12 Oct Legal Details

Issuing the TB181 form after reactor discovery

APHA have occasionally had some problems in reactor removal and enforcement of restrictions on some farms. Apparently it is vitally important that every step of ‘due process’ is followed if legal enforcement becomes necessary. One key step is that proof exists that the TB181 form was issued each and every time reactors, and indeed inconclusive reactors, are revealed at testing.

Regardless of how many times the form has been issued previously OVs are obliged to provide a further copy of the form and it is probably good practice to keep a copy yourselves, ideally with a signature from the farmer to certify that they have received their own copy.

Evidence bags for tags

On a similar note it is advised that tag capsules are placed in the evidence bags and are sealed in front of the farmer. Once again this is all part of the evidence chain proving that the tagged animal is the one that was tested as a reactor. For this reason having evidence bags with you on farm is an essential part of the TB kit. This is quite a common failure point at audit and is easily rectified.