Reviewed October 1993 Contents Use our for questions or comments about G1403. Publication search Poultry Farm and Processing Plant Lighting Joseph M. Zulovich Department of Agricultural Engineering Poultry businesses and poultry industry specialists have known for years the value of specialized controlled lighting for stimulating bird growth and egg production. But the very low lighting level (usually 2 foot-candles or less) required for better egg production has often led to low worker productivity. Houses are windowless to control light, summer heat, winter heat loss and year-round ventilation. Well-designed artificial lighting systems allow workers to perform tasks easily, efficiently and safely. This is also true for related agri-industry processing plants often located in rural areas close to producers. Great emphasis placed on consumer protection and satisfaction brings strict sanitary practices in food processing facilities. Proper illumination helps achieve these objectives. Lighting systems must provide proper quantity, quality and color of light. Worker comfort and safety is important, but light is also needed for production efficiency and for poultry protection, whether birds are housed or reared on the range. Good lighting for farm or industry must be planned with the following factors evaluated: Lighting levels desired to p...
