Different management and engineering measures can control the levels of air contaminants like dust and ammonia in swine facilities. This helps lower the safety risk of workers in the barn. Control measures were assessed on their effectiveness on decreasing respirable dust and ammonia levels. Low crude protein diet, oil sprinkling, high level of cleaning and manure pH manipulation were examined. Ammonia concentrations were reduced with a low protein diet, while respirable dust levels were lowered with canola oil sprinkling. Portable monitors for ammonia gas had higher readings than the standardized scientific method for measuring gases. This indicates that the gas monitors will give early indication of potentially hazardous levels of ammonia.
Evaluation of Methods for Controlling and Monitoring Occupational Exposure of Workers in Swine Facilities (full article)
