Effects of dust and contaminants in animal buildings on human health and control strategies

Abstract

This paper reviews and discusses the effects of pollutants in animal buildings on human health and the feasible control methods. Due to numbers of components in and on the dust particles, and different particulate, it is difficult to predict the symptom for individual case. Respirable particles are most harmful to human health, and should be considered first. The goal of dust particle control is to protect the human respiratory system from the pollutants, especially the small particles. Measurement of particles should use different methods. It is more reliable to use particle counter to measuring small particles due to the unidentified and unpredictable condition in animal buildings. Source control including secondary dust control is a reasonable way for the pollution abatement. Biofiltration can succeed in multipurpose control and may become more attractive. The principle of small particle removal differs from that of large particles.