Assessing dust level in layer barns

Poultry barns are among the livestock buildings with the highest levels of dust. The method to assess aerial dust levels most frequently used by veterinary inspectors is sensorial assessment. However, this method is considered to be of limited validity and reliability by the inspectors themselves as it relies on high levels of subjectivity. In 2021, the EURCAW-Poultry-SFA has tested different methods of dust assessment. The dustsheet test with a duration of 2-3h was found to be both valid and the most accurate method, this is why it is the method that is presented in this indicator factsheet.