The only exception to not using brooder guards is where the grower has well insulated houses and is capable of maintaining at least 85 room temperature at the floor level in the entire brooding area to allow forwarm room brooding. Adequate ventilation should be provided from the time the chicks arrive to eliminate ammonia fumes, provide necessary oxygen, and prevent moisture buildup in the house. These systems must be checked out on a regular basis and maintained at all times. Adequate window materials will be installed and maintained to provide proper protection from cold and drafts. Growers with back picking or feathering problems must find ways to control the natural light in their houses.
Wire netting is to cover all openings in the poultry houses.
One inch poultry netting should be used to cover all doors, windows, and fan openings to prevent animals or birds from entering the houses. The labor for unloading the chicks and placing them under the stoves is the responsibility of the grower. At least one person for each 15,000 chicks should be available when the truck arrives on the farm to help with the unloading. It is very important to get the chicks unloaded and placed under the brooders as rapidly as possible to avoid overheating or chilling.