocean vessels can comply with the standardsin the

regulationsforthehumane transport of livestock. Owners and operatorsmay submit

alternative plansfor complying with the standardsto APHIS for evaluation and approval.

Alternativesmust be atleast as effective inmeetingthe requirementsasthose described below

in orderforthe ocean vessel to be approved by APHIS forthe transport of livestock.

Standardsbelow that pertain to the construction of the vessel and its overallsuitability to

transportlivestock (e.g., 7.1 and itssubsections, 7.5, 7.6) will be evaluated atthe initial

inspection for certification and will be reevaluated for ongoing suitabilitypriorto each voyage

to export livestock. Standards below that pertain to the vessel’ssuitability to transport a

particularshipment of livestock (e.g., 7.2, 7.4) will be evaluated priorto the voyage containing

thatshipment.
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7.1 Pens1.

7.1.1 Stanchions,rails,andgates; general construction:

All pens, including gates and portable railsused to close access ways, are designed and

constructed of materialofsufficientstrength to securely contain the livestock. They are

properly formed, closely fitted, and rigidly secured inplace. They have smooth finished

surfacesfree from sharp protrusions. They have no worn,decayed, unsound,or otherwise

defective parts.

7.1.2 Stanchions,railsandgates;materials:

A varietyof constructionmaterials,such as wood,metal plate, or pipe, including a

combination of materials, may be used forpens aboard ocean vessels. Pipe fittings

have the advantage ofsmooth surfaces, easymaintenance,long range economy and

spaces between pipe railsto allowforfeeding, watering, cleaningand better

ventilation. The nonporoussurfaces of pipe area also easy to disinfect. Special care

should be taken to design and finish all edges, welds, and hardware that are

accessible to animals.

Stanchions,rails, and gates made of pipe:

• Pipes are made of extra strong, mediumcarbon steel and are either galvanized (coated

with zinc) or painted.

• All parts are cutfromseamless pipewith no threaded pipe connections.

• Rails and gatesuse at least 4 pipes, with the top one having a diameter of atleast 3

inches(7.62 cm) and theothers a diameter of atleast 2-1⁄2 inches(6.35 cm).

• Stanchions are atleast 3-1⁄2 inches(8.89 cm) in diameter, atleast 5⁄16 inches(0.79 cm)

thick, and placed no more than 8 feet (2.438m) apart centerto center.

• Bolt and pin holes are properly located and centered on the pipe and are notmore than

1⁄32 inch (0.08 cm) oversize.

• Pipes are not deformed or weakened by weldingofsuch items asreinforcing rodsor

hinges ontothem. Welding is exposed inthe finished work. Pins,plates, and parts

otherthan pipe are made of galvanized steel.

• All areas where galvanizingof the steel has eroded or has been damaged have been

finished with a rust preventative.

• Pipe rails are aligned with the tops of all gates at the sameheight.

1As used in thisHandbook, penmay mean the space for one animal (often referred to as a stall) orthe space for

morethan oneanimal.
July 2017

• If feed or water dispensers are mounted externally, or if feed willbe placed on thefloor

outsidepens, pipe rails are arranged to allow livestock accessto the feed and water.

Stanchions,rails, and gates made of wood:

Although acceptable, lumberisrarelyused for pen construction on modern ocean vessels

used to transportlivestock. Forthisreason, and because descriptionsof acceptable

construction forwoodenpens are quite lengthy,they are located in Appendix I,ratherthan

in thissection of the Handbook.

7.1.3 Flooring.

Flooring must be strong enough to supportthe weight of the livestock to be transported and

must provide a non-slip foothold.

Acceptable surfacesincludeepoxy and concreteflooringwith roughened texture (taking care

to ensure the surface is notso sharp it will hurt the animals’ feet). Footlocksmay also be

used to preventthe animalsfrom slipping. Flooringmade of 3-inch (7.62-cm) concrete

pavement, proportionedand mixed to give 2000psi. compressive strength in 28 days, or

materialof equivalentstrength, is acceptable.

Although acceptable, lumberisrarely used for flooring on modern ocean vessels used to

transportlivestock. Forthisreason, and because descriptions of acceptable construction for

wooden flooring are quite lengthy,they are located in Appendix I,ratherthan inthissection

of the Handbook.

7.1.4 Pens adjacentto ship’ssides:

Any fittings or protrusionsfrom ships’sidesthat abut pens are covered to protect livestock

frominjury.

If the sides of pens are adjacent to ship’ssidesthat have steel casings,frames, stays,or

similarfittings,these profiles are covered orthe sides of pens are fitted with rump boardsto

protect the livestock frominjury. The coveringsorrump boards are ofsufficient dimensions

and strength to protect animalsfrom injury. Acceptable coveringsincludewooden battens

made of atleast 2-inch (5.08 cm)thick lumber or plywood ofsimilarstrength. Rump boards

may be made oftongue and groove lumber at least 1-1/2 inches(3.81 cm)thick orsquare
July 2017

edged lumber at least2 inches(5.08 cm)thick or plywood of similarstrength. Rump boards

should form a solid wall at least 4-1/2feet (1.372m) high forhorses, 4-feet(1.219 m) high for

cattle, and 2-1/2 feet (0.76 m) high forsheep, goats, and swine.

7.1.5 Pens adjacentto engineor boilerrooms or othersources of heat:

Boiler roomsorsimilarsources of heat arefitted to protect livestock in nearby pensfrom

injury due to transfer of heat.

The sidesof engine or boiler rooms or othersources of heats are covered with a tongue and

groove tightsheathingproducing a 3-inch wide airspace. On ships powered with internal

combustion engines,thissheathingmay not be required atthe discretion ofthe APHIS

representative.

7.1.6 Penson exposedupper decks:

Penson exposedupperdecksprotectlivestockfromthe weather.

If animals will be transported on exposed upper decksin space abutting the outside rails or

ship’ssides,the rails orsides are at least 4 feet (1.219 m) high fromthedeck, and barriers are

erected at all unprotected ends of pensto prevent animalsfrombeing lost overboard.

Additionally,the rails or sides are ofsufficientstrength to securelyhold any pen fittings

attachedtothem.

All pens on exposed upper decks are covered securelywith watertightroofing that extends at

least 2 feet (0.610m) beyond thepens.

All open spaceson the sides of exposed decks used to carry livestock are covered with planking,

except thatthe top course plankingmay be left off in warm weatherto allowa free circulation of

air.

7.1.7 Pensonhatches:

No pen is positioned where the pen or livestock in the pen can damage or obstruct hatches or

hatch covers,or where the hatches or hatch covers can result in injury to the livestock.

7.1.8 Sizeoftransportspaces.

Pens are of an appropriate sizeforthe species,size, weight, and condition ofthe livestock

being transported, as well asthe ship’sroute.
July 2017

7.1.8.1 General:

Generally, any individual animal should have pen space 6 inches(15.24 cm)more in

height, depth, and widththan themeasurementsof the animal concerned.

Space should be arranged so that an animal handler can observe each animalregularly

and clearly.

Guidelines on pen size are set out below.

• If the vessel will be moving into or through a tropical area (the area of the world

situated between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn), increase the

space for each animal by 10 percent or more (e.g.,more for unshorn sheep).

• If any animalto be loaded isin the third trimesterof pregnancy, increase the space

by at least 10 percentfor cattle and horses and at least 50 percentforsheep, goats,

and swine. Thisincrease isin addition to any increase due to movementinto or

through a tropical area (e.g., increase size by 20 percentfor cattle that are in the

third trimester of pregnancy and will be moving into orthrough a tropical area).

An APHIS representativewill make the final determination ofspaceneeded for each

animal atthe port of embarkation based upon the size and type of livestock presented,

weather, destination,route, cubic inchesof air available to each animal, and the

ventilation capabilityofthe vessel. Irregularly shaped pens may be usedonly if theAPHIS

representativedeterminesthey willbe safe forthe livestock and allowall livestock in the

pen adequate accessto feed and water.

7.1.8.2 Horses2:

Horses have at least 6 feet 6 inches(1.981m) ofspace fromroof or beams overhead to floor

underfoot.

Pensfor horses are no largerthan 120 square feet(11.155square meters) and are between

8 feet (2.438 m) and 9 feet (2.743m) wide measured acrossthe ship from side to side,

exceptthat an APHIS representativemayallow pens 7 feet (2.134m) wide formedium-sized

horses.

2Pleasenote: 15U.S.C.1824(a)prohibitsthe exportofhorsesdestined forslaughterby means ofocean vessels.
July 2017

Single stallsfor horses are at least 8 feet (2.438m) long by 2-1/2feet (0.762m) wide. Mares

in foal are shipped in single stallsthat are at least 8 feet (2.438m) long by 3 feet (0.914m)

wide. Stallsforstallions are at least 8 feet (2.438 m) long by 5 feet (1.524m) wide. Stallsfor

maresin foal and stallions are readily accessible to ship personnel.

7.1.8.3 Cattle:

Exceptin containers,space for cattle weighing 1,000 pounds or more is at least 8 feet(2.438

m) wide and 6 feet 3 inches(1.911m) from roof or beams overhead to flooring underfoot,

exceptthatthe height may be 6 feet (1.829m) or more, atthe discretion of theAPHIS

representative, whenfloors are raisedover pipes and similarobstructions. Pensfor cattle

weighing lessthan 1,100 pounds areno more than 226 square feet(20.996square meters).

When pensinclude stanchions,soundingtubes, ventilators,or other obstructions, 20

percent more space for each animal is provided. Single stallsfor cattle weighing 1,000

poundsor more are at least 8 feet (2.438m) longby 3 feet (0.914m) wide.

7.1.8.4 Calvesand yearlings:

Calves and yearlingsmay be stowed in pens or stalls at the discretion of the APHIS

representativeattheportof embarkation.

7.1.8.5 Sheep,goats, andswine:

Space forsheep, goats, and swine is at least 3 feet(0.914 m) in height. The length and width

of pens do not exceed 15 feet (4.572m) × 8 feet (2.438m).

7.1.8.6 Space guidelines:

The following space guidelines apply to livestock other than as described in section 8.1.8.5 of

this Handbook.
July 2017

Spaceperhead:

Liveweight

(lb./kg)

Minimumpen

area

(ft

2

/m2/head)

Live

weight

(lb/kg)

Minimumpen

area

(ft2/m2/head)

Live

weight

(lb/kg)

Minimum

pen area

(ft2/m2/head)

88/40 2.36/0.226 9.39/0.872 924/420 16.34/1.518

110/50 2.73/0.260 9.76/0.906 946/430 16.70/1.552

132/60 3.10/0.294 10.13/0.940 968/440 17.07/1.586

154/70 3.47/0.328 10.50/0.974 990/450 17.44/1.620

176/80 3.84/0.362 10.85/1.008 1012/460 17.80/1.654

198/90 4.21/0.396 11.22/1.042 1034/470 17.80/1.688

220/100 4.58/0.430 11.58/1.076 1056/480 18.53/1.722

242/110 4.95/0.464 12.95/1.110 1078/490 18.90/1.756

264120 5.32/0.498 12.31/1.144 1100/500 19.27/1.790

286/130 5.69/0.532 12.68/1.178 1122/510 19.63/1.824

308/140 6.06/0.566 13.05/1.212 1144/520 20.00/1.858

330/150 6.43/0.600 13.41/1.246 1166/530 20.37/1.892

352/160 6.80/0.634 13.78/1.280 1188/540 20.73/1.926

374/170 7.17/0.668 14.147/1.314 1210/550 21.10/1.960

396/180 7.54/0.702 14.51/1.348 1232/560 21.46/1.994

418/190 7.91/0.736 15.88/1.382 1254/570 21.83/2.028

440/200 8.28/0.770 15.24/1.416 1276/580 22.20/2.062

462/210 8.65/0.804 15.60/1.450 1298/590 22.56/2.096

9.02/0.838 15.97/1.484 1320/600 22.92/2.130
July 2017

(1)Pen-group live weightrange:the live weight range in each pen of cattle should not

exceed the pen average plus or minus 110/50lb./kg.

(2)For animals weighing between 88/40 lb./kg and 1320/600 lb./kg, for weights

between those shown in the table, the minimum pen area per head should be

calculated by linearinterpolation.

(3)The time for a voyage is calculated fromcompletion of loading in United States until

anticipatedarrival attheport of discharge overseas.

(4)For animals weighingmore than 1320/600 lb./kg,the minimumpen area per head

is 22.92/2.13ft

2

/m2plus 0.37/0.034 ft2/m2 for each 22/10 lb./kg above 600 kg.

7.1.8.7 Space guidelinesforlargeanimalstransportedin containers:

The following space guidelines apply to livestock that are transported in containersand

whose length exceedsthe width of the container.

Containersused aboard containerized ocean vesselsmeasure 8 feet (2.438m) in width

outside but vary from 7 feet 3 inches(2.210m) to 7 feet 9 inches(2.362m) in width inside

and from 17 feet (5.182m) to 40 feet (12.192 m) in length. The following chart provides

space guidelinesfor livestock whose length exceedsthe inside width ofthe container. For

ready measurement of dairy cattleonly,thedistance fromthe withersto thepin bone

multiplied by 1.65 givesthe approximate total length. Other cattle and large animalsmust

be measured to determine theirtotal length. Animals weighingmore than shown in the

following chartsshallbe stowed subjectto the approvalof the APHIS representative atthe

portof embarkation.

The maximuminside length of containerpensis 12 feet 9 inches(3.886m).
July 2017

Animal

weight,

pounds

3 head 4 head

Minimum space per

head Minimum pensize Minimum penwidth Minimum pen size Minimum penwidth

Square feet Square

meters Square feet Squaremeters

Feet Meters Square feet Square

meters

Feet Meters

Containers 7 feet 9′′wide

800 18.5 1.719 ----- ----- ----- ----- 74.0 6.875 9′7′′ 2.921

850 19.5 1.812 ----- ----- ----- ----- 78.0 7.246 10′1′′ 3.073

900 20.4 1.895 61.2 5.686 7′11′′ 2.413 81.6 7.581 10′6′′ 3.200

950 21.4 1.988 64.2 5.964 8′4′′ 2.540 85.6 7.953 11′1′′ 3.378

1,000 22.4 2.081 67.5 6.271 8′9′′ 2.667 90.6 8.417 11′7′′ 3.531

1,050 23.4 2.174 70.2 6.522 9′1′′ 2.769 93.6 8.696 12′1′′ 3.683

1,100 24.5 2.276 73.5 6.828 9′6′′ 2.896 98.0 9.105 12′8′′ 3.861

1,150 25.5 2.369 76.2 7.079 9′10′′ 2.997 ----- ----- ----- -----
July 2017

1,200 26.5 2.462 79.5 7.386 10′3′′ 3.124 ----- ----- ----- -----

1,250 27.4 2.546 82.2 7.637 10′6′′ 3.200 ----- ----- ----- -----

1,300 28.4 2.638 85.2 7.915 11′0′′ 3.353 ----- ----- ----- -----

1,350 29.6 2.750 88.8 8.250 11′6′′ 3.505 ----- ----- ----- -----

1,400 30.8 2.861 92.4 8.584 12′0′′ 3.658 ----- ----- ----- -----

1,450 31.9 2.964 95.7 8.891 12′4′′ 3.759 ----- ----- ----- -----

1,500 32.9 3.057 98.7 9.170 12′9′′ 3.886 ----- ----- ----- -----

Containers 7 feet 3 incheswide

700 16.3 1.514 65.2 6.057 9′9′′ 2.972

750 17.5 1.626 52.2 4.850 7′3′′ 2.210 70.0 6.503 9′8′′ 2.946

800 18.9 1.756 56.7 5.268 7′9′′ 2.362 75.6 7.024 10′5′′ 3.175

850 20.1 1.867 60.3 5.602 8′3′′ 2.515 80.4 7.469 11′1′′ 3.378

900 21.3 1.979 63.9 5.937 8′9′′ 2.667 85.2 7.915 11′9′′ 3.581
July 2017

950 22.3 2.072 66.9 6.215 9′2′′ 2.794 89.2 8.287 12′4′′ 3.759

1,000 23.7 2.202 71.1 6.605 9′8′′ 2.946 ----- ----- ----- -----

1,050 24.8 2.304 74.1 6.884 10′1′′ 3.073 ----- ----- ----- -----

1,100 26.0 2.416 78.6 7.302 10′9′′ 3.277 ----- ----- ----- -----

1,150 27.1 2.518 81.3 7.553 11′3′′ 3.429 ----- ----- ----- -----

1,200 28.4 2.638 85.5 7.943 11′10′′ 3.607 ----- ----- ----- -----

1,250 29.6 2.750 88.8 8.250 12′3′′ 3.734 ----- ----- ----- -----

1,300 30.9 2.871 92.7 8.612 12′9′′ 3.886 ----- ----- ----- -----
July 2017

7.1.9 Hospital pens:

The ocean vessel has an appropriatenumber of appropriately sized and located pensset

aside to segregate livestock that become sick orinjured fromother animals.

At least 1 percent of thepen space in each compartmentor deck where livestock area

loaded isset aside to be used as hospitalpens for any animalsthat become sick or disabled

aboard ship.

Hospitalpens provide at least 3 feet x 8 feet (0.914m x 2.438m) for each animal.

7.2 Ramps,doors,andalleywaysused forlivestock.

Ramps, doors, and passagewaysused forlivestock are of sufficient width and heightfortheir

use and allowthe safe passage of the speciestransported. Rampsmay not have an incline that

is excessive for the species of livestock transported and have to be fitted with footbattens at

intervalssuitablefor the species. They also must have a non-slip surface. Acceptable surfaces

include epoxy and concrete flooringwith roughened texture (taking care to ensurethe surface

is not so sharp it will hurtthe animals’ feet). The sides of ramps have to be of sufficient height

and strength to prevent escape of the speciesof livestock thatistransported.

Ramps connecting one deck of a ship to another have a clear width of 2-1/2 to 3 feet (0.762 x

0.914 m) and a clearheight of not lessthan 6 feet 6 inches (1.981m). The incline ofthe ramps

does not exceed 1:2 (261⁄2degrees) between the ramps and the horizontalplane. The ramps

are fitted with foot battens of approximately 2 × 2 inches(5.08 x 5.08 cm)spaced no more than

1 foot (0.305m) apart. The ramps have side fencing notlessthan 5 feet (1.524m) high. Side

doorsin ship'sshell plating through which livestock are to be loaded are not lessthan 6 feet

(1.829 m) high for cattle and 6 feet 6 inches(1.981m) high for horses.

Alleywaysrunning fore and aft on the ocean vesselthat are used forfeeding, watering, and

loading animals, including horsesin box stalls, are at least 3 feet wide and have non-slip

flooring. Acceptable surfacesinclude epoxy and concreteflooringwith roughenedtexture

(taking care to ensure the surface is notso sharp it will hurt the animals’ feet). If the alleyways

are used forfeeding or watering livestock, but notforloading or unloadingof livestock,they

may be atleast 28 inches(0.711m) wide. However, for a distance notto exceed 8 feet (2.438

m) at the end of alleywaysin the bow and the stern of ship, and where obstructionsof lessthan

3 feet (0.914 m) in length occur,the width may be reduced to a minimumof 24 inches(0.610

m). A sufficient number of alleyways at least 24 inches (0.610m) wide running acrossthe ship

afford ready accessto deck drains and to ends of alleywaysrunning fore and aft. However, on
July 2017

exposed decks where deck drains and theends of fore and aft alleywaysare readily accessible

acrossthe ship, alleyways acrossthe ship are notrequired.

7.3 Feed,water, andbedding.

The feeding and watering system is designed to permit all livestock in each pen adequate

accessto feed and water. The system is designed to minimize soiling of pens and to prevent

animal waste fromcontaminating feed and water.

7.3.1 Dispensers:

All stalls and pens are equipped with propertroughsforfeeding the livestock and with

propertroughs, containers, or otherdispensersfor wateringanimals.

The troughs/dispensers are made ofsturdymaterialthat is easy to disinfect,such asmetal

or plastic, and may be either removableorfixed.

The troughs/dispensers are arranged to ensure that all livestock in each pen have adequate

accessto the feed and water.

The troughs/dispensers are arranged tominimize soiling of pens and prevent animal waste

fromcontaminatingfeedand water.

Hay is dispensed from racks or nets of a type acceptable to theAPHIS representative or by

placing the hay on the floor of thepensin which the animals are confined.

7.3.2 Storage:

Hay,feed, and bedding are storedbelowdeck or otherwise covered to protectthem from

weather atsea.

If kept underlivestock transportspaces,hay,feed, and bedding are protected fromspillage

fromanimalwatering and feeding and animal waste.

7.4 Ventilation.

Ventilation is adequate for variationsin climate and weather and meetsthe needs of the

livestockbeingtransported.

Under-deck compartments are equipped with a systemof mechanical ventilation, includinga

backup systemor equipment in working order,thatfurnishes a complete change of air in each

compartment every 2 minutes when thedeck height (heightfromfloorto ceiling)islessthan 8

feet (2.438m), and every 2-1/2minutes when the deck heightis 8 feet (2.438m) or more.
July 2017

A sparemotor and fan of an approved type in working order is aboard the vessel for each type

of motor orfan used.

Net pen space in any compartmentdoesnot exceed 80 percent ofthe deck area.

The adequacyof any mechanical ventilation willbe evaluated using the engineering report.

7.5 Wastemanagement.

The vessel has a systemor arrangementsformanaging wasteto prevent excessive buildup in

livestock transportspaces during the voyage. Thisincludes a backup systemor alternate

arrangements.

There is adequatedrainage away from all areas used forlivestock, including sufficient deck

drains. A walkwayprovides easy accessto the deck drains. The vessel has adequate

arrangementsforthe removalof feces and otherwaste fromanimaltransportspaces. APHIS

recognizesthatlaws existthat preventthe discharge of waste fromshipsin certain locations.

However,to the extent possible,the route shouldbe managed to avoid excessive buildup of

waste in animaltransportspaces.

Livestockon lowerdecks and theirfeed and waterare protected frombeing soiledby feces and

urinefrom livestock on upper decks.

7.6 Lighting.

The vessel has adequate illumination to allow clear observation of livestock during loading,

transport, andunloading.
July 2017

8. Ocean Vessels Using Shipping Containers

Regulatoryauthority: 9CFR91.12(e)

Background:

An inspectormay exempt an ocean vesselthat usesshipping containersto transportlivestock

to an importing country from any of the accommodation standardsfor ocean vesselsthat he or

she specifies, ifthe inspectordeterminesthatthe containersthemselves are designed,

constructed, and managed in a mannerto reasonablyassure the livestock are protected from

injury and remain healthyduring loading,unloading, and transportto the importing country.

Guidance:

Thissection ofthe handbook provides guidance regardinghow inspectorswill evaluate

containerson container vessels. While APHIS willmake determinationsregardingthe suitability

of container vesselson a case-by-case basis, vesselsthat use containersthatfollowthe

guidance in thissection are more likely to be exempted fromthe standardsfor ocean vessels.

8.1. Size.

Shipping containersshould meet the size standardsspecified in 7.1.8.7 of the Handbook.

8.2 Construction materials.

Shipping containersmustbe constructed of materials able to supportlivestock weight, and

durable enough to withstand normalshocks and climatic conditionsincidentalto transit.

Flooring must provide a non-slip foothold and supportthe weight of the livestock to be

transported. Acceptable surfacesincludewood, epoxy, and concreteflooringwith roughened

texture (taking care to ensure the surface is notso sharp it will hurtthe animals’feet).

Footlocksmay also be used to preventthe animalsfromslipping.

8.3 Water.

The containerhas accessto a supplyof fresh potable waterthat willbe made available to the

livestock. It is preferred,although notrequired,thatshipping containersbe able to connectto

the ocean vessel’s watersupply system. All wateringdevices are in good working function and

“deiced” in cold weather.

8.4 Wastemanagement.

Shipping containersmust ensure thatthere is notsignificant, prolonged contact between

livestock and their effluent,or must otherwise ensure that all effluentisremoved or absorbed

so that it does not become an irritantforthe animal.
July 2017

8.5 Ventilation.

Ventilation is adequate for variationsin climate and weather and meetsthe needs of the

livestock being transported. A sparemotor and fan of an approved type in working orderis

aboard the vesselfor each type of motor or fan used.
July 2017

9. ContactInformation and an Optional Form for Ocean Vessel Reports

Required under § 91.12(f).

Regulatoryauthority: 9CFR91.12(f).

Background:

The owner or operatorof any ocean vessel used to transportlivestock fromthe United States

mustsubmit a written reportto APHIS within 5 business days after completing a voyage. The

report mustinclude information requiredby 9 CFR91.12(f). Additionally, if an ocean vessel

used to exportlivestock experiences any failureof a majorlife supportsystemforlivestock

during the voyage,the owneror operatormustnotifyAPHIS immediatelyby telephone,

facsimile,or otherelectronicmeans.

Owners and operatorsshould contacttheir port VMO forthe contactinformation ofthe person

to whomto send the report; in general,this will be the APHIS-VS Sea Port Director, although

otherAPHIS-VSpersonnelmay also be specified. The reportmay be sent by email orfax.

Thissection ofthe Handbook contains a form that may be used for the required reports.
July 2017

OPERATOR’S REPORT

Required by 9 CFR 91.12(f).

Operator’s name: Date:

Telephone number:

E-mail address:

SHIPDETAILS

Name ofship: Names and addresses of all livestock exporters:

Durationof voyage:

LOADINGDETAILS

Port Type of livestock Numberloaded Date loading completed

DISCHARGEDETAILS

Port Type of

livestock

Number

discharged

Date

discharge

completed

Numberof

deaths

Explanation of deaths
July 2017

FAILUREOF ANY LIFE SUPPORT SYSTEMS* FOR LIVESTOCK (if applicable)

(including, but notlimited to,systemsfor providing feed and water, ventilation systems, and systems

for removing livestockwaste)

Systemthatfailed:

Description of failure, including

time and duration, effects on

livestock, and any alternative

measuresimplementedor other

resolution.
July 2017

10. Laboratories Approved to Conduct Testsfor ProgramDiseases

Regulatoryauthority: 9CFR91.3(d).

Background:

Alltestsrequired by an importing countryfor Programdiseasesmust be conductedin

laboratoriesapproved by the Administrator.

Guidance:

Listsof laboratories approved by APHIS to conducttesting forspecific diseases may be found at

the followingWeb site: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/lab-infoservices/sa_approved_labs/ct_approved_labs
July 2017

11. Designated Ports of Embarkation

Regulatory authority: 9 CFR 91.9(a).

Background:

Livestock exported by air or sea may be exported only through ports designated as ports of

embarkation by the Administrator.

Guidance:

The following ports that have export inspection facilities which the Administrator has

determined satisfy the requirements of 9 CFR 91.9(a) and are designated as ports of

embarkation:

(1) California.

• Los Angeles—airport and sea port.

o Jet Pets, Inc., 9014 Pershing Drive, Plaza del Rey, CA 90291, (213) 823–8901.

o Valley Livestock, 14380 South Euclid Avenue, Chino, CA 91710, (909) 597–1756.

(2) Delaware.

• Wilmington – sea port.

o Boxwood Farms (horses only), 135 Iron Ore Road, Englishtown, NJ 07726, (732) 446-

7309.

o Mannington Meadows Farm, 60 Oechsle Road, Woodstown, NJ 08098, (609) 769-

2009.

o McCartney, Inc., 18537 South Dry Run Rd., Dry Run, PA 17220, (717) 349-7752.

o Pennsylvania Holstein Association Export Inspection Facility, 1806 River Road,

Middletown, PA 17057, (814) 234-0364.

o Wilkinson Farm, 1020 Broad Run Road, Landenburg, PA 19350, (610) 274-8670.

(3) Florida.

• Miami – airport and sea port.

o Blue Sky Farms, 12325 SW 51 Street, Miami, FL 33175, (786) 301-0464.
July 2017

o Horse Country Club, 6610 SW 123 Avenue, Miami, FL 33183, (305) 273-1075.

o Jacaranda Farms (horses only) 15460 SW 256 St, Homestead FL 33032, (305) 510-

2999.

o Sagamore Farm, 6375 SW 125th Ave, Miami, FL 33183, (305) 270-1928.

o Thebas Farms, 12401 SW 51 Street, Miami, FL 33175, (305) 381-0222.

• Port Everglades – sea port.

o Blue Sky Farms, 12325 SW 51 Street, Miami, FL 33175, (786) 301-0464.

o Horse Country Club, 6610 SW 123 Avenue, Miami, FL 33183, (305) 273-1075.

o Sagamore Farm, 6375 SW 125th Ave, Miami, FL 33183, (305) 270-1928.

o Thebas Farms, 12401 SW 51 Street, Miami, FL 33175, (305) 381-0222.

(4) Georgia.

• Atlanta Hartsfield International Airport – airport.

o Cartersville (horses only), 118 Old Mill Road, Cartersville, GA 30120, (770) 547-8916.

o Southern Crescent Equine Services LLC, 815 Herring Rd, Newnan, GA 30265, (770) 252-

6860.

(5) Illinois.

• Chicago—airport.

o C&R Midwest Quarantine Facilities, Ltd., Box 470, Route 31, Dundee, IL 60118,

(312) 426–5009.

o Chicago Equine Export Center (horses only), 8600 N. North Avenue, Melrose Park, IL

60160, (708) 615-0700.

o Chicago Import Quarantine, 2200 Euclid Ave P.O Box 7, Arlington Heights, IL 60006,

(847) 385-7609.
July 2017

(6) Louisiana.

• New Iberia—airport.

o Acadiana Regional Airport, Star R–3, Box 390–H (ARA), New Iberia, LA 70560, (318)

365–7204.

(7) New Jersey.

• Elizabeth – sea port.

o Boxwood Farms (horses only), 135 Iron Ore Road, Englishtown, NJ 07726, (732) 446-

7309.

o Cooper Farm (horses only), 19 Lot Road, Sussex NJ 07461, (973) 875-5569.

o Mannington Meadows Farm, 60 Oechsle Road, Woodstown, NJ 08098, (609) 769-

2009.

o Redfield Farm (horses only), 35 Salters Farm Rd, Califon, NJ 07830, (908) 832-5848.

o The U.S. Equestrian Team's headquarters (horses only), Pottersville Road, Gladstone,

NJ 07934, (908) 234-1251.

o Walnridge Farm, 44 Arneytown-Hornerstown Rd., Cream Ridge, NJ 08514,

(609) 758-9100

• Newark International Airport – airport.

o Boxwood Farms (horses only), 135 Iron Ore Road, Englishtown, NJ 07726, (732) 446-

7309.

o Cooper Farm (horses only), 19 Lot Road, Sussex NJ 07461, (973) 875-5569.

o Mannington Meadows Farm, 60 Oechsle Road, Woodstown, NJ 08098, (609) 769-

2009.

o Redfield Farm (horses only), 35 Salters Farm Rd, Califon, NJ 07830, (908) 832-5848.

o The U.S. Equestrian Team's headquarters (horses only) Pottersville Road, Gladstone,

NJ 07934, (908) 234-1251.

o Walnridge Farm, 44 Arneytown-Hornerstown Rd., Cream Ridge, NJ 08514

(609) 758-9100.
July 2017

• Salem— sea port.

o Boxwood Farms (horses only), 135 Iron Ore Road, Englishtown, NJ 07726 (732) 446-

7309.

o Mannington Meadows Farm, 60 Oechsle Road, Woodstown, NJ 08098,

(609) 769-2009.

o Walnridge Farm, 44 Arneytown-Hornerstown Rd., Cream Ridge, NJ 08514

(609)758-9100

(8) New York.

• New York—airport and sea port.

o Boxwood Farms (horses only), 135 Iron Ore Road, Englishtown, NJ 07726, (732) 446-

7309.

o Cooper Farm (horses only), 19 Lot Road, Sussex NJ 07461, (973) 875-5569.

o Hunters Moon (Equine) 6080 Northern Blvd East Norwich/ Muttontown NY, 11732

(516) 628-8300.

o Walnridge Farm, 44 Arneytown-Hornerstown Rd., Cream Ridge, NJ 08514,

(609) 758-9100.

(9) Ohio.

• Rickenbacker International Airport.

o Roslyn Manor, 4575 Grandview Road, Granville, OH 43203, (740) 975-7843.
July 2017

(10) Pennsylvania.

• Harrisburg—airport.

o Pennsylvania Holstein Association Export Inspection Facility, 1806 River Road,

Middletown, PA 17057, (717) 944–1374.

(11) Puerto Rico.

• San Juan—airport.

o El Commandante Race Track (Horses Only), P.O. Box 1304, Rio Piedras, PR 00929,

(809) 724–6060.

(12) Texas.

• Brownsville—airport, sea port, and border port.

o Texas Department of Agriculture, Livestock Inspection Facility, International Airport,

Brownsville, TX 78520, (512) 546–5135.

• Del Rio—border port.

o Texas Department of Agriculture, Livestock Export Facility, Box 1046, Del Rio, TX

78840, (512) 775–1518.

• Eagle Pass—border port.

o Texas Department of Agriculture, Livestock Export Facility, Box 1164, Eagle Pass, TX

78852, (512) 773–2359.

• El Paso—border port.

o Texas Department of Agriculture, Livestock Export Facility, 10800 Socorro Drive, El

Paso, TX 79927, (915) 543–7419.

• Houston—airport and sea port.

o Texas Department of Agriculture, Livestock Export Facility, Box 60107, AMF, Houston,

TX 77205, (713) 443–2447.

• Laredo—airport and border port.

o El Primero Equine Export Facility (horses only), Route 7, Box 305, Laredo, TX 78041,

(512) 723–5436.
July 2017

o Texas Department of Agriculture, Livestock Export Facility, Route 1, Box 67–P, Laredo,

TX 78040, (512) 722–6308.

(13) Washington.

• Olympia—sea port.

o Schorno Agri-Business, 17835 Highway 507 SE., Yelm, WA 98507, (360) 458–7788.

• Seattle—airport.

o Schorno Agri-Business, 17835 Highway 507 SE., Yelm, WA 98507, (360) 458–7788.
July 2017

Appendix I – Ocean Vessels: Use of Wood for Pen Construction

The following construction is acceptable when wood is used forstanchions,rails, gates, or

flooring:

1. Stanchions,rails,andgates.

1.1 General construction:

All pens3, including gatesand portable railsused to close access ways, are designed and

constructed of materialofsufficientstrength to securely contain the livestock. They are

properly formed, closely fitted, and rigidly secured in place. They have smooth finished

surfacesfree fromsharp protrusions. Theyhave no worn,decayed, unsound,or otherwise

defective parts.

1.2 For cattleandhorses:

• Railstanchions are constructed of at least 4 x 6-inch (10.16 x 15.24 cm) lumberset no

more than 5 feet (1.524m) apartfrom centerto center and secured to the ship'srails or

sides with 5⁄8-inch (1.59 cm) or larger bolts or collars and with heels braced to the side of

the hull or waterway (narrowpassage along the edge of a deck for drainage). Inboard

stanchions are constructed of atleast 4 × 6-inch (10.16 x 15.24 cm) lumberset in line with

the railstanchions and properlybraced. (Themethod of securing andbracing stanchions

may be modified as approved by the underwriterof the cargo bureau and the APHIS

representative.)

• On open railships,spacesbetween the rails are blocked outto permitthe affixing of

outside planking.

• Ifsupplementary stanchions are required forrump boards,these are at least 3 × 4 inches

(7.62 x 10.16 cm) in size and are secured to beams and decks as provided above.

• On upper deck fittings at ends of unprotected stalls, a stanchion not lessthan 3 × 4 inches

(7.62 x 10.16 cm) in size issimilarly spaced and secured to beams and decks and properly

braced.

• Stanchionson under decks are constructed,spaced, and secured in the samemanner as

upperdeck fittings.

3As used in thisHandbook, penmay mean the space for one animal (often referred to as a stall) orthe space for

morethan oneanimal.
July 2017

1.3 Forsheep, goats, and swine:

Stanchionsforsingle or double tier pens are constructed of lumber at least 3 × 4 inches (7.62 x

10.16 cm)set no more than 5 feet (1.524m) apart centerto center and secured as provided

under 1.2 above for cattle and horses.

1.4 For allspecies:

• Two beams of atleast 2 × 6-inch (5.08 x 15.24 cm) lumber are bolted on each side of the

stanchionsusing 5⁄8-inch (1.59 cm) or larger bolts,nuts, and washers. Thebeams

extend from outside planking to at least 2 feet (.610m) beyond the line of the breast

boards unlessthe beams butt on the ship's deck fittings. Two beams of at least 2 × 6-

inch (5.08 x 15.24 cm) lumber are used to supportthe roof ofsingle tierpens on

exposed decks and the floor of double tierpens on all decks.

• All gates have pivot pins at least 3⁄4 inch (1.91 cm) in diameter.

2. Breastorfrontboards,rumpboards,divisionboards,andfootboards.

2.1 General construction:

Pens are fitted with breast boards,rump boards, and division boards between pens at a height

suitable forthe speciesin orderto provide supportforthe animals. If feed and water

dispensers aremounted externally to the stallsor pens, breast boards are arranged as 

necessary (including through use of removable boards)to allowlivestock accessto the feed and

water.

2.2 Forhorses:

• Breast boards: All pens are equipped with breast boards of notlessthan 2 × 10-inch

(5.08 x 25.4 cm) dressed lumber with thetop edge placed 3 feet 10 inches(1.168m)

from the floor and securely nailed to the stanchions. Where butting occurs,the joints

are on the stanchions and are covered withmetal plates 3 inches(7.62 cm)square or 5

inches(12.7 cm) in diameter and not lessthan 1⁄4 inch (.64 cm)thick. A 5⁄8-inch (1.59

cm) or larger bolt passesthrough the plate, joint, and stanchion and issecurely fastened

with a nut. All breast boardshave 1-inch (2.54 cm) holes bored through them at proper

distancesfortying animals. An occasional pen mayhave a removable breast board so

that animalsmay be loaded into and removed fromthe pen.

• Foot boards: All pens have foot boards of not lessthan 2 × 10-inch (5.08 x 25.4 cm)

lumbersecurelynailed or bolted to the stanchions. Atthe discretion ofthe APHIS

representative,smallponies, asses,smallmules, mares with foal atfoot, young
July 2017

unbroken horses or gentle horses of any size may be stowed loose in pens. In these

cases, a sufficient number of finished lumber at least 2 × 10 inches(5.08 x 25.4 cm) are

placed between thebreast and foot boardsto effectively contain the animals.

• Rump boards: All pens have rump boardsthat form a solid wall at least 4 feet 6 inches

(1.372 m) high and made of lumber not lessthan 1-1⁄2 inch (3.8 cm)thick if tongued and

grooved or 2 inches(5.08cm)thick ifsquare edged or of plywood of the same

strength. Where the deck is clear of obstructions,rump boards maybe set on the inside

ofthe railstanchions. Otherwise,sections affected are brought forward to clearsuch

obstructions and are fastened by stanchionsprovided forthis purpose. On lower decks

where the ship's construction so justifies,rump boardsmay be affixed to wooden pieces

at least 2 x 6 inches(5.08 x 15.24 cm)set the same as described forstanchions. Rump

boardsmay be formed by filling spaces between cargo battens. Rumpboardsin pens

built alongside hatchesneed be carried down only to the coaming line (vertical

boundary of a hatch).

• Division boards: Division boards are used to separate all pens and to close the sides of

pens atthe ends of rows. They are used in sets of four boards of 2 × 10-inch (5.08 x 25.4

cm) dressed lumberseparated by 3-inch (7.62 cm)spacers, extend fromthe rump 

boardsto the inboard stanchions, and are fitted into appropriate channelsor slots at

both endsin a mannerthat permitstheirready removal.

2.3 For cattle:

• Breast orfront boards and foot boards: All pens have breast orfront boards and foot

boards as described above forhorses, except thatthe breast orfront boardsare

constructed in sets of three or more boards of dressed lumber at least 2 x 10 inches

(5.08 x 25.4 cm)separated by 3-inch (7.62 cm)spacers and placed on the foot board so

that the front of the pen extends 48 inches(1.219m) or more in heightfromthe floor.

One or more of the breast boards may be left off if feed or watertroughs are to be

mounted externally.

• Rump boards: All pens have rump boards as described above for horses, exceptthatthe

rump boardsfor cattle form a solid wall at least 4 feet (1.219m) high.

• Division boards: Division boards as described above for horses are used to separate all

pens and to close the sides of pens at the ends ofrows.
July 2017

2.4 Forsheep, goats, and swine:

• Front boards: All pens are fitted with front boardsof not lessthan 1 × 6-inch (2.54 x 15.24

cm) lumber approximately spaced and extending to the properheightforthese species. A

section of front boardsmay be removable to allow animalsto be moved into or out of

pens and forfeedingor watering.

• Rump boards: All pens on exposed decks have rump boards as described above for

horses, exceptthatthe rump boardsforsheep, goats, and swine form a solid wall 2-1/2

feet (0.762m) high.

• Division boards: Division boards and boardsforming the ends of pens are as described for

rump boardsforthese animals.

3. Wooden flooring.

3.1 For cattleand horses:

• Flooring is laid athwartship and secured by placing ends beneath the underside of foot and

rump boards or under a 2 × 4-inch (5.08 x 10.16 cm) strip nailed along these boards. Floors

may be either of two types, flush orraised. The flush type is constructed of not less

than 1-inch (2.54 cm)thick lumberlaid flat on the deck. The raised type is constructed of

not lessthan 2-inch (5.08cm)thick lumber nailed to scantlings of at least 2 × 3-inch (5.08 x

7.62 cm) dimensionslaid 2 feet 6 inches(0.762m) apart. If desired,flooringmay be laid in

portable sections. Flooring is not necessary on ships with wooden decks provided foot

locks are secured to the decks.

• Floors have fourfoot locks of 1 × 4-inch (2.54x 10.16 cm) lumberlaid fore and aft with

flatside down, and so placed asto provide in-between spacesof 12, 14, 26, and 14 inches

(30.48,35.56, 66.04, and 35.56 cm), beginning atinside of the footboard. Additionalfoot

locks are placed at 14-inch (35.56 cm) intervalsin pens having a depth of 9 feet (2.743m)

or more. They are wellsecured with nails of a length that willpermit 1-inch (2.54 cm)

clinch in 1-inch (2.54 cm)flooring and 2-inch (5.08 cm) penetration in 2-inch (5.08 cm)

flooring.

3.2 Forsheep, goats, and swine:

• Flooring islaid asdescribed above for horses and cattle,exceptthatthe raised flooring

need not be greaterthan 12 inches(30.48 cm)thick.

• Floorshave foot locks of not lessthan 1 × 2-inch (2.54 x 5.08 cm)lumber,fourto each pen,

equallydistributed and laid as described above for horses and cattle.
July 2017

Appendix II – Cargo Containersfor Livestock Shipped by Air

APHISdoes notrequirethe use of any particularmaterialfor cargo containersused for livestock

shipped for export by air. However, any such materialsmust be of sufficientstrength to

securely contain the animalsshipped. The LiveAnimal Regulations(LAR) of the International

Air TransportAssociation (IATA)provides a useful guidance regarding suitable materials. The

IATA guide isavailableathttp://www.iata.org/publications/Pages/live-animals.aspx. (Please

note: IATA charges a feeforthe LAR.)

Additionally,APHIS inspectorsusing the following standards as guidelinesin determining

whether a cargo container hassufficientspacefor animalsdestinedfor export:

Table 1: Calves,Cattle, Pigs, and Sheep

Species Weight

(lb)

Density

(lb/m2)

Spaceper

Animal

(ft2)

No. of

Animalsper

100ft2

Animalspersingle tier

pallet

88 X

108”

88 X

125”

96 X

125”

Calves 110 45 2.45 40 24 28 31

154 50 3.10 32 20 23 25

176 54 3.25 30 18 21 24

198 56 3.50 28 17 20 22

Cattle 660 70 9.00 11 6 7 8

1100 80 13.75 7 4 5 5

1320 84 15.66 6 3-4 4 4-5

1540 87 17.60 5 3 3-4 4

Pigs 55 35 1.60 64 37 44 48

220 40 5.50 18 10 12 14

Sheep 55 30 1.80 55 32 37 42

154 40 3.85 26 15 18 20
July 2017

Table 2: Horses

Weight(lbs) Space per horse (ft

2

)

0-220

221-440

441-680

661-880

881-1000

1101-1320

1321-1540

1541-1760

4.52

7.10

9.36

11.19

12.81

14.42

16.25

18.62
July 2017

AppendixIII: RecommendationsforExportIsolationFacilities

Background:

Livestockmay have to be isolated for a period of time priorto exportin order to meet

the health requirementsofthe country to which they will be shipped. While these

requirementsdifferfromcountry to country and even among classesof livestock

destinedfor export, andAPHIS recommendsthat exporters contacttheimporting

countrydirectlyregardingthe requirements,thereare certaingenerallyapplicable

standardsthat, in our experience, apply to the importrequirementsfor many countries

and classes of animals. These are:

1.1 Cleaning anddisinfection.

• Pastures and exercise areasincluded in the exportisolation facility are clean.

• All stables, barns, walkways, and equipmentto be used in the exportisolation facility

have been cleaned priorto use for isolation.

• During the isolation period, the exportisolationfacility requiresall protective outer

clothing forpersonnel and all feeding, grooming, and cleaning equipmentto be used

exclusively within the exportisolation facility orto be properly cleaned and disinfected

between usesif used with animals outside the exportisolation facility.

1.2 Watersupply.

The export isolation facility has an adequate supply of water available at alltimesforthe

isolated animalsto drink and for cleaning purposes.

1.3 Feed,bedding, and otheressential items.

Suppliesof feed, beddingmaterial, and other essential items are deliveredand stored in

a mannerthat prevents contact with animalsnot intended for export.

1.4 Drainage.

Drainage is channeled away from areasin the exportisolationfacility.
July 2017

1.5 Isolation.

• The isolation period starts when the last animalto be exported entersthe export

isolation facility, at which time the supervisingaccredited veterinarian (or, ifrequested

by the importing country,APHIS veterinarian) completes and signs an inventory of all

livestock in the exportisolation facility.

• All isolated animals are confined within the exportisolation facility.

• Measuresare taken to prevent other animalsfromapproachingwithin 30 feet ofthe

isolated livestock (including in any outdoorfacilities,pastures,tracks, paddocks, or fields

that are part of the export isolation facility).

1.6 Personnelauthorizedentry.

• Only personnel authorized bythe supervising accredited veterinarianor APHIS

veterinarianmay enterthe exportisolation facility. The exportisolation facility

maintains an entry/exit log and/or a list of authorized personnel.

1.7 Unannouncedinspections.

The export isolation facility is available during the isolation period for unannounced

inspectionsby anaccredited veterinarian or APHIS representative.

1.8 Removal oflivestock fromthe exportisolationfacility.

• No animal is removed from the export isolation facility until testing for Program diseases

(e.g., tuberculosis, brucellosis, pseudorabies) is completed and the isolated herd is found

negative.

• Animalsmay be removedfrom the exportisolation facility only with the approval ofthe

supervisingaccredited veterinarianorAPHIS veterinarian.

• The export isolation facility keepsrecords of allremoved animals and the reason forthe

removal (e.g., calving,no longer wanted by buyer).
July 2017

Appendix IV – Recommendations for Livestock Inspection

1. Official Identification Verification

USDA-accredited veterinarians are required to perform ID verification on 100% of the animals

that are listed on export veterinary health certificates, without exception.

Unless doing so conflicts with the trading partner's import health requirements, USDA APHIS VS

will calculate the statistically accurate proportion of the animals to be ID verified during VS preexport inspection. This calculation will provide a 99% confidence interval with a 1% error rate.

Exporters are still permitted to elect to have VS ID verify of 100% of all livestock, rather than

the calculated proportion of animals, if they prefer. This option will incur additional hourly

APHIS user fee charges for VS time for inspection. Please note that if a trading partner's import

health requirements require VS to complete 100% ID verification during pre-export inspection,

VS will uphold this requirement and will not offer a calculated proportion for ID verification.

1.1 Calculation:

Example calculations:

• If there are 20 head of livestock from the same isolation group, VS will need to ID verify

all 20 (100%) of those animals during pre-export inspection.

• If there are 200 head of livestock from the same isolation group, VS will only need to ID

verify 180 (90%) of those animals during pre-export inspection.

• If there are 500 head of livestock from the same isolation group, VS will only need to ID

verify 300 (60%) of those animals during pre-export inspection.

• If there are 2,000 head of livestock from the same isolation group, VS will only need to

ID verify 410 (20%) of those animals during pre-export inspection.

This calculated proportion of animals to be ID verified during pre-export inspection gives us

99% confidence interval that there is less than 1% error rate in the identification of those

animals presented for export.

2.2 Error encountered:

If an erroneous identification number or an unlisted animal or any other problematic finding is

encountered during this proportional ID verification process, the exporter will then have two

options:

Option One: the Export Inspection Facility’s USDA-accredited veterinarian must re-verify

100% of all livestock presented for export, and reschedule VS inspection. This may result

in the delay of the shipment and the need to revise or reissue the APHIS-endorsed

export veterinary health certificate.

Option Two: request VS to ID verify of 100% of all livestock presented for export, and

attempt to rectify the erroneous animal. The shipment could go forward as planned, if
July 2017

time permits. The exporter will incur additional hourly APHIS user fee charges for VS

time for inspection.

2. Recommendations for Rejection of Livestock Based on Signs of Contagious Disease

2.1 Warts

Unless doing so conflicts with the trading partner's import health requirements, an animal

with a small number of warts may be cleared for export. An animal with extensive warts

(e.g. warts covering much of one side of the neck or a large number of warts on the face)

shall not be cleared for export. The acceptability of borderline cases will be left to the

APHIS veterinarian's professional judgment.

Note: APHIS inspector(s)shall not remove, nor allow others to remove, warts at the Export

Inspection Facility (EIF), as medical treatment of an animal at the EIF is generally not

allowed (only with rare exception, warts not being one of them).

2.2 Ringworm

Unless doing so conflicts with the trading partner's import health requirements, an animal

with healing ringworm lesions may be cleared for export. An animal with moderate to

extensive active ringworm lesions shall not be cleared for export. Indicators of active

ringworm including, but are not limited to, scaling, crusting, scabbing, hair loss with little to

no hair (re)growth (except in the case of scarring), and, where possible to discern,

erythema. The presence of any substances which is intended to obscure ringworm lesions

will be considered grounds to disqualify an animal for export, as medical treatment of an

animal at the EIF is generally not allowed.

2.3 Eye Problems

Animals that are blind in both eyes shall not be cleared for export. An animal with one or

more ocular tumors, keratitis, keratoconjunctivitis(pinkeye), moderate-severe uveitis,

moderate-severe conjunctivitis, moderate-severe ocular discharge related to the

inflammatory process (whether serous, mucoid, or mucopurulent), enlargement of the

eyeball, exophthalmos (bulging of the eye), shall not be cleared for export. An animal with

slight conjunctivitis and/or slight serous or mucoid ocular discharge, may be cleared for

export. Pinkeye that has healed/resolved and resulted in a scar (a small white disc on the

globe of the eye that does not impede vision with no ocular discharge) may be cleared for

export.
July 2017

Appendix V — Export Facility Inspection Checklists

1. Permanent Export Inspection Facility Inspection Checklist

2. Temporary ExportInspection Facility Inspection Checklist

3. ExportIsolation Facility Inspection Checklist
Page 1 of 5

July 2017

PERMANENT EXPORT INSPECTION FACILITY INSPECTIONCHECKLIST

Name and address of the export facility operator Name and address of the export facility

1. The facility floors of pens, alleys, and chutes are fully disinfectable* and skid resistant. The

cleaning and disinfection (C&D) must be conducted after every livestock export shipment and

prior to facility inspection/ approval.

* Disinfectable materials are those which resist the absorption of fluids, such as concrete,

asphalt, brick, and metal (dirt floors or other permeable surfaces not allowed).

PASS FAIL

Remarks:

2. Fences, gates, and other parts of the facility used for animals are constructed of material, such as

wood or metal, which can securely restrain the animals in a safe and humane manner.

PASS FAIL

Remarks:

3. The facility has overhead coverage adequate to protect the animals from continuous exposure to

sun and inclement weather. The entire designated inspection area must be covered to protect

from inclement weather.

PASS FAIL

Remarks:

4. The facility has adequate space and/or scheduling to accommodate the animals in a single export

shipment.

PASS FAIL

Remarks:
Page 2 of 5

July 2017

5. The facility has a separate area for inspection and identification of animals that is equipped

with animal restraining devices which allow for the safe and humane handling of animals

during inspection. Any ceilings of the designated inspection area are high enough to safely

allow ingress and egress of livestock.

NOTE: If horses will be inspected at the facility, areas where horses are inspected have ceilings

at least 12-feet high and there are walkways in front of horse stalls wide enough to allow APHIS

personnel to safely remove horses from the stalls for inspection, if necessary.

PASS FAIL

Remarks:

6. The facility has sufficient personnel to ensure that animals can be unloaded and moved into the

inspection area in a safe and humane manner.

PASS FAIL

Remarks:

7. The facility is equipped with artificial lighting that provides sufficient illumination in the

inspection area for APHIS to conduct thorough visual veterinary health inspections.

PASS FAIL

Remarks:

8. Separate pens or yards are provided for segregation and/or treatment of animals of questionable

health status apart from animals qualified for export and adequately maintain control of those

animals excluded from the shipment (e.g. hold/ reject pen).

PASS FAIL

Remarks:

9. The facility and all equipment used in contact with animals is cleaned and disinfected with an

approved chemical disinfectant that is registered with or exempted by EPA for the diseases of

concern based on the species being handled. For more information, please see the Program

Handbook.

PASS FAIL

Remarks:
Page 3 of 5

July 2017

10. The facility is accessible to an APHIS inspector at all times, day and night.

PASS FAIL

Remarks:

11. A suitable work area/ office and restroom facility are provided for use by APHIS representatives.

PASS FAIL

Remarks:

12. The arrangements for handling the animals shall be subject to the approval of the APHIS

inspector, which shall be granted only if he or she finds that such arrangements will not

permit the spread of communicable livestock diseases to the animals in the export shipment.

PASS FAIL

Remarks:

13. Testing and treatment of animals in the export inspection facility shall be performed by a

USDA-accredited veterinarian under the supervision of an APHIS veterinarian.

PASS FAIL

Remarks:

14. The facility is arranged in such a way as to isolate all animals in each export shipment from all

other animals, by either a 30 foot separation or solid wall, to prevent direct and indirect contact

between animal groups and their effluence.

PASS FAIL

Remarks:

15. Personnel tending the animals who have had contact with animals outside the facility are required

to change or sanitize their outer clothing and footwear before entering areas used for animals.

PASS FAIL

Remarks:
Page 4 of 5

July 2017

16. The facility has running water available to wash the facility.

PASS FAIL

Remarks:

17. The facility has a drainage system that controls surface drainage into and from the facility in a

manner that prevents any significant risk of livestock diseases being spread into or from the

facility.

PASS FAIL

Remarks:

18. The facility has an ample supply of potable and accessible water that is made available to the

livestock. In cold weather, the water shall be kept free from ice.

PASS FAIL

Remarks:

19. The application for approval of a permanent export inspection facility is accompanied by a

certificate/letter from the authorities having jurisdiction over environmental affairs regarding

disposal of animal wastes in the locality of the facility. The certificate/letter should state that

the facility complies with the applicable State and/or local regulations, if any (attach to

checklist). The letter will be valid for up to 365 days unless the environmental letter specifies

a different period of validity.

NOTE: If there are no local applicable environmental regulations, the certificate/ letter issued by

the authorities having jurisdiction over environmental affairs may simply state that no regulations

related to disposal of animal waste apply to the facility.

PASS FAIL

Remarks:

20. APHIS inspector was provided with a map or schematic of the facility (attach to checklist)

requesting approval, or annual renewal of approval of facility, to include total square 

footage of the animal holding areas in the export inspection facility.

NOTE: Size of animal holding areas will be used to calculate the maximum number of animal

allowed in the facility per the VS Program Handbook.

PASS FAIL

Remarks:
Page 5 of 5

July 2017

____ ____

___ ___

APPROVAL/DISAPPROVAL OF PERMANENT EXPORT INSPECTION FACILITY

(Inspection must occur at least every 365 days to maintain status as a Permanent EIF)

1. Indicate if for: Initial approval Renewal of approval

2. Date of inspection: Valid through:

3. Species to be handled by the facility: 

4. Maximum number of animals to be handled at the facility, including animal type and

average weight used to calculate maximum number of head: 

5. Designated port(s) of embarkation this EIF will service AND estimated travel time to

(each) port:

Based on my inspection, I recommend facility for Permanent _ _Approval _Disapproval.

Name of APHIS Inspector

Signature of APHIS Inspector Title Date

REVIEWED AND APPROVED

Name and Signature of Service Center Director (or Acting) Date

Name and Signature of Air and Sea Ports/ AIC Director (or Acting) Date
Page 1 of 5

July 2017

TEMPORARY EXPORT INSPECTION FACILITY INSPECTION CHECKLIST

Name and address of the export facility operator Name and address of the export facility

1. The facility floors of pens, alleys, and chutes are cleaned to remove organic animal material

(e.g. effluence and feces) prior to facility inspection/ approval.

PASS FAIL N/A

Remarks:

2. Fences, gates, and other parts of the facility used for animals are constructed of material, such

as wood or metal, which can securely restrain the animals in a safe and humane manner.

PASS FAIL

Remarks:

3. The facility has overhead coverage adequate to protect the animals from continuous exposure

to sun and inclement weather. The entire designated inspection area must be covered to

protect from inclement weather.

PASS FAIL

Remarks:

4. The facility has a separate area for inspection and identification of animals that is

equipped with animal restraining devices which allow for the safe and humane handling

of animals during inspection. Any ceilings of the designated inspection area are high

enough to safely allow ingress and egress of livestock.

NOTE: If horses will be inspected at the facility, areas where horses are inspected have

ceilings at least 12-feet high and there are walkways in front of horse stalls wide enough to

allow APHIS personnel to safely remove horses from the stalls for inspection, if necessary.

PASS FAIL

Remarks:
Page 2 of 5

July 2017

5. The facility has sufficient personnel to ensure that animals can be unloaded and moved into

the inspection area in a safe and humane manner.

PASS FAIL

Remarks:

6. The export isolation facility has a designated area for inspection of livestock that is of

sound construction, sturdy enough to accommodate large numbers of large/heavy

livestock, and wide enough to allow easy movement of livestock through the area during

inspections.

PASS FAIL

Remarks:

7. Lighting in the inspection area provides sufficient lighting for inspectors to conduct

inspections OR the facility is equipped with artificial lighting that provides sufficient

illumination in the inspection area for APHIS to conduct thorough visual veterinary health

inspections.

PASS FAIL

Remarks:

8. Separate pens or yards are provided for segregation and/or treatment of animals of

questionable health status apart from animals qualified for export and adequately maintain

control of those animals excluded from the shipment (e.g. hold/ reject pen).

PASS FAIL

Remarks:

9. All equipment used in contact with animals is cleaned and disinfected with an approved

chemical disinfectant that is registered with or exempted by EPA for the diseases of concern

based on the species being handled. For more information, please see the Program

Handbook.

PASS FAIL

Remarks:
Page 3 of 5

July 2017

10. The facility is accessible to an APHIS inspector at all times, day and night.

PASS FAIL

Remarks:

11. A suitable work area/ office and restroom facility are provided for use by APHIS

representatives.

PASS FAIL

Remarks:

12. The arrangements for handling the animals shall be subject to the approval of the APHIS

inspector, which shall be granted only if he or she finds that such arrangements will not

permit the spread of communicable livestock diseases to the animals in the export

shipment.

PASS FAIL

Remarks:

13. Testing and treatment of animals in the export inspection facility shall be performed by a

USDA-accredited veterinarian under the supervision of an APHIS veterinarian.

PASS FAIL

Remarks:

14. The facility is arranged in such a way as to isolate all animals in each export shipment from

all other animals, by either a 30 foot separation or solid wall, to prevent direct and indirect

contact between animal groups and their effluence.

PASS FAIL

Remarks:

15. Personnel tending the animals who have had contact with animals outside the facility are

required to change or sanitize their outer clothing and footwear before entering areas used for

animals.

PASS FAIL

Remarks:
July 2017

16. The facility has a drainage system that controls surface drainage into and from the facility in 

a manner that prevents any significant risk of livestock diseases being spread into or from the

facility.

PASS FAIL

Remarks:

17. The facility has an ample supply of potable and accessible water that is made available to the

livestock. In cold weather, the water shall be kept free from ice.

PASS FAIL

Remarks:

18. APHIS inspector was provided with a map or schematic of the facility (attach to

checklist) requesting approval to include total square footage of the animal holding areas

in the export inspection facility.

NOTE: Size of animal holding areas will be used to calculate the maximum number of

animal allowed in the facility per the VS Program Handbook

PASS FAIL

Remarks:

Page 4 of 5
July 2017

___ ___

APPROVAL/DISAPPROVAL OF TEMPORARY EXPORT INSPECTION FACILITY

The facility is being approved on a per shipment basis. This approval does not guarantee

approval of the facility for multiple or future shipments.

1. Date of inspection:

2. Species to be handled by the facility: 

3. Maximum number of animals to be handled at the facility, including animal type and

average weight used to calculate maximum number of head: 

4. Estimated date of embarkation/ export:

5. Designated port of embarkation this EIF will service AND estimated travel time to port:

Based on my inspection, I recommend facility for temporary _ _Approval _ Disapproval.

Name of APHIS Inspector

Signature of APHIS Inspector Title Date

REVIEWED AND APPROVED

Name and Signature of Service Center Director (or Acting) Date

Name and Signature of Air and Sea Ports/ AIC Director (or Acting) Date

Page 5 of 5
July 2017

Per 9 CFR Part 91.11, “Export isolation: If an importing country requires export isolation for livestock, such

isolation must occur before the animals may be moved to a port of embarkation, and both the manner in which this

isolation occurs and the facility at which it occurs must meet the requirements specified by the importing country.”

Per VS Memo 592.105 Part IV. Section B, “USDA-Approved Export Isolation vs. Other Export Isolation”: When

the foreign import health protocol (IHP) states that the animals for export must be subjected to “USDA-approved,”

“officially approved,” “approved by the competent authority,” or an “approved” isolation, before initiating each

isolation the facility must be inspected and approved by an APHIS inspector and the export isolation facility

inspection checklist completed and filed with the appropriate NIES Service Center for reference. The APHIS

inspector should review the IHP for any additional isolation facility requirements.

In general, if the IHP requires the animals to be isolated in a facility that is “approved by the accredited

veterinarian,” or “other export isolation,” this does not require an APHIS inspection. The facility may request an

APHIS inspection and hourly User Fees would apply.

EXPORT ISOLATION FACILTY INSPECTION CHECKLIST

Export Isolation Facility (physical location):

Name:

Address:

Telephone:

Export Isolation Facility Owner/Manager:

Name:

Address:

Telephone:

Supervising USDA Accredited Veterinarian:

Name:

Address:

Telephone:

National Accreditation Number:
July 2017

EXPORT ISOLATION FACILTY INSPECTION CHECKLIST

1. The Isolation Facility may include pastures, stables, feedlots and barns. Pastures and exercise areas

included in the isolation facility are clean. All stables, barns, walkways, and equipment to be used in the

isolation facility have been cleaned and disinfected if necessary.

Pass Fail

Remarks

2. Measures are taken to prevent other animals from approaching within 30 feet of the isolated animals

(including any outdoor facilities or pastures that are part of the Isolation Facility).

Pass Fail

Remarks

3. An adequate water supply is available at all times for the isolated animals and for cleaning purposes.

Pass Fail

Remarks

4. Supplies of food, bedding material and other essential items, are delivered and stored in the manner that

prevents contact with animals not intended for export.

Remarks

Pass Fail

5. Drainage is channeled away from areas that are included within the Isolation Facility.

Pass Fail

Remarks

6. The owner/manager understands that during the isolation period, protective outer clothing and all feeding,

grooming, and cleaning equipment must be used exclusively within the Isolation Facility, or properly

cleaned and disinfected between uses if used with animals outside the isolation

Pass Fail

Remarks

7. The owner/manager and accredited veterinarian understand that the isolation period starts when the last

animal to be exported enters the Isolation Facility.

Remarks

Pass Fail
July 2017

8. The owner/manager and accredited veterinarian understand that all isolated animals must be confined

within the Isolation Facility. If exercise facilities are included within the Isolation Facility (tracks,

paddocks, fields) the owner/manager and accredited veterinarian must understand that the isolated animals

must remain separated from other animals throughout the entire isolation period.

Pass Fail

Remarks

9. The owner/manager understand that only personnel authorized by the supervising accredited veterinarian

may enter the Isolation Facility. The facility shall keep properly maintained entry/exit log for all visitors

other than authorized personnel.

Remarks

Pass Fail

10. The owner/manager understand that the facility will be available for unannounced inspections by the

accredited veterinarian or Supervising Federal Official at any time during the isolation period.

Remarks

Pass Fail

11. The accredited veterinarian understands that only livestock that complete the testing requirements and

isolation period required by the importing country are eligible for export.

Remarks

Pass Fail

12. The accredited veterinarian understands that after the facility has been approved and the last animal

enters the isolation facility, the accredited veterinarian must accurately complete and sign an isolation

inventory sheet.

Remarks

Pass Fail

13. None of the animals can be removed from the export isolation facility until testing for program diseases

(e.g. tuberculosis, brucellosis, pseudorabies, etc.) is completed (if required by the importing country) and

the isolated herd is found negative.

Animals can be removed from the export isolation facility after consulting with the supervising accredited

veterinarian or APHIS veterinarian. The export isolation facility must keep record of all removed animals

and the reason (e.g. calving, no longer wanted by the buyer, etc.) for removal.

14. Based on “EXPORT ISOLATION FACILTY INSPECTION CHECKLIST” owner/manager/accredited

veterinarian agreement may be prepared.
July 2017

___ ____

APPROVAL/DISAPPROVAL OF EXPORT ISOLATION FACILTY

1. Date of Inspection: Expected Isolation Start Date: 

2. Country of Destination: Minimum Required Isolation Period: 

3. Species to be handled by the facility:

4. Maximum number of animals to be handled at the facility, including animal type and

average weight:

5. Approved Export Inspection Facility (EIF) this isolation will utilize:

6. Approved Port of Embarkation this isolation will utilize:

Is this isolation facility seeking approval to become a Temporary EIF? No Yes*

*If YES, then a Temporary Export Inspection Facility (EIF) Inspection Checklist must be completed.

Signature of Export Isolation Facility Owner/Manager Date

Signature of Supervising USDA Accredited Veterinarian Date

Based on my inspection, I recommend facility for Approval Disapproval

Name of APHIS Inspector

Signature of APHIS Inspector Title Date

REVIEWED AND APPROVED

Name and Signature of NIES Director (or Acting) Date