Key points
- Engineering controls reduce or prevent hazards from coming into contact with workers.
- Proper ventilation can help dilute and disperse pathogens.
- Automated miking systems can reduce contact between workers and lactating animals.
Engineering controls for medium and high exposure settings
Proper ventilation in barns and other animal facilities depends on factors such as the size of the building, the number of animals, and local climate. Poor ventilation can lead to the buildup of harmful gases, excessive heat and humidity, and bacteria and viruses. Circulating fresh air helps dilute and disperse potential pathogens and can help control the temperature and humidity.
- Use a ventilation system that provides a constant supply of fresh air.
- Strategically place fans and vents to generate a clean-to-less-clean flow path of fresh air through the space while removing dirty air.
- Use airflow exhaust and makeup air supply strategies that do not discharge high velocity airflow upon building occupants.
- Regularly clean and maintain ventilation systems to minimize the accumulation of dust, feathers, manure particles, and other debris that can block airflow and provide a breeding ground for pathogens.
Use milking systems with automated features, such as automatic takeoffs or robotic systems. If available, these can help reduce worker contact with lactating animals.