A significant risk for transmission of swine diseases is pig transportation. This area needs to be researched to see what biosecurity measures can be taken to reduce risk of disease. Visual inspection as a means for assessing cleanliness is not consistent or reliable so an alternative method to monitor surface cleanliness of swine transport trailers was investigated. The ATP method (adenosine triphosphate bioluminescence) has been used in other industries to monitor microbial contamination. The amount of ATP on the surface is quantified by how much light is emitted. It provides results within minutes. Results show that trailer floors have the highest risk of microbial contamination.
Assessing Cleanliness of Swine Transportation Trailers (full article)
