This course module is intended to instruct operators in the safe use and maintenance of captive-bolt devices for stunning livestock. This course is also included as part of the longer course program: “Captive-bolt stunning of livestock” but is available separately here for those who just wish to focus on device safety and maintenance but who are already familiar with the overall concepts and terminology of stunning and device use.

This course will explore what you need to do to keep you, and any staff, safe when handling and operating captive-bolt devices to effectively and humanely stun animals. 

There are three activities to complete: A brief pre-course learner survey, the lessons and a feedback survey. 

This course is also included as part of the longer course “Captive-bolt stunning of livestock” but is available separately here for those who just wish to focus on device safety and maintenance.

Who is this course for?

• Any captive-bolt users or managers of captive-bolt users
• Farmers and stock people
• Smallholders and animal keepers
• Knackery and abattoir workers
• Market, mart and transport workers
• Animal rescue personnel
• Animal welfare officers
• Inspectorate
• Other professionals in the livestock production chain

It is recommended that users who are not familiar with captive-bolt stunning already should take the complete "Captive-bolt stunning of livestock" program where all terminology, concepts and details are fully explained.

Course content

The course lessons cover two topic areas:

1. Safe use of captive-bolt devices

2. How to maintain captive-bolt devices

Within these two topics, there are 9 short lessons, as well as the welcome, summary, course completion and two knowledge checker quizzes. There are videos embedded in the lessons to watch and you can return to these at anytime to rewatch again. There are also external links to follow.

You need to complete all activities to get your Certificate of Completion.

Your new skills

In this course you will learn:

1. The fundamental rules of captive-bolt safety

2. Safety features of the devices

3. Operational safety and useful checklists

4. How to keep your device in peak condition

5. Daily and weekly maintenance via tutorials

6. How to spot and troubleshoot device problems

When can I start?

Anytime. This online course is self-paced, which means you can start it anytime and go through the material at your own speed. You can start and stop at any time. The course will resume where you left off the next time you log in.

What do I need to start the course?

To start the course, you'll need internet access and a mobile, laptop, computer, or tablet. This course is designed for mobile divices and laptops. Use Chrome, Edge, Firefox, or Safari for the best results.

Will there be an assessment?

No. there is no final assessment for this course. There are knowledge checker quizzes in the lessons to help reinforce what you have learned in the module. These can be retaken multiple times and do not count towards your successful completion of the lessons. They are just for fun!

Do I get a certificate?

Yes. Once you complete all of the lessons within the course, the survey and provide feedback you will receive a certificate of completion that you can download. This can be found in your “Achievements” area of the learner area.

The certificate lasts for 3 years.

How to cite this course.

If you need to reference this course please use the following citation:

Humane Slaughter Association (2026). Safety and maintenance of captive-bolt devices [Online course]. https://www.hsa.org.uk/

General notice:

In order to safeguard the welfare of the animals at the time of stunning and killing, it is necessary for the course to be both thorough and illustrated. As such, some people may find some of the descriptions and graphics upsetting.  
Please do not continue further or view the video clips if you feel you may be negatively affected by the content. 

DISCLAIMER: 

Captive-bolt stunning equipment is potentially lethal and dangerous for the operator. If you are in doubt as to any aspect of the operation of the equipment you are using, you should consult the manufacturer.  

In no circumstances can the Humane Slaughter Association (HSA) accept any liability for the way in which captive-bolt stunning equipment is used, or any loss, damage, injury or death caused thereby, since this depends on circumstances wholly outside the HSA’s control.

HSA take no responsibility for the content of external sites linked to in this course.