Page 105 - SpeedhorseMarch2021

Don protective clothing, eye and respiratory gear before saturating all surfaces with the selected germicide.
VETERINARY VIEWS
to recontamination so test well water before using for cleansing and rinsing.
When it isn’t possible to effectively
clean away organic debris and disinfect cracks, seams, porous surfaces, and corners, seal these areas and/or replace porous materials with non- porous surfaces to facilitate effective disinfec- tion. Porous materials like wood become less porous if coated with polyurethane or marine varnish. Other porous materials include con- crete as well as stall floors made of dirt, sand, or clay. Non-porous surfaces include stainless steel, glass, and sealed ceramic materials.
With respect to corners, rigorous scrubbing with detergent minimizes biofilm formation, especially if done on a regular basis. (As bacteria adhere to a moist surface, they form biofilms – a slimy, sticky secretion that persists on the surface to enhance bacterial survival in the environment.)
Once all surfaces are clean and rinsed well, remove excess water from walls and floors
with a squeegee, and allow them to dry. Open windows and doors in the barn to hasten drying.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Following the scrubbing, cleaning,
and rinsing phases, it is time to disinfect. Select a detergent that works well with the chosen disinfectant. This helps to avoid chemical interactions between detergents, or deactivation of the disinfectant, or for- mation of a chemical reaction that creates
a noxious gas. Check manufacturers’ label directions for important safety information with respect to chemical application and compatibility with other products intended for use, and regarding safety requirements for humans and horses.
Many disinfectants are extremely irritating to the skin, eyes, mucus mem- branes, and the respiratory tract, so take precautions – wear protective clothing, eye protection and gloves. Work in areas with adequate ventilation.
Allow recently cleaned and disinfected areas to dry before reintroducing animals back into the environment.
Besides focusing
on disinfection
of the stabling
areas – barn,
paddocks, fences, and
gates – hand tools, farm equipment, vehicles and trailers should also be addressed.
DISINFECTION
Because disinfectants work best on “pre- cleaned” surfaces, it is essential that as much visible organic debris is removed as possible. Detergents contain surfactants, which aid in the dispersal and removal of organic material on surfaces. A detergent allows the disinfectant to reach microorganisms; it does not reduce the contact time necessary for disinfection, which as a chemical reaction takes time.
Thorough cleaning may eliminate 90% of bacterial content while another 6-7% of
IT IS MOST IMPORTANT TO PAY ATTENTION TO:
Horse-to-horse contact Tack Peoples’ hands and clothing
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