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The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) conducted an exercise today (July 24) to ensure the department's preparedness and readiness in case a culling operation in local poultry farms was necessary.
The exercise, codenamed Bauhinia, provided a scenario for concerned staff to familiarise themselves with the preparation procedures and biosecurity measures for carrying out the operation.
"The exercise focused on the overall on-site preparation and implementation of biosecurity measures, such as the procedure for putting on and removing protective gear, as well as the disinfection and disposal of carcasses," an AFCD spokesman said.
The spokesman said a field command centre and two mock chicken farms were set up for players to carry out the frontline duties, which included mobilising staff and resources, setting up different operation areas in the index farm, and following personal biosecurity guidelines when entering and leaving the index farm.
About 100 players took part in the exercise.
Ends/Friday, July 24, 2009
Issued at HKT 17:01
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