EMERGENCY SLAUGHTER – Information and FAQS
Updated 12th December 2025
1. Do I need to undertake further training to certify on farm emergency slaughters?
a. Since the end of 2024 changes have been made to training requirements of vets to complete on farm emergency slaughter certification.
- Vets have completed the new training course now live on the FSA website and be appointed an OV-EMSL:
https://www.food.gov.uk/business-guidance/official-veterinary-appointment
- This consists of online training and accompanying MSQ exam.
- The training course is provided free of charge by the FSA.
2. Can I still use the BCVA Emergency Slaughter pads?
a. No, these certificates should no longer be used.
b. The model certificate that can be found at the address below should be used:
3. What other paperwork do I require?
a. Food chain information must also accompany the body of the animal. This does not form part of the veterinary certificate and should be completed and signed by the Owner/Agent at the time of slaughter. An example of this can be found below.
4. What number should I use on the model certificate?
a. From the 1st of April 2025 you MUST use your OV-EMSL number (Example number: FSA/XXXXXXX/XXXXXXXX) which is obtained following completion of the appropriate training and test.
5. What stamp do I use on the model certificate?
a. This is your practice stamp NOT your OV Stamp.
6. What do I require for on farm slaughter of fractious animals or farmed game?
a. You must hold the full OV-HoP by registering with the FSA.
7. Does this apply in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland?
a. Yes it applies in all areas of the United Kingdom.
b. The FSA is the competent authority responsible for the delivery of official controls in England, Wales, and NI and FSS for Scotland. They are working on this project together so any training and qualification for emergency slaughter is mutually recognized across the UK.
8. What will the training course cover?
- The training course will consist of reading a PDF (available here: https://www.food.gov.uk/sites/default/files/media/document/Training%20for%20the%20Appointment%20as%20OV-EMSL%20Module%201%20to%206%20%28November%202024%29.pdf).
- It consists of six modules:
- Module 1 – Introduction and Legislative Status/Framework
- Module 2 – Definition of Emergency Slaughter and Fitness of Animal for Transport and Slaughter
- Module 3 – Ante Mortem Inspection outside the slaughterhouse
- Module 4 – Slaughter and Transport to the slaughterhouse
- Module 5 – Documentation
- Module 6 – What Happens at the Abattoir?
- Once you have finished the training you must complete and pass (pass mark is 20/30) the online MCQs, (OV Emergency Slaughter Appointment Test).
- You will receive an OV-EMSL number which should be used on the model health certificate.
9. How often do I need to complete the training?
- We are required to revalidate every 4 years
10. Do I need any further qualifications?
- No
(It used to be that you must also hold the Essential skills Official controls qualification- OCQ(V)-ES but this is no longer the case).
11. How do I become appointed an OV-HoP?
- You must take and pass the FSA online multiple choice exam which can be found at the link below.
- You must also hold the OCQ(V)-ES and be an MRCVS.
- Once appointed you will receive a certificate authorising you as follows:
- You must resit and pass the test every 4 years to maintain your authorisation .
- You must renew your application for authorisation with the FSA when your OCQ(V) - ES qualification is due for revalidation.
