Division 2.2.2 Sampling by the competent authority

At least one sample must be collected using the sampling protocol in addition to samples referred to under point 2.2.1. Further samples shall be taken in order to ensure representative sampling if required by the distribution or the size of the flock.

In the case of sampling referred to in point 2.1(b), (c), (d) and (e), the competent authority shall satisfy itself by conducting further checks, namely by laboratory tests and/or documentary checks as appropriate to ensure that the results of examinations for Salmonella in birds are not affected by the use of antimicrobials in the flocks.

Where the presence of Salmonella Enteritidis and Salmonella Typhimurium is not detected but antimicrobials or bacterial growth inhibitory effects are detected it shall be considered and accounted for as an infected laying flock for the purpose of the F1... target.

The competent authority may decide to allow replacement of one faecal sample or one pair of boot swabs by a dust sample of 100 grams collected from multiple places throughout the house from surfaces with a visible presence of dust. As an alternative one or several moistened fabric swab(s) of at least 900 cm² surface area in total may be used instead to gather dust from multiple surfaces throughout the house, ensuring that each swab is well coated with dust on both sides.

The competent authority may decide to increase the minimum number of samples in order to ensure representative sampling on a case-by-case evaluation of epidemiological parameters, namely the biosecurity conditions, the distribution or size of the flock or other relevant conditions.