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Scientists at the FGBI "ARRIAH" developed guidelines for assessing the effectiveness of biosecurity systems at poultry breeding and rearing establishments. The document was approved at a meeting of the Scientific Council on October 16 and is intended to identify vulnerabilities in biosecurity systems, assess the risks of introduction of infectious disease pathogens, and determine measures to eliminate violations.

The guidelines are aimed at preventing the introduction of pathogens of highly dangerous infectious poultry diseases, including high pathogenicity avian influenza and Newcastle disease. The document can be used by specialists at poultry establishments and veterinarians when conducting internal and external audits, supervisory activities, as well as when preparing establishments for the assignment of animal health status.

The guidelines contain an algorithm for checking biosecurity systems and a checklist of 119 questions. During the audit, the following are assessed: the condition of the territory and production premises, the operation of disinfection barriers and shower and changing facilities, protection against the entry of wild birds, the organization of rodent and insect control, the quality of water and feed, compliance with veterinary and sanitary requirements, and the effectiveness of preventive measures. Particular attention is paid to staff training and compliance with established biosecurity protocols.

The document also summarizes the most common violations identified during the analysis of epizootiological investigation materials regarding cases where pathogens causing highly dangerous diseases were introduced into poultry establishments. These include the use of untreated bedding and water, the absence of heat treatment of non-commercial feeds, malfunctioning disinfection barriers, violations of disinfection and pest control protocols, as well as personnel non-compliance with biosecurity rules.

Based on the audit results, a conclusion is reached on the effectiveness of the current biosecurity system, and, if necessary, corrective measures are developed.

It should be noted that the guidelines take into account the requirements of Order No. 846 of the Ministry of Agriculture of Russia dated December 26, 2025, "On approval of the veterinary rules for determining the animal health status of land plots, permanent and temporary buildings, premises, and facilities used by individuals and legal entities for the breeding, keeping, and slaughter of poultry, and the production, processing, and storage of poultry products," which enters into force in September 2028.