Control measures for airborne ammonia and respirable dust exposure in swine barns

Extended exposure to airborne contaminants such as ammonia (NH3) and respirable dust in swine facilities has been associated with various health problems among swine barn workers. The overall goal of this study was to assess the impact of selected control measures, namely, canola oil sprinkling, low crude protein diet, high level of cleaning, and manure pH manipulation, on NH3 and respirable dust concentrations in swine production rooms through area sampling and on worker exposure to these contaminants in accordance with National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) methods for occupational exposure monitoring. Results from five trials showed that low crude protein diet can be used for reducing worker exposure to NH3 while oil sprinkling can be used for controlling respirable dust levels in swine rooms. Reduction in airborne levels did not translate to reduction in occupational exposure. Commercial NH3 monitors showed higher readings than the standard NIOSH 6015 method.

Automated summary

The study found that a low crude protein diet can reduce worker exposure to ammonia, while oil sprinkling can control respirable dust levels in swine facilities. However, reductions in airborne levels did not result in decreased occupational exposure. Commercial ammonia monitors showed higher readings than the standard NIOSH 6015 method.