Hanover. The Lower Saxony Ministry of Agriculture has published recommendations for the use of video surveillance in slaughterhouses. The so-called "guidelines for best practice" are intended to serve as a framework for businesses and veterinary authorities, the ministry announced.
Lower Saxony Proposes AI-Enhanced Video Surveillance for Slaughterhouses
At the same time, the state has submitted the proposals to the federal government for inclusion in the planned revision of the Animal Welfare Act.
Agricultural State Secretary Frauke Patzke emphasized that the document provides a strong technical foundation. "It is high time for the federal government to take action and incorporate mandatory camera surveillance into the Animal Welfare Act," she said. The guidelines outline where surveillance is most effective, offer advice on camera placement, and assist in evaluating footage.
They also address data protection concerns and the potential use of AI systems.
The recommendations were developed by the expert working group on "Slaughter and Killing" as part of Lower Saxony's Animal Welfare Plan. Businesses may already introduce video monitoring on a voluntary basis.
The ministry has also shared the document with animal welfare authorities in other federal states.
