The Welfare of Animals (Transport) Order 1997
© Crown Copyright 1997 All Crown copyrights are reserved. The text may be downloaded freely to file or printer for the purposes of private reference, research or study without requiring specific prior permission. The text may also be used freely within value-added products without requiring specific prior permission, provided that the text is reproduced accurately, is not used in a misleading manner, and is accompanied by an acknowledgment of Crown copyright. Applications for any other proposed use of this text should be made to the Copyright Unit, Her Majesty's Stationery Office, St Clements House, 2-16 Colegate, Norwich NR3 1BQ. For further details on the licensing of Crown and Parliamentary copyright material, see current guidance issued by Her Majesty's Stationery Office. The text of this Internet version of the Statutory Instrument has been prepared to reflect the text as it was Made. The authoritative version is in printed form and is published by The Stationery Office Limited as the The Welfare of Animals (Transport) Order 1997, ISBN 0 11 063764 X, £5.60 sterling. For details of how to obtain a printed copy see How to obtain The Stationery Office Limited titles. ANIMALS ANIMAL HEALTH The Welfare of Animals (Transport) Order 1997
ARRANGEMENT OF ARTICLES
The Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, the Secretary of State for Scotland and the Secretary of State for Wales, acting jointly, in exercise of the powers conferred on them by sections 1, 7, 8(1), 37, 38(1), 39, 72, 83(2) and 87(2), (3) and (5)(a) of the Animal Health Act 1981[1], and of all other powers enabling them in that behalf, hereby make the following Order: Title and commencement
Application
(b) poultry, domestic birds and domestic rabbits; (c) domestic dogs and domestic cats; (d) all other mammals (except man) and birds; (e) other vertebrate animals and cold-blooded animals,
(2) This Order (except as provided for in paragraph
(3) below) shall not apply:
(b) to the transport of any individual animal accompanied by a natural person who has responsibility for the animal during transport; (c) to the transport of pet animals accompanying their owner on a
private journey.
(4) The Secretary of State for Scotland may, if he thinks fit, exempt any person transporting animals within The Highlands and Islands Enterprise area from any of the provisions of this Order other than article 4(1) and article 6. (5) An exemption under the preceding paragraph may be granted subject to conditions, and may be varied, suspended or revoked at any time. (6) For the purposes of this article "the Highlands and Islands Enterprise area" has the meaning assigned to it by section 21(1) of the Enterprise and New Towns (Scotland) Act 1990[2]. Interpretation
(b) domestic breeds of turkeys, guinea-fowl, ducks, geese and quails; and (c) pheasants and partridges;
(b) for the account of a third party, or (c) by providing a third party with a means of transport of animals,
(3) Markets as described in paragraph (2) above may also be regarded as places of departure where, although the first place of loading of the animals is more than 50 km from the said markets, the animals have had a rest period of at least 12 hours and have been provided with an adequate quantity of suitable food and with an adequate quantity of liquid before being reloaded. (4) Unless the context otherwise requires, any reference in this Order to a numbered article or Schedule is a reference to that article or Schedule in this Order. (5) Any reference in this Order to a Community instrument is a reference to that instrument as amended at the date this Order is made. (6) Any certificate or approval under this Order shall be in writing and may be subject to conditions and may be amended, suspended or revoked by notice in writing at any time. General provisions on the protection of animals in transport
(2) Without prejudice to the generality of paragraph (1) above, a master of a vessel shall not transport any animal by sea, and a commander of an aircraft shall not transport any animal by air, if in his judgement the animal is likely to be caused injury or unnecessary suffering in the course of the transport due to adverse weather, sea or air conditions likely to be encountered during the voyage or flight. (3) Any person transporting cattle, sheep, pigs, goats or horses shall do so in accordance with Schedules 1 and 2. (4) Any person transporting poultry and domestic birds or domestic rabbits shall do so in accordance with Schedules 1 and 3. (5) Any person transporting domestic dogs or domestic cats shall do so in accordance with Schedules 1 and 4. (6) Any person transporting mammals or birds of a type not mentioned in the preceding paragraphs shall do so in accordance with Schedules 1 and 5. (7) Any person transporting vertebrate animals or cold-blooded animals of a type not mentioned in the preceding paragraphs shall do so in accordance with the provisions of Schedule 6. Space allowance
(2) In deciding whether or not the space available
is adequate, a transporter shall -
(b) consider the animal's weight, size and physical condition, the
means of transport, the weather conditions and the likely journey time.
6. - (1) No person shall transport any animal unless -
(b) suitable provision has been made for its care during the journey
and on arrival at the place of destination.
(3) For the purposes of this article mammals shall
not be considered fit for transport if they -
(b) have given birth during the preceding 48 hours; or (c) are new-born animals in which the navel has not completely healed.
(5) Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph (1) above, animals transported while undergoing regulated procedures authorised under the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986[6] may be transported provided that they are not likely to be caused injury or unnecessary suffering by the intended journey. (6) Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraphs (1) and (2) above, any cattle, sheep, pigs, goats and horses may be transported to the nearest available place for veterinary treatment or diagnosis, or to the nearest available place of slaughter if the animal is not likely to be subject to unnecessary suffering by reason of its unfitness. However, an animal transported under the provisions of this paragraph may not be dragged or pushed by any means, or lifted by a mechanical device, unless this is done in the presence of and under the supervision of a veterinary surgeon who is arranging for it to be transported with all practicable speed to a place for veterinary treatment. (7) No person shall transport a deer in velvet unless the journey is of 50 km or less and special precautions are taken to protect it from injury or unnecessary suffering. Treatment of sick animals
(2) Without prejudice to the generality of paragraph (1), where an animal which is being transported by sea or air falls ill or is injured during the journey, the master of the vessel or the commander of the aircraft shall, if he considers it necessary having regard to the availability of appropriate veterinary treatment or of landing the animal without causing it unnecessary suffering, cause it to be slaughtered in a way which does not involve unnecessary suffering. (3) Subject to the provisions of section 46 of the Animal Health Act 1981 (which provides for the slaughter of injured horses), the requirements of paragraph (2) shall not apply in relation to horses. Feeding and watering, travelling times and rest periods
(2) In the case of cattle, sheep, pigs, goats and horses (except registered horses), the transporter shall ensure that they are rested, and offered liquid and food during a journey at least in accordance with Schedule 7. (3) In the case of poultry and domestic birds
and domestic rabbits, the transporter shall ensure that during a journey
suitable food and liquid is available, in suitable quantities and at suitable
intervals, save in the case of -
(b) a journey lasting less than 24 hours for chicks of all species,
provided that it is completed within 72 hours after hatching.
(5) In the case of other mammals and birds, the transporter shall ensure that they are suitably fed and watered at appropriate intervals during a journey, and that clear written instructions about feeding and watering and any special care required accompany the animals and that the instructions are complied with. (6) Nothing in this article or Schedule 7 shall require the unloading of any animal which normally lives on its means of transport. (7) In this article, in relation to the transport of registered horses, it shall be for the transporter to prove that the animals being transported are registered. Accompaniment of vertebrate animals by competent persons
(b) equivalent practical experience,
(2) Paragraphs (3) to (5) below shall only apply in relation to a journey beginning after 1st July 1998 which involves the transport of cattle, sheep, pigs, goats or horses, either by road vehicle for a journey lasting 8 hours or more, or by another means of transport irrespective of the length of the journey. (3) In the case of a person who has specific training, that person shall have a qualification relating to the welfare of animals during transport approved by the Minister. (4) In the case of a person who has practical experience equivalent to specific training, that person shall have been assessed, using a method approved by the Minister, to ensure that that person has the necessary ability, competence and knowledge qualifying him to handle and transport and, if necessary, administer appropriate care to the animals being transported, and the result of that assessment recorded in writing and a copy given to the person who has been assessed. (5) The transporter shall keep a copy of the record of the assessment carried out under the preceding paragraph throughout the time that the person is engaged by him on journeys accompanying animals, and for a period of 6 months thereafter and shall produce it on demand to an inspector. (6) In the case of a transporter authorised in another member State, it shall be sufficient that the person accompanying the animals has satisfied the requirements on competence of that member State. Duties on transporters
(2) In the case of animals transported in a receptacle, any person in charge of the animals shall ensure that they are not caused injury or unnecessary suffering while they are in the receptacle either waiting to be loaded on to the means of transport or after they have been unloaded. IATA and CITES
(2) No person shall transport an animal to which the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species[8] refers except in compliance with the CITES guidelines for transport and preparation for shipment of live wild animals or in compliance with the standards set by the International Air Transport Association. Authorisations and registration
(b) in the case of a transporter established in Northern Ireland, the Isle of Man or the Channel Islands, an authorisation to transport animals granted by the appropriate competent authority; (c) in the case of a transporter established in another member State, an equivalent authorisation to transport animals granted by the competent authority of the member State of establishment for the purposes of implementing Council Directive 91/628/EEC; or (d) in the case of a transporter established in a third country,
an authorisation to transport animals granted by the competent authority
of a member State of the European Union for the purposes of implementing
Council Directive 91/628/EEC.
(b) may be general or, after 1st October 1997, specific; and (c) may be made subject to conditions.
(4) In the case of a transporter authorised outside the United Kingdom, if the Minister is satisfied that serious or repeated infringements have taken place against this Order or any other legislation implementing Council Directive 91/628/EEC in the United Kingdom, provided that all the possibilities afforded by mutual recognition referred to in that directive have been exhausted and after contacts between the parties and the Commission, the Minister may, by notice in writing served on the transporter, temporarily prohibit the transporter from transporting vertebrate animals in Great Britain. (5) Any person requiring a specific authorisation under this Order shall register as a transporter with the Minister. Route plans
(2) If there is more than one transporter for a journey, the provisions of this article shall be complied with by the person consigning the animals for the whole period of the journey. (3) A transporter who intends to transport animals on a journey to which this article applies shall draw up on paper and sign a route plan which is in a form approved by the Minister containing the information set out in Schedule 11 and which covers the whole period of the journey. (4) The transporter shall submit the signed route plan with his application for an export health certificate to the person appointed by the Minister to receive such documents for the area in which the journey will begin. (5) If he is satisfied that the proposed journey is in compliance with the provisions of this Order, the person appointed by the Minister shall mark on the route plan the number or numbers of the export health certificates of the animals, stamp the route plan and ensure that it is returned to the transporter with the signed health certificate. (6) No person shall transport animals on a journey to which this article applies unless he has received from the person appointed by the Minister a duly stamped route plan which relates to those animals and that journey. (7) The transporter shall ensure that the original copy of the route plan is attached to the export health certificate and accompanies the consignment throughout the journey. (8) The transporter shall ensure that, where the
journey exceeds the time limits set out in Schedule 7, the transport of
the animals is not begun unless -
(b) steps have been taken to meet the animals' need for food and
liquid during the journey, including contingency plans for when the route
plan is changed or where the journey is interrupted for reasons beyond
his control.
(10) Both the transporter of the animals and the person in charge of the animals during the journey shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that the route plan is complied with. (11) When the journey is completed, the person
who signed the route plan when it was originally submitted shall either
-
(b) if it was not complied with, shall describe on the route plan
the actual journey, together with the reasons for the route plan not being
complied with, and
(12) The transporter shall keep a second copy of the route plan for a period of 6 months from completion of the journey, and shall produce it on demand at the request of an inspector and allow copies to be taken. (13) In the case of exports direct to third countries
from Great Britain, where the journey time within the European Union exceeds
8 hours, or where the animals are being exported to third countries by
sea and the total travelling time exceeds 8 hours, the transporter -
(b) within 15 days of the completion of the journey, sends back the
route plan to the person referred to in paragraph (4) above.
(15) In this article, in relation to the transport of registered horses, it shall be for the transporter to prove if required by an inspector that the animals being transported are registered. Animal Transport Certificate
(b) the name and address of the owner of the animals; (c) the place that the animals were loaded, and their final destination; (d) the date and time the first animal was loaded; (e) the date and time of departure; and (f) the time and place the requirements for resting periods laid
down in Schedule 7 were met.
(b) the entire journey is on land occupied by the owner of the poultry
and domestic birds.
(4) The transporter shall keep a copy of the documentation for a period of 6 months from the completion of the journey, and shall produce it to an inspector on demand and allow copies to be taken. (5) Where a copy of the documentation required
to be kept in accordance with paragraph (4) above is kept in an electronic
or magnetic form, references in that paragraph -
(b) to allowing copies to be taken, shall be references to the taking
thereof in a written form.
15. - (1) Where cattle, sheep, pigs, goats or horses are transported for a distance of 50 km or less, to, from or within land used for agricultural purposes in a vehicle owned by the owner or occupier of that land and the vehicle has an internal length of not more than 3.7 m available for the carriage of animals, then the following provisions shall not apply -
(ii) paragraph 4 of Part I of Schedule 2 (overhead protection); (iii) paragraph 5 of Part I of Schedule 2 (provision of barriers or straps); (iv) paragraph 11 of Part II of Schedule 2 (internal ramps and lifting gear); and (v) paragraph 6 of Part I of Schedule 1 to the Transit of Animals
(Road and Rail) Order 1975[9].
Third countries
(2) No person shall transport vertebrate animals from Great Britain to a destination outside the European Union unless the person in charge of the transport undertaking has first signed and dated an undertaking in the form set out in Schedule 10 (which, after it has been made, shall remain valid for all such journeys). Enforcement
(2) The appropriate Minister may direct, in relation to cases of a particular description or a particular case, that this Order shall be executed and enforced by him and not by the local authority. Powers of an inspector
(2) Without prejudice to the generality of paragraph
(1) above, an inspector may in particular -
(b) specify conditions under which the animals may be transported; (c) require the journey to be completed or the animals to be returned to their place of departure by the most direct route, provided that this course of action would not cause unnecessary suffering to the animals; (d) require the animals to be held in suitable accommodation with appropriate care until the problem is solved; or (e) require the humane slaughter of the animals.
(4) If any person fails to comply with the requirements of a notice served under this article, the inspector shall have powers to carry out those requirements himself, or cause them to be carried out, and the transporter shall be liable for the cost of such action. (5) In deciding whether or not to serve a notice under this article, an inspector appointed by the Minister may take into account any previous failure to comply with any provision of this Order or of any other Order made under section 37, 38 or 39 of the Animal Health Act 1981 and in particular any failure to submit a completed and correct route plan at the end of any previous journey. Production of plans
(b) subject to paragraph (2), provide such information concerning
the vessel as the officer considers necessary to enable him to ascertain
whether the provisions of this Order will be complied with during the proposed
journey.
Offences by bodies corporate
(b) any person who was purporting to act in any such capacity,
(2) For the purposes of paragraph (1) above, "director" in relation to a body corporate whose affairs are managed by its members, means a member of the body corporate. (3) Where an offence under this Order is committed in Scotland by a Scottish partnership and is proved to have been committed with the consent or connivance of, or to be attributable to any neglect on the part of, a partner, he as well as the partnership shall be guilty of the offence and be liable to be proceeded against and punished accordingly. Offences
(b) provides false information on any route plan (whether when submitted for approval, returned to the officer of the Minister after the journey or otherwise) or provides false information on any documentation carried pursuant to article 14; (c) makes any entry in a record or statement, or gives any information for the purposes of this Order which he knows to be false in any material particular or, for those purposes, recklessly makes a statement or gives any information which is false in any material particular; or (d) causes or permits any of the above,
Revocations and disapplication
Elliot Morley
10th June 1997
Sewel
3rd June 1997
Signed by authority of the Secretary of State for Wales
Win Griffiths
9th June 1997
SCHEDULE 1 PART I GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE OF MEANS OF TRANSPORT AND RECEPTACLES FOR ALL MAMMALS AND BIRDS Avoidance of injury and suffering
Substantial construction
Size
Floors
(b) constructed, maintained and operated to prevent slipping; and (c) free of any protrusions, spaces or perforations which are likely
to cause injury to animals.
5. Means of transport and receptacles shall be constructed, maintained and operated so as to protect animals against inclement weather, adverse sea conditions, marked fluctuations in air pressure, excessive humidity, heat or cold. Projections and sharp edges
Cleanliness
Escape-proof
Noise and vibration
Lighting
(2) Passageways, ramps and other loading equipment shall be provided with adequate natural or artificial lighting to enable the animals to be loaded or unloaded safely. (3) Artificial lighting required by this paragraph may be provided using a portable light. Use of partitions
(b) to prevent animals being thrown about during transport.
(b) being thrown about during transport.
12. Partitions shall be -
(b) strong enough to withstand the weight of any animal which may be thrown against them; and (c) constructed and positioned so that they do not interfere with
ventilation.
13. Any rail wagon used in the transport of animals shall be marked with a symbol indicating the presence of live animals.
14. Any rail wagon in which animals are carried
shall be -
(b) capable of travelling at high speed; and (c) provided with sufficiently large air vents or a ventilation system
which is effective even at low speeds.
Special provisions for transport by water or air
(b) where necessary, be secured to protect them against injury from
the motion of the vessel or aircraft.
17. There shall be adequate passageways on a vessel providing access to all pens, receptacles, vehicles or rail wagons in which animals are accommodated. 18. All parts of a vessel in which animals are accommodated shall be provided with adequate drainage and shall be kept in a sanitary condition. 19. - (1) Enclosed decks of a vessel in which animals are transported (whether in vehicles or otherwise) shall be provided with an adequate means of mechanical ventilation. (2) Vehicles in which animals are being transported in an enclosed deck shall, where possible, be placed near a fresh air inlet. (3) Where animals are transported in rail wagons on board vessels, adequate ventilation shall be provided for animals throughout the voyage. 20. Where animals are transported by water, there shall be provisions for isolation of ill or injured animals during the voyage and for first aid treatment to be given, when necessary.
21. Where animals are transported in vehicles
on board vessels -
(b) the vehicle and the animals' compartment shall be equipped with tying facilities enabling them to be adequately secured to the vessel; (c) the animals' compartment shall have a sufficient number of vents or other means of ensuring that it is adequately ventilated bearing in mind that the air flow is restricted in the confined space of the vessel's vehicle deck; (d) there shall be sufficient room inside the animals' compartment (at each of its levels) to ensure that there is adequate ventilation and sufficient air space to allow the air to circulate properly; and (e) direct access shall be provided to each part of the animals'
compartment so that the animals can, if necessary, be cared for, fed and
watered during the voyage.
PART II GENERAL PROVISIONS FOR THE TRANSPORT OF ALL MAMMALS AND BIRDS Jolting
Loading and unloading
(b) contact with any part of the means of transport or receptacle
or with any other obstruction.
24. Unless an animal can be loaded and unloaded in accordance with the provisions of paragraph 10(6) or (7) of Part II of Schedule 2 below, a vehicle shall, at all times, carry the means to enable animals to be unloaded without causing them injury or unnecessary suffering at a place where there is no other unloading equipment. Segregation of animals and goods
(2) A carcase shall not be carried in the same road vehicle, receptacle, rail wagon or pen as an animal, other than the carcase of an animal which dies in the course of a journey. Cleaning and disinfection
(2) Dead animals, soiled litter and droppings shall be removed from means of transport or receptacles as soon as possible. Litter
Labelling of receptacles
(b) be marked with a sign indicating the receptacle's upright position; and (c) be kept in an upright position.
29. Receptacles shall be secured so as to prevent their displacement during transport. Humane slaughter on vessels and aircraft
Attendants
(2) At least one attendant shall accompany the
animals except in the following cases -
(b) where the transporter performs the function of attendant; or (c) where the consignor has appointed an agent to care for the animals
at appropriate stopping or transfer points.
SCHEDULE 2 PART I ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE OF MEANS OF TRANSPORT AND RECEPTACLES FOR CATTLE, SHEEP, PIGS, GOATS AND HORSES Size and height
Ventilation
Inspection of interior of receptacles
(2) Without prejudice to the generality of paragraph
(1) above, receptacles carrying animals in an aircraft -
(b) in the main deck compartment, shall be constructed, maintained
and positioned so as to provide access to every animal throughout the journey.
4. Vehicles shall be equipped with a roof which ensures effective protection against the weather. 5. Vehicles shall be equipped, on each floor on which animals are carried (other than in receptacles), with barriers, or, in the case of a vehicle exclusively used for the transport of horses, with straps, so constructed and maintained as to prevent any animal from falling out of the vehicle when any door used for loading and unloading is not fully closed.
6. - (1) Every ramp which is carried on
or forms part of a vehicle shall be constructed, maintained and operated
-
(b) so that it is not too steep for the age and species of the animal being transported; (c) so that any step at the top or bottom of the ramp is not too high for the age and species of the animal being transported; and (d) so that any gap between the top of the ramp and the vehicle or
at the bottom of the ramp is not too wide for the age and species of the
animal being transported.
7. Vehicles (other than vehicles in which animals are being carried in receptacles) shall be constructed so that all the animals inside can be inspected from the outside, and for this purpose shall be provided with suitably arranged openings and footholds. 8. In the case of animals which are normally required to be tied, suitable provision shall be made so that animals may be tied to the interior of the vehicle. Approval of receptacles and pens on vessels
(2) The Minister shall not grant an approval under
this paragraph unless he is satisfied that, having regard to the weather
and sea conditions likely to be encountered during the voyage, the receptacle
or pen provides adequate protection against the sea and weather.
PART II ADDITIONAL PROVISIONS FOR THE TRANSPORT OF CATTLE, SHEEP, PIGS, GOATS AND HORSES Loading equipment
(2) Save as provided in sub-paragraphs (6) and (7) below they shall be loaded and unloaded using suitable ramps, bridges, gangways or mechanical lifting gear, operated so as to prevent injury or unnecessary suffering to any animal. (3) The flooring of any loading equipment shall be constructed so as to prevent slipping. (4) Subject to sub-paragraph (6) below, ramps,
bridges, gangways and loading platforms shall be provided on each side
with protection which is -
(b) positioned so that it will not result in injury or unnecessary
suffering to any animal.
(b) loading and unloading is only effected by leading each horse
into or out of the vehicle.
(7) An animal may be loaded or unloaded without equipment or by manual lifting or carrying provided that, having regard to the age, height and species of the animal, it is unlikely to be caused injury or unnecessary suffering by being loaded or unloaded in this manner. Internal ramps and means of lifting
(2) Save as provided in sub-paragraph (4) below, suitable ramps or mechanical lifting gear shall be used and operated so as to prevent injury or unnecessary suffering to any animal. (3) Where a ramp or mechanical lifting gear is
used it shall be -
(b) positioned so that it will not result in injury or unnecessary suffering to any animal; and (c) of a gradient which is suitable to the age and species of the
animals concerned.
Tying
(b) designed in such a way as to eliminate any danger of strangulation or injury, and (c) long enough to allow the animals, if necessary, to lie down and
to eat and drink.
Segregation of animals
(b) a sow accompanied by unweaned piglets; (c) a mare with a foal at foot; (d) a bull over 10 months of age; (e) a breeding boar over 6 months of age; or (f) a stallion.
(3) Save as provided in sub-paragraph (4), animals shall be segregated according to species. (4) Animals of any species may be carried in the same undivided vehicle, rail wagon, pen or receptacle as their companion animals if separation would cause either of the animals distress. (5) No unsecured animal shall be carried in the
same undivided vehicle, rail wagon, pen or receptacle as any animal which
is secured other than -
(b) a horse registered under the Rules of Racing accompanied by an
animal which is its companion.
(7) Measures shall be taken to avoid injury or unnecessary suffering to any animal as a result of the carriage in the same vehicle, rail wagon, pen or receptacle of animals which are hostile to each other or are fractious. (8) Measures shall be taken to avoid any animal being caused injury or unnecessary suffering by an animal which becomes fractious during the journey. (9) Uncastrated male adults shall be segregated from females unless they have been raised in compatible groups or are accustomed to one another. (10) Horned cattle shall be segregated from unhorned cattle unless they are all secured. (11) Broken horses shall be segregated from unbroken horses. (12) Segregation of animals in rail wagons may be effected either by means of suitable partitions or, if space permits, by tying them in separate parts of the rail wagon. Restrictions on lifting, dragging and use of force on animals
(2) No person shall use excessive force to control animals. (3) Subject to sub-paragraph (4) below, no person
shall use -
(b) any stick, goad or other instrument or thing to hit or prod any cattle of six months or under; or (c) any stick (other than a flat slap stick or a slap marker), non-electric
goad or other instrument or thing to hit or prod any pigs.
(5) Nothing in this provision shall prevent the suspension by mechanical means of a receptacle in which an animal is being carried. Duties of attendants
(2) Animals in milk shall be milked at appropriate intervals and, in the case of cows in milk, that interval shall be about 12 hours but shall not exceed 15 hours. Special provisions for horses
(b) have their hind feet unshod.
19. Where they are transported in rail wagons and are not in individual stalls, horses shall be tied in such a way that they are all facing the same side of the rail wagon or each other. Foals and unbroken animals shall not be tied. 20. When transported by water each horse shall be carried in a stall or receptacle without any other animal, except that small ponies, small asses, small mules and unbroken horses may be carried in groups and a mare may be carried with her foal at foot. 21. When transported by water in individual stalls, horses shall be carried athwartships unless the horses are in a vehicle which is on a vessel which has effective stabilisers in operation. Special provisions for transport by rail
Special provisions for transport by water
SCHEDULE 3 PART I ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE OF MEANS OF TRANSPORT AND RECEPTACLES OF POULTRY AND DOMESTIC BIRDS AND DOMESTIC RABBITS Ventilation
Special provisions for receptacles
3. Receptacles in which animals are carried shall be of such a size as to protect the animals from injury or unnecessary suffering during transport. 4. Receptacles in which birds are transported shall be constructed and maintained so that they prevent any protrusion of the heads, legs or wings from them.
5. Birds shall not be carried in a sack or bag.
PART II ADDITIONAL PROVISIONS FOR THE TRANSPORT OF POULTRY AND DOMESTIC BIRDS AND DOMESTIC RABBITS Lifting of birds
(b) geese, which may be lifted or carried by the base of both wings.
7. Birds shall not be tied by the neck, leg or wing. Segregation of rabbits
Segregation of birds
(b) male and female chicks may be transported together; and (c) male and female birds which are familiar with one another may
travel together.
(3) Birds shall not be transported in proximity to any animal which is likely to be hostile to them or the presence of which is likely to cause them unnecessary suffering.
10. In this Schedule "birds" means poultry and
domestic birds.
SCHEDULE 4 PART I ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE OF MEANS OF TRANSPORT AND RECEPTACLES FOR DOMESTIC DOGS AND DOMESTIC CATS Ventilation
Special provision for receptacles
Size and height
Special provisions for road vehicles
5. In the case of animals which are normally
required to be tied, suitable provision shall be made so that animals may
be tied to the interior of the vehicle.
PART II ADDITIONAL PROVISIONS FOR THE TRANSPORT OF DOMESTIC DOGS AND DOMESTIC CATS Segregation of species
(2) Female animals in oestrus shall be separated from male animals. (3) No animal shall be carried with another animal if, having regard to the difference in age and size between those animals, unnecessary suffering is likely to be caused to one or both of those animals. (4) Measures shall be taken to avoid injury or unnecessary suffering to any animal as a result of the carriage in the same undivided pen, receptacle, vehicle or rail wagon of animals which are hostile to each other. (5) Measures shall be taken to avoid any animal being caused injury or unnecessary suffering by an animal which becomes fractious during the journey. (6) Segregation of animals in rail wagons may be effected either by means of suitable partitions or, if space permits, by tying them in separate parts of the rail wagon. Duties of attendants
Special provisions for transport by water
SCHEDULE 5 PART I ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE OF MEANS OF TRANSPORT AND RECEPTACLES OF MAMMALS AND BIRDS NOT COVERED BY SCHEDULES 2, 3 AND 4 Ventilation
Size and height
Special provision for receptacles
Special provisions for road vehicles
5. Vehicles shall be equipped, on each floor on which animals (other than marine mammals) are carried (other than in receptacles), with barriers so constructed and maintained as to prevent any animal from falling out of the vehicle when any door used for loading and unloading is not fully closed.
6. - (1) Every ramp which is carried on
or forms part of a vehicle shall be constructed, maintained and operated
-
(b) so that it is not too steep for the age and species of the animal being transported; (c) so that any step at the top or bottom of the ramp is not too high for the age and species of the animal being transported; and (d) so that any gap between the top of the ramp and the vehicle or
at the bottom of the ramp is not too wide for the age and species of the
animal being transported.
7. In the case of the animals which are normally
required to be tied, suitable provision shall be made so that animals may
be tied to the interior of the vehicle.
PART II ADDITIONAL PROVISIONS FOR THE TRANSPORT OF MAMMALS AND BIRDS NOT COVERED BY SCHEDULES 2, 3 AND 4 Loading equipment
(2) Save as provided in sub-paragraphs (5) and (6) below they shall be loaded and unloaded using suitable ramps, bridges, gangways or mechanical lifting gear, operated so as to prevent injury or unnecessary suffering to any animal. (3) The flooring of any loading equipment shall be constructed so as to prevent slipping. (4) Ramps, bridges, gangways and loading platforms
shall be provided on each side with protection which is -
(b) positioned so that it will not result in injury or unnecessary
suffering to any animal.
(6) An animal may be loaded or unloaded without equipment or by manual lifting or carrying provided that, having regard to the age, height and species of the animal, it is unlikely to be caused injury or unnecessary suffering by being loaded or unloaded in this manner. Movement from floor to floor
(2) Save as provided in sub-paragraph (4) below, suitable ramps or mechanical lifting gear shall be used and operated so as to prevent injury or unnecessary suffering to any animal. (3) Where a ramp or mechanical lifting gear is
used it shall be -
(b) positioned so that it will not result in injury or unnecessary suffering to any animal; and (c) of a gradient which is suitable to the age and species of the
animals concerned.
Segregation of species
Duties of attendants
Notice describing animal
Special provisions for transport by water
Sedation
Conditioning of animals
Birds in semi-darkness
Stacking of receptacles for marine mammals
SCHEDULE 6 OTHER VERTEBRATE ANIMALS AND COLD-BLOODED ANIMALS
Other vertebrate animals and cold-blooded animals shall be transported
in such receptacles or means of transport, under such conditions (in particular
with regard to space, ventilation, temperature and security) and with such
supply of liquid and oxygen as are appropriate for the species concerned.
SCHEDULE 7 PART I WATERING AND FEEDING INTERVALS, JOURNEY TIMES AND RESTING PERIODS FOR CATTLE, SHEEP, PIGS, GOATS AND FOR HORSES (EXCEPT REGISTERED HORSES) 1. Subject to the provisions of this Schedule, journey times shall not exceed 8 hours.
2. The maximum journey time in paragraph 1 may
be extended where the transporting vehicle meets the following additional
requirements:
(b) the transporting vehicle carries appropriate feed for the animal species transported and for the journey time, (c) there is direct access to the animals, (d) there is adequate ventilation which may be adjusted depending on the temperature (inside and outside), (e) there are movable panels for creating separate compartments, (f) vehicles are equipped for connection to a water supply during stops, and (g) in the case of vehicles for transporting pigs, sufficient liquid
is carried for drinking during the journey.
(b) pigs may be transported for a maximum period of 24 hours. During the journey, they must have continuous access to liquid; (c) horses may be transported for a maximum period of 24 hours. During the journey they must be given liquid and if necessary fed every 8 hours; and (d) all other cattle, sheep and goats to which this Schedule applies
must, after 14 hours of travel, be given a rest period of at least one
hour sufficient for them in particular to be given liquid and, if necessary,
fed. After this rest period, they may be transported for a further 14 hours.
5. Animals must not be transported by train if the maximum journey time exceeds 8 hours. However, the journey times laid down in paragraph 3 shall apply where the conditions laid down in paragraphs 2 and 3, except for rest periods, are met. 6. - (1) Animals must not be transported by sea if the maximum journey time exceeds that laid down in paragraph 1, unless the conditions laid down in paragraphs 2 and 3, apart from journey times and rest periods, are met. (2) In the case of transport by sea on a regular and direct link between two geographical points of the Community by means of vehicles loaded on to vessels without unloading of the animals, the latter must be rested for 12 hours after unloading at the port of destination or in its immediate vicinity unless the journey time at sea is such that the voyage can be included in the general scheme of paragraphs 1 to 3.
7. In the interests of the animals, the journey
times in paragraphs 3 and 6(2) may be extended by 2 hours, taking account
in particular of proximity to the place of destination.
PART II ADDITIONAL PROVISIONS RELATING TO THE TRANSPORT OF ANIMALS THROUGH A MARKET WHERE DOCUMENTATION IS UNAVAILABLE FOR THE WHOLE PERIOD OF THE JOURNEY 8. The provisions in this Part shall apply where a journey involves passing through a market, and the documentation is unavailable to a person transporting animals from that market to establish the time the animals left the point where the journey to that market began. 9. If a person transports from a market animals which he did not take to that market, the documents required under article 14 shall show the market as the beginning of the journey for the purposes of recording the place, date and time of loading. 10. If a journey to market was not more than 4 hours, no person shall transport animals from that market for more than 4 hours except in accordance with the following provisions of this Part. 11. The animals to be transported shall have been at market for a period of at least one hour sufficient in particular for them to be given liquid and, if necessary, fed. 12. The journey from the market shall be in a vehicle complying with paragraph 2 of Part I of this Schedule. 13. Unweaned calves, lambs, kids and foals which are still on a milk diet and unweaned piglets may be transported for 9 hours from a market if the journey to market was not more than 4 hours (or 9 hours if it was in a vehicle complying with paragraph 2 of Part I of this Schedule). 14. Pigs or horses may be transported for 8 hours from a market if the journey to market was not more than 4 hours (or 8 hours if it was in a vehicle complying with paragraph 2 of Part I of this Schedule). 15. All other cattle, sheep and goats to which this Schedule applies may be transported for 14 hours from a market if the journey to market was not more than 4 hours (or 14 hours if it was in a vehicle complying with paragraph 2 of Part I of this Schedule).
16. It shall be a defence for a transporter transporting
animals from a market to show that he took all reasonable steps to establish
that the conditions in paragraphs 9 to 15 of this Schedule relating to
the transport of animals to the market were satisfied.
SCHEDULE 8 FRAMEWORK OF COMPETENCES
1. Knowledge of which people are responsible for the welfare of animals during transport. 2. Understanding of when to seek veterinary help and knowledge of which body or organisation to contact with general questions, for example, about transport conditions; matters of law or documentation. 3. Knowledge of the powers of enforcement authorities to inspect animals, documentation and vehicles before, during and after the journey. 4. Basic knowledge of the authorisation requirements for transporters and when such authorisation is necessary. 5. Knowledge of how to plan a journey (taking into account such factors as maximum travelling times, required rest periods, and the time taken to load and unload). Ability to anticipate changing conditions and make contingencies for unforseen circumstances. 6. Understanding of when a route plan or documentation are required and how to complete these documents. 7. Knowledge of vehicle construction and use requirements in current welfare legislation. 8. Ability to load, operate and control a vehicle safely, efficiently and effectively so as to ensure the welfare of the animals. 9. Knowledge of the appropriate methods of handling animals during loading and unloading, including the use of visual fields and flight zones, lighting and the appropriate use of such things as sticks, boards, blindfolds and electric goads. Knowledge of handling methods which are prohibited. 10. Knowledge of the specific requirements of the Order relating to different species for rest, feed and liquid. 11. Knowledge of stocking densities (effects of overcrowding and understocking) and headroom and segregation requirements, taking into account species being transported, method of transport, gender, condition, age, length of journey and ambient conditions. 12. Understanding of the importance for animal welfare of temperature, both inside and outside the vehicle, including the effect on different species and the need for adjustment of ventilation. 13. Ability to clean and disinfect vehicles and knowledge of when it is necessary to do so before and after the journey. 14. Elementary knowledge of the causes of stress in animals; ability to recognise the signs of stress and ill-health, and basic knowledge of how to reduce the symptoms.
15. Ability to care for animals which become
unfit or injured during transport, including an understanding of when to
seek veterinary advice. Knowledge of the limited circumstances when it
is permissible to transport unfit animals for veterinary treatment or slaughter.
SCHEDULE 9 PROVISIONS RELATING TO AUTHORISATIONS
Specific and general authorisations
(b) a general authorisation, that is, an authorisation issued by
the Minister which does not name individual transporters and which covers
such transporters resident in Great Britain (or, in the case of a body
corporate, incorporated in Great Britain) and such activities as are described
in the authorisation.
(3) A specific authorisation may be amended or revoked by the Minister by notice in writing served on the transporter to whom the authorisation was granted. (4) A general authorisation may be amended or revoked by publication in such manner as the Minister shall see fit. (5) In the case of a general authorisation the Minister may, by notice in writing served on a transporter, either exclude that transporter from the operation of a general authorisation, or impose additional conditions on that transporter which differ from the conditions in the general authorisation. (6) A specific authorisation shall not be issued to more than one transporter. (7) The fact that a transporter is covered by a general authorisation in respect of certain activities does not prevent a specific authorisation being issued to him in respect of those activities. (8) If a transporter has been issued with a specific authorisation, he shall cease to be covered by any aspect of the general authorisation in relation to the animals covered by the specific authorisation, and he shall not be permitted to carry out any transport of those animals except under the authority of a specific authorisation; and if a specific authorisation is revoked, or limited in any way, then the transporter who held the authorisation shall not be entitled to transport the animals covered by that specific authorisation under the authority of the general authorisation. (9) Notice shall be given of the issue of any general authorisation in such form as the Minister shall see fit. Authorisation holder to be a fit person
(2) In determining whether a transporter applying
for a specific authorisation is a fit person to transport animals, the
Minister shall have regard to any circumstances appearing to him to be
relevant, and in particular any evidence tending to show that the applicant,
or any of the applicant's employees, agents or associates (whether past
or present) or, where the applicant is a body corporate, any person appearing
to the Minister to be a controller of the body corporate or an associate
of any such person, has -
(b) contravened any provision of this Order or any other Order made under section 37, 38 or 39 of the Animal Health Act 1981; or (c) previously been responsible for anything which would cause the
Minister to revoke or suspend an authorisation under the provisions of
the following paragraph.
(4) A holder of a specific authorisation who intends to transport vertebrate animals under a trading name different from that specified in the authorisation shall notify the Minister of the name before he transports any animals under that name. Suspension and revocation
(b) in the case of a journey taking place partly in Great Britain
and partly outside Great Britain -
(ii) repeated infringements of national legislation implementing
Council Directive 91/628/EEC, or a single such infringement involving serious
suffering to animals,
Written representations
(2) On issuing a specific authorisation to a person the Minister shall notify him of the effect of subsection (1) above. (3) If the Minister refuses an application for a specific authorisation, the Minister shall give the applicant notice in writing of the reasons for the refusal. (4) If the Minister, by notice in writing served on a transporter, amends, suspends or revokes a specific authorisation, the notice shall give the transporter reasons for the amendment, suspension or revocation. (5) If the Minister, by notice in writing served on a transporter, either excludes that transporter from the operation of a general authorisation or imposes additional conditions on that transporter, the notice shall give the transporter reasons for the exclusion or the imposition of additional conditions. (6) If within 28 days of receipt of a notice under this paragraph giving the Minister's reasons the transporter makes written representations to the Minister concerning the matter to which the notice is related, the Minister shall refer the transporter's representations to an appointed person. (7) A notice under this paragraph giving the Minister's reasons shall notify the transporter of the effect of subsection (6) above. Appointed persons
(2) The appointed person shall serve on the person who made the representations a notice requiring him to state within 14 days of receipt of the notice whether he wishes to make written or oral representations to the appointed person at a hearing. (3) The notice shall specify the place, date and time of the hearing and the date of the hearing shall not be earlier than 14 days from the date of the notice, unless the person who makes the representations has agreed to an earlier hearing. (4) The appointed person shall permit the Minister or the transporter to make written or oral representations at the hearing either in person or through a representative. (5) The appointed person may permit any other person to make written or oral representations to him at the hearing. (6) The appointed person shall consider -
(b) any representations made under this Schedule
(7) The Minister shall notify the transporter of the result of his reconsideration and the reasons for it and shall send him a copy of the appointed person's report. Interpretation
7. - (1) Within 21 working days after -
(b) a body corporate which holds such an authorisation becomes aware
that a person has become or ceased to be a controller of the body corporate,
(2) Where the Minister is given notice under sub-paragraph (1) of any change the Minister may by notice require the holder of the authorisation to furnish him with such information, verified in such manner, as the Minister may stipulate. (3) The holder of a specific authorisation shall
notify the Minister within 21 days of any change of address of the transporter.
SCHEDULE 10 FORM OF UNDERTAKING
I declare that, in transporting vertebrate animals from Great Britain to a destination outside the European Union, I shall take all the measures necessary to comply with the requirements of Council Directive 91/628/EEC as amended up to the place of destination. In addition I hereby undertake to ensure that any staff to whom I entrust the transport of live animals are competent to do so, and are acquainted with the provisions specified in Schedule 8 of the Welfare of Animals (Transport) Order 1997. Signed Name in block letters Position in the transport company Date
SCHEDULE 11 INFORMATION TO BE PROVIDED ON THE ROUTE PLAN
SECTION 1 - INFORMATION TO BE COMPLETED BEFORE THE JOURNEY 1. Name, full address, business name, telephone number and fax number of the transporter. 2. Number and species of animals to be transported. 3. Health certificate number(s). 4. Number of the transporter's authorisation (if any). 5. Registration number of the vehicles to be used, and the trailers if different. 6. Name of the person(s) in charge of the transport during the journey. 7. Place where the animals are to be first loaded, and full address. 8. Planned date and time of departure. 9. Full itemised itinerary of the journey. 10. Full address of the final destination. 11. Estimated date and time of arrival at the final destination (local time). SECTION 2 - INFORMATION TO BE COMPLETED DURING THE JOURNEY 12. Actual date and time of loading the first animal. 13. Actual time of departure from the place of loading. 14. Full itemised itinerary of the journey.
15. Actual date and time of arrival at the final
destination (local time).
SCHEDULE 12 REVOCATIONS AND DISAPPLICATION
PART I DISAPPLICATION The provisions of the Export of Animals (Protection) Order 1981[11]
shall not apply to the export of animals to another member State of the
European Union.
PART II ORDERS REVOKED IN FULL The following orders are hereby revoked in full:
(b) The Animals (Sea Transport) Order, 1930 (S.R. & O. 1930/923) (c) The Animals (Sea Transport) (Amendment) Order, 1932 (S.I. 1932/4984) (d) The Transit of Animals (Amendment) Order, 1939 (S.I. 1939/5842) (e) The Horses (Sea Transport) (Amendment) Order, 1958 (S.I. 1958/1272) (f) The Transit of Animals (General) Order, 1973 (S.I. 1973/1377) (g) The Transit of Animals (Road and Rail) (Amendment) Order, 1979 (S.I. 1979/1013) (h) The Transit of Animals (Amendment) Order, 1988 (S.I. 1988/815) (i) The Welfare of Poultry (Transport) Order, 1988 (S.I. 1988/851) (j) The Welfare of Poultry (Transport) (Amendment) Order, 1989 (S.I. 1989/52) (k) The Welfare of Animals during Transport Order, 1994 (S.I. 1994/3249) (l) The Welfare of Animals during Transport (Amendment) Order, 1995
(S.I. 1995/131)
PART III ORDERS REVOKED IN PART The following Orders are hereby revoked in part:
(This Note is not part of the Order)
This Order revokes and re-enacts with modifications the Welfare of Animals during Transport Order, 1994, as amended, and other animal welfare legislation, which together with that Order implemented Council Directive 91/628/EEC on the protection of animals during transport (OJ No. L340, 11.12.91, p.17). This Order implements that Directive as amended by Council Directive 95/29/EEC (OJ No. L18, 30.6.95, p.52). The extent of its application is set out (article 2). The Order makes general provision for the welfare of animals in transport. It includes provisions as to the means of transport or receptacles used (article 4), the amount of space available to each animal (article 5) and the fitness of animals to travel (article 6). It requires animals that fall ill or are injured in the course of transport to be treated (article 7). The Order contains requirements on the feeding and watering of animals before and during a journey and on journey times and rest periods (article 8). It requires persons who transport animals in the course of business to ensure that animals are accompanied by a person possessing appropriate knowledge and the ability to safeguard their welfare (article 9). Further duties on transporters are set out (article 10). The Order requires compliance with the guidelines issued under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species ("CITES") and the standards set by the International Air Transport Association ("IATA") (article 11). The Order makes provision for the authorisation of transporters to transport vertebrate animals on journeys over 50 kilometres (article 12). It requires route plans for certain journeys and other documentation where no route plan is required (articles 13 and 14). The Order excepts certain journeys from certain of its provisions (article 15). It contains requirements relating to the transport of animals to and from third countries (article 16). The Order is enforced by local authorities (article 17). Inspectors are given powers to require compliance with the Order, including the power to stop a journey. Ministry inspectors may take into account a previous failure to comply with the Order, including a failure to submit a route plan, in exercising these powers (article 18). Owners or charterers of vessels used to transport animals are required to produce information on demand to an officer of the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, which may include a plan of the vessel (article 19). A contravention of any provision of the Order constitutes an offence against the Animal Health Act 1981 punishable in accordance with section 75 of the Act (article 21). A Compliance Cost Assessment has been prepared and placed in the library of each House of Parliament. Copies can be obtained from the Animal Welfare Division of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Government Buildings, Hook Rise South, Tolworth, Surbiton, Surrey KT6 7NF.
Notes: [1] 1981 c.22. See section 86(1) for a definition of "the Minister", "the appropriate Minister" and "the Ministers". back [2] 1990 c.35. back [3] OJ No. L121, 29.7.64 (Special Edition 1963-64, p.164) as last amended by Council Directive 95/25/EC, OJ No. L148, 30.6.95, p.52). back [4] OJ No. L46, 19.2.91, p.19 as last amended by Council Decision OJ No. L1, 1.1.95, p.1). back [5] OJ No. L340, 11.12.91, p.17 as amended by Council Directive 95/29/EC (OJ No. L148, 30.6.95, p.52). back [6] 1986 c.14. back [7] Published by the International Air Transport Association, 2000 Peel Street, Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3A 2R4. back [8] Copies of CITES can be obtained from the Department of the Environment, Tollgate House, Houlton Street, Bristol BS2 2DJ. back [9] S.I. 1975/1074 to which there are amendments not relevant to this Order. back [10] OJ No. L340, 11.12.91, p.17. back [11] S.I. 1981/1051.
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