Controlling the concentrations of airborne pollutants in three different livestock facilities

Abstract

The negative effects of high concentration of airborne pollutants on animal health, welfare and productivity are well documented. Reducing the concentration of airborne pollutants in livestock buildings is therefore an important task and could also help to reduce the occupational health and safety risk associated with farm work. The main objective of this research was to evaluate the effects of spraying a mixture of oil and water directly on the floors of livestock building or applying oil treatment to different bedding materials on the concentration of airborne pollutants inside three different livestock facilities. In addition, a number of other airborne pollutant reduction methods were trialled in a horse facility. Air quality parameters were recorded in: (1) a number of partially slatted, mechanically or naturally ventilated pig facilities; (2) a horse stable; and (3) two poultry buildings. Airborne pollutant concentrations were measured and compared between the treatment and control facilities. The concentrations of both inhalable and respirable airborne particles were significantly reduced in the experimental pig facilities. The results also demonstrated a significant reduction (P<0.001) in the concentrations of inhalable and respirable airborne particles in the horse boxes treated with oil-impregnated bedding material as well in the oil treated poultry building. This technique would enable livestock producers to improve the environmental quality in livestock buildings at a relatively low cost.