Chapter 7 - Emergency Ventilation

Carbon dioxide (CO₂) concentration in properly ventilated poultry housing can be 3,000 ppm. High CO₂ concentration (above 30,000 ppm) contributes to oxygen deficiency and asphyxiation. Similarly, heat and moisture can build up. Since broilers can die if the power or ventilation system fails, emergency ventilation should be provided.Poultry can survive only 20 to 30 minutes at temperatures above 97°F with still air.

Emergency ventilating systems can range in complexity from an electromagnetic, automatic sidewall-curtain drop for naturally ventilated buildings, to a stand-by electric generator that automatically engages when electrical power fails for mechanically ventilated houses. Emergency ventilation openings with curtain drop should be sized according to broiler age and outside weather conditions. With young, floor-raised broilers, 12V battery-driven brooders may be used to provide emergency heating during cold weather and power outage.

Consider installing an alarm system to alert you when electrical power is off. Test your emergency ventilation and alarm systems regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions.