Challenges in Achieving Optimal Hygiene During Transport

Why is achieving efficient transport biosecurity so complex? In this article, we will outline various challenges that need to be overcome to achieve higher biosecurity in transport vehicles for pigs.

Biological containment or isolation is crucial for biosecurity. The purpose of these measures is to prevent potential sources of infection exposure and to control any exposure as quickly as possible, approaching the level of case indication. In pig production systems, one of the most infectious points is transportation. Transportation on pig farms includes movement of personnel, feed transport, and animal transport. In this article, we will outline the different challenges that need to be overcome to achieve higher biosecurity in pig transport vehicles.

The first challenge in achieving completely clean surfaces is the presence of biofilms. Biofilms are formed by extracellular polymers and microbial secretions, accumulating on inert surfaces. This commonly occurs in animal production environments where secretions accumulate over time and can worsen due to the types of organic matter and minerals in water. Biofilms act as mechanical barriers, reducing the effectiveness of disinfectants. Acidic detergents can penetrate biofilms, enhancing the efficacy of such disinfectants, and it is essential to remove scales and biofilms from surfaces before disinfection.

The second challenge is organic matter, which together with biofilms can serve as a substrate for bacterial and microbial growth. Residues of organic matter can accumulate at hinges and corners of equipment and vehicles, exacerbated during winter with residues on ice, which can carry thousands of viral particles such as porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus, porcine epidemic diarrhea virus, and African swine fever virus, which are highly resistant to low temperatures. Accumulation of biofilms is a critical factor limiting the efficacy of disinfectants. Microbes use these biofilms as protective shields, continuing to reside on surfaces and affecting pig farms.

The third challenge relates to the porosity of surfaces to be cleaned. Ideally, transport vehicle materials should be stainless steel; aluminum also facilitates cleaning. Wood or similar porous materials pose challenges for removing organic matter and biofilms. Non-porous surfaces are easier to clean. When cleaning surfaces with more pores, mechanical action and/or pressure are required to allow detergents to penetrate the surface.

The fourth challenge is water quality and its chemical and microbial content. High mineral content such as manganese, iron, calcium, and pH range, as well as salt deposits, can negatively affect disinfectants and act as a substrate for bacteria. Hard water promotes scale formation, becoming more apparent with changes in the color of aluminum surfaces. In environments with high iron, manganese, and mineral content, certain bacteria thrive, aiding their persistence on surfaces, especially in environments with good pore conditions.

The fifth challenge involves scheduling and transportation within the production system. This poses a critical challenge for truck cleaning. Improper operations may overlap dry cleaning (the first step in removing organic matter) with the timing of high-pressure water cleaning, potentially cross-contaminating other areas due to the generation of organic aerosols. Surfaces must be dried before using disinfectants, which may be improperly timed. Finally, after disinfectant use, trucks may leave the pig farm without drying completely, especially in rainy conditions where heavy rain can excessively dilute or wash away disinfectants.

The sixth challenge is consistency; quality and maintenance of cleaning equipment: water pressure and heaters. Are the correct equipment and products being used? Is the water pressure adequate? Is the temperature suitable? Is the foam quality being achieved? Evaluation and adjustment of coverage and dilution are necessary when needed. In addition to using the correct products, appropriate and efficient cleaning equipment is essential.