American Association for Aerosol Research - Abstract Submission

AAAR 38th Annual Conference
October 5 - October 9, 2020

Virtual Conference

Abstract View


Effect of Dust and Ammonia Reduction Strategies on Air Quality and Bioaerosols in Alternative Housing for Laying Hens

MAGALI-WEN ST-GERMAIN, Valérie Létourneau, Araceli Dalila Larios Martínez, Stéphane Godbout, Caroline Duchaine, IUCPQ-U.Laval, Canada

     Abstract Number: 360
     Working Group: Bioaerosols

Abstract
The new Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Pullets and Laying Hens (2017) mandates the transition from conventional cages to alternative housing systems. Among them, non-cage systems provide space for improved freedom of movement for each animal. Non-cage systems also contain litter, so hens can perform natural behaviors such as foraging and dustbathing. Although beneficial for animal quality of life, non-cage housing systems may have a negative impact on air quality and respiratory health of workers and animals. Thus, the Research and Development Institute for the Agri-Environment (IRDA) studied three strategies to mitigate dust and ammonia, both common air contaminants in hen housing: 1) reduction of litter surface area, 2) oil aspersion and adding a moisture absorbent in the litter, and 3) oil aspersion and a heating floor for the litter. The experience was carried out in an experimental farm. The farm included twelve identical rooms of 1.2 x 2.5 x 2.4 m. Each room was conditioned to lay twelve Lohmann LSL-Lite hens (19 weeks of age). Concentration of air contaminants (dust, ammonia, endotoxins and microorganisms) per cubic meter were studied in treated experimental non-cage housing systems and compared to those of non-treated systems. Reduction efficiencies (%) of air contaminants concentrations were used to evaluate the impact of the strategies on air quality and bioaerosols. Oil-based strategies reduced from 87 to 98% of dust particles of all size fractions. However, no effect on ammonia, cultivable and total bacteria and mold concentrations was observed, along with human pathogenic agents. Reduction efficiencies of the strategies against total endotoxins still need to be confirmed by upcoming analysis.