Biosecurity Plan for Aquaculture Facilities
When starting an aquaculture facility that requires approval under animal health legislation, you must prepare a biosecurity plan (biosäkerhetsplan). The plan must document the specific risks of disease transmission into, within, and out of your facility, covering routines, premises, equipment, and water systems.
The biosecurity plan is a mandatory part of the approval process and must be submitted to the Swedish Board of Agriculture (Jordbruksverket). It should address how you prevent introduction of disease, manage movement of fish and equipment between zones, and handle waste water. Jordbruksverket provides templates and guidance for different types of aquaculture facilities.
Biosecurity Plan Requirements
- Risk documentation: The plan must document risks of disease transmission into, within, and out of the facility.
- Routines: Documentation of routines to prevent disease spread.
- Premises and equipment: Description of how premises and equipment are managed to minimize infection risk.
- Guidance: The Swedish Board of Agriculture provides information for different types of aquaculture facilities.
Application
- Mandatory: The biosecurity plan is mandatory for aquaculture facilities requiring approval under animal health legislation.
- Record-keeping: The plan must be kept updated and documented in connection with the operation's record-keeping.
- Supervision: The plan may be reviewed during supervision by the competent authority.