Airborne biological hazards in different pig fattening systems.

In this research project two organic and two conventional housing systems for fattening pigs are assessed in regard to the emission of microorganisms, endotoxins and dust. The concentrations of microorganisms and endotoxins varied between the different housing systems while no distinct differences for the dust concentrations were observed. Endotoxins concentrations reached up to 14 495 EU/cubic meter median) in deep litter stable, indicating the high exposure with biological agents during farm work.

A description of the standardized measurement procedures and recommended threshold limit values for biological hazards in Germany.

On the basis of EU directives 89/391/EEC (to encourage improvements in the safety and health of workers at work) and 2000/54/EC (on the protection of workers from risks related to exposure to biological agents at work), biological hazards at work have to be assessed and preventive measures have to be introduced in all member states of the EU. In Germany, national legislation (Biological Agents Ordinance - BioStoffV and Technical Rules on Biological Agents, TRBA) and recommendations of workers' compensation boards define standardized methods for the assessment of airborne mold, bacteria, and endotoxins. This article describes policies and practices in Germany for measurement of airborne bioaerosols and for interpretation of measurements relative to the standards.