Colorado Lamb Processors: Non-Compliance to Humane Livestock Handling in 2021 (USDA)

313.2

HATS Category VI: Electric Prod/Alternative Object Use While performing a routine humane handling audit, at approximately 0929, I, SPHV Dr. REDACTED, accompanied with REDACTED REDACTED; observed the following deficiency, adjacent to the entrance into the knock box: A plant employee using a blue plastic-like whip device (a folded apron) standing over a lamb that was caught in between the fence and floor. The plant employee used a forceful, over the shoulder motion, and began consecutively striking the animal, making contact along the lamb's back, numerous times. The animal appeared to be caught between the fence panel, trying to get away from the employee, but was unable to maneuver past where the plant employee was standing. The animal was observed to be breathing heavily, while trying to crawl and kick past the employee. I observed the lamb struggle for approximately 2 minutes prior to walking closer to the employee. Once the employee noticed USDA presence, he backed off the animal and discontinued his use of the driving implement. The lamb then willingly got up and walked towards the knock box. At this time QA Manager REDACTED, and Plant Manager Kevin Quam were both verbally notified of the forth coming NR. This is not in compliance with regulation 313.2a, which states the driving of livestock from the unloading ramps to the holding pens and from the holding pens to the stunning area shall be done with minimum excitement and discomfort to the animals. Livestock shall not be forced to move faster than a normal walking speed. There have been no other non-compliances for the same root cause issued in the last 90 days. Frontline Supervisor Mr. REDACTED has also been made aware of the forth coming non-compliance, with Denver District management contacted through supervisory channels.