Commissioning is the controlled process of proving that installed poultry equipment is complete, correctly connected and ready for operators before birds enter the house. It should cover mechanical inspection, utilities, dry runs, safety devices, alarms, emergency arrangements, cleaning and handover records. A powered machine turning on is not, by itself, a completed commissioning test.
Five commissioning gates
| Gate | What to verify | Evidence to keep |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanical completion | Frames, anchors, guards, fasteners, alignment, access and discharge routes | Signed punch list and dated photos |
| Utilities | Power protection, earthing, phase rotation, water supply, drainage and backup arrangements | Utility test results and circuit/valve identification |
| Dry run | Each motor and line first, then the coordinated sequence without birds | Run sheet with faults and corrective actions |
| Controls and alarms | Set points, interlocks, manual override, alarm delivery and failure response | Approved settings register and alarm test record |
| Handover | Operator training, manuals, spare parts, maintenance ownership and emergency contacts | Handover certificate and training attendance |
System-by-system checks
Feeding
Inspect the storage-to-trough path, hopper clearances, cable or track alignment, guards and stop points. Run each row empty before introducing feed. Where practical, perform a controlled feed test and record whether distribution is consistent along the row. Final operating quantities come from the flock programme, not from the commissioning article.
Drinking
Flush the water path using the equipment and water-treatment instructions. Check tanks, filters, regulators, line height, drainage and every accessible drinker. Record pressure or flow at representative points selected by the project engineer. Confirm that a supply interruption has a documented response.
Manure removal and egg handling
Run belts, scrapers, end transfers and cross conveyors individually before a coordinated sequence. Check tracking, guards, tension, transfer clearances and emergency stops. A layer project should also confirm the route from the row belt to the collection or packing point without relying on an untested transfer.
Ventilation and controls
Verify fan direction, inlet or pad condition, sensor identification, control stages, alarms and backup power procedures. WOAH recommends contingency planning when bird welfare depends on mechanical systems. The accepted settings must match the house, climate, bird type and management guide.
Documents that should exist before flock placement
- Approved house layout and equipment list
- Electrical and water connection information
- Commissioning and fault-correction record
- Operating instructions and equipment-specific maintenance schedule
- Emergency plan for power, water, feed and ventilation interruptions
- Spare-parts list and service contacts
- Operator training record
Use the house planning checklist before installation and the daily inspection log after handover.
Request a commissioning-scope review
Send the bird type, house dimensions, installed equipment list, power and water information, and planned flock-placement date. LIVI can then discuss which commissioning documents belong in the project scope.
