Hertzog Premium Beef LLC: Non-Compliance to Humane Livestock Handling in 2021 (USDA)

313.15(a)(1),313.15(a)(3)

HATS Category VIII stunning effectiveness The following non-compliance was observed on June 30, 2021 at 1630 hrs.While on the slaughter floor verifying HATS Category VIII stunning effectiveness CSI REDACTED heard the establishment knock a market hog while it was in the head chute located just outside the slaughter floor door. Establishment employees then raised the door of the restraining chute and rolled the animal into the building. Before the animal could be shackled it regained consciousness, with blood running from its nose, stood up and walked in a circle . Kill Floor Leadman REDACTED immediately retrieved the back-up captive bolt gun from outside and was able to quickly apply an effective second shot to the animal resulting in immediate unconsciousness. After the animal had been skinned and split we were able to see that the first shot had been placed too low entering the nasal cavity. CSI REDACTED suspended slaughter immediately following the proper stunning of the animal. CSI REDACTED then notified SPHV REDACTED of the incident and the immediate suspension of slaughter at approximately 1635 hrs. A conference call was held with establishment owner, REDACTED SPHV REDACTED and CSI REDACTED During the call REDACTED stated that a trainee had been knocking animals which led to this incident. Mr. REDACTED stated that Leadman REDACTED would knock the remainder of the animals, he also said that a steel would be inserted into the knock site to ensure effective shot placement. It was agreed that these corrective actions were appropriate and would prevent future incidents of similar nature. Regulatory control was released at approximately 1650 hrs. No U.S. Rejected was used as IPP remained in the immediate area. The establishment failed to meet the requirements of 9 CFR 313.15(a)(1) and 313.15.15(a)(3). The establishment does have a written systematic approach to humane handling plan in place. However, it is not considered robust at this time. Establishment owner REDACTED was verbally notified of the non-compliance. A review of recent non-compliances did not reveal any NR's of similar nature.