With biosecurity being at the forefront of a successful swine operation, detergents are necessary to establish a clean surface in preparation for disinfection. An effective disinfectant must come into direct contact with the pathogen of concern for inactivation to occur which mitigates the risk of disease transmission. Therefore, the removal of all organic and inorganic material prior to disinfection remains a critical step to optimizing the efficacy of disinfectants in eliminating infectious disease. It only takes the slightest amount of organic material on a contaminated surface to harbor an infectious agent that could serve as the source of a catastrophic disease outbreak. The cleaning process must be designed to address all areas of potential contamination to include various surfaces, materials, and equipment for effective results. Let’s take a closer look at the important features for selection and application of an appropriate cleaner.
It is important to carefully consider the selection of appropriate chemistries for utilization in the cleaning process. Detergent products designed and formulated specifically to clean surfaces without any claims to destroy pathogens are not registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). However, it is necessary to clarify that during the cleaning process, detergents have the capability to remove up to 90% of pathogens present, but inactivation does not occur. Acidic cleaners are effective for alternating pH programs in swine barns, on equipment, and for transport vehicles to remove mineral scale, detergent residues, and other elements that remain after repeated use of alkaline cleaners. Implementing a rotation between an alkaline cleaner and an acidic cleaner will assist in maximizing surface cleanliness for best results with disinfection. A typical cleaner rotation will utilize an alkaline chemistry 66% to 75% of the time and an acidic chemistry 25% to 33% of the time. Acidic cleaner chemistries with active ingredients such as phosphoric acid or hydrochloric acid have a pH below 7. Alkaline cleaners are effective for the removal of fats, proteins, grease, feces, and other biological material that may contribute to biofilm formation in swine barns and on equipment and transport vehicles. Alkaline cleaner chemistries with active ingredients such as potassium hydroxide or sodium hydroxide have a pH above 7. Alkaline cleaners are available in both chlorinated and non-chlorinated formulations.
Additional features to consider in the selection of an appropriate cleaner are foaming capability and corrosivity as well as the surfactants and chelating agents present within the formulation. Foaming capability is important for contact time especially on vertical surfaces and for application coverage. Selecting a non-corrosive formulation is important for longevity of equipment and facilities to prevent maintenance concerns. The surfactants present within a formulation lower the surface tension of water which provides a greater ability to wet surfaces during the cleaning process leading to better penetration, suspension, and removal of dirt and debris. Chelating agents present within a formulation neutralize hard water minerals such as calcium and magnesium to stabilize the chemistry to maintain effectiveness during the cleaning process. Detergents improve the efficiency of the cleaning process which can result in savings in both labor and water usage.
The cleaning process begins with an initial water spray down to remove the loose organic and inorganic material present on all surfaces. Next, utilize properly calibrated foaming equipment to apply a selected cleaner at the appropriate concentration and follow the recommended contact time in accordance with the product label. Recommended contact times typically range from 10 minutes to one hour. The use dilution and contact time for a cleaner can be dependent upon the level of contamination. Ensure adequate coverage of all surfaces to allow the cleaner to penetrate, suspend, and remove dirt and debris. Complete a thorough water rinse on all surfaces to remove the detergent and any remaining contamination. Visibly observe surfaces to detect any areas that may require further attention through manual cleaning to achieve cleanliness. Finally, it is important that all newly cleaned surfaces are relatively dry prior to disinfection to prevent the over dilution of the disinfectant.
With the ever-evolving disease challenges facing the swine industry, it is quite evident the impact that the proper selection and implementation of chemistry and cleaning procedures prior to disinfection can have on the success of your biosecurity program in maintaining a healthy herd. Dedicating the necessary attention to this critical cleaning step will pay dividends. Contact Kersia a trusted industry partner, for additional information and to discuss solutions that meet your individual needs.
