This section provides a guide to the correct stunning position and direction for certain animals, and
helps you to select the correct cartridge for that animal. The cartridge selection information provided
within this section of this instruction manual is not categorical and is hence supplied as guidance only.
GOOD PRACTICE
4
Understand animal welfare - refer to the Animal Welfare section for further guidance
4
Always ensure your stunning tool is in good working order
4
Stunning tools should be cleaned and maintained in accordance with the
instructions within this manual
4
Ensure at least 2 stunning tools are present near the killing box
4
Stunning tools will require more maintenance if used with cartridges that are more powerful
than is necessary for the target animal
EFFECTIVE STUNNING
The cartridge selection and the blow being applied to correct part of the skull and in the right direction
is important in ensuring an effective stun. Refer to the diagrams and selection charts within this section
as guidance towards selection. To obtain maximum effect, the muzzle of the captive-bolt stunner must
always be held firmly against the head.
The physical signs of an effective stun are:
Quadrupeds
4
Animal collapses
4
No rhythmic breathing
4
Fixed, glazed expression in the eyes
4
No corneal reflex
4
Relaxed jaw
4
Tongue hanging loose
THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE STUN MUST BE VERIFIED BEFORE THE ANIMAL IS SLAUGHTERED.
FAILURE TO STUN
If an animal is not properly stunned it must be re-stunned immediately. Using the second or an
alternative stunning tool, a repeat shot must always be placed so as to avoid the immediate area
of the first shot.
STUN-TO-STICK TIMES
The humane killing of livestock using captive-bolt equipment is a two-stage procedure. After the animal has
been stunned, it must be bled (or pithed*) immediately to ensure rapid death.
The stun-to-stick interval is the time from application of stunning equipment to the start of bleeding.
After stunning, sticking should be conducted without delay with a maximum stun-to-stick interval of 15
seconds is recommended for all species in the field. In the abattoir, all pigs, sheep and goats should also
be stuck within 15 seconds. However, on the majority of cattle lines, where the carcase must be hoisted
to a bleed area, maximum stun-to-stick intervals of 60 seconds for the penetrative captive-bolt and
30 seconds for the non-penetrative captive-bolt are acceptable. (These figures are obtained from the
Humane Slaughter Association (HAS) website).
* Dependant upon localised regulations in force.
CASH
®
Magnum XL
EFFECTIVE STUNNING AND
CARTRIDGE SELECTION
P7
SECTION 5
©
