Factors associated with dust dispersed in the air of indoor riding arenas

Reasons for performing studyEnvironmental factors contribute to respiratory diseases in horses and man. During exercise, equine ventilation is increased, potentially increasing exposure of the airways to inhaled particulates. Currently, there is very little information on the quality of air in riding arenas. ObjectivesTo evaluate air quality and dust particle concentrations in indoor riding arenas before and after use for riding. Study designLongitudinal study. MethodsAir quality was assessed in 4 indoor riding arenas in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany on a monthly basis for 1 year. Concentrations of particles in 6 particle fractions from 0.3 to 5.0 m were measured in air collected at 4 points in the riding arenas approximately at the height of the horses' (1.5 m) and riders' noses (2.5 m), before and after the arenas were used by one horse performing standardised riding session. ResultsThere were significant differences in the numbers of particles between the arenas within months and between months within the arenas. Particle numbers were significantly influenced by the month and activities in the arenas before and after riding. The effect of the month on differences in the dust concentration may relate to surface watering. A significant increase in numbers of particles was observed after the riding session. Significant interactions were found between measuring heights and month within arena (P<0.01) and there was an interaction between measuring height and time points (before and after riding, P = 0.02). ConclusionsThe amount of dust dispersed in the air increases during riding in indoor arenas and this appears to be influenced by footing material, direct connections between the arena and stables and season, possibly reflecting surface watering practices.