You are aware of the vital importance of hygiene for the good health of humans and animals. Good hygiene can reduce the risk of pathogens being spread and consequently reduce the risk of damages and costs. Due to a higher risk of outbreaks of avian influenza (AI) or an infection with, for instance, salmonella, ILT and coryza, good levels of are becoming more important. The installation and use of a shower for all IKB Kip certified companies has therefore become mandatory since 1 July 2019.
The top three FAQ about the shower
- Why take a shower?
One of the greatest vectors of transmitting disease is people, via human-animal contact. Pathogens on the skin, in the hair and in the respiratory tract/nasal passages attach to dust particles. These particles are not removed when clothing and footwear is changed. This can lead to infection in the barns. Showering thoroughly removes dust particles and along with them, the pathogens. A shower also forms a clear physical barrier before entering the barn.
- What is the transitional period?
From 1 July 2019 clean in, clean out (incl. showering on arrival and departure) is a standard principle in IKB Kip. The best way to achieve this is by installing a walk-through shower facility (enter one end, leave the other). Realising this will take time, so during the transitional period that ends on 1 July 2028 a douche on the plot is also accepted.
- Which regulations should the shower comply with?
The shower(s) in the hygiene sluice must conform to a specific layout, consisting of three separate areas: the undressing area, the shower and the dressing area. This specific layout is called a ‘walk-through shower’.
Read more about the ‘walk-through shower’ here
More information
Click here for more information about the new hygiene measures. This includes information about the location of the shower on the premises and who should use the shower. You can also contact IKB Kip via e-mail (Info@ikbkip.nl) or by phone (+31 88 998 43 40). Please feel free to share the content of this newsletter with your veterinarian or feed adviser so that farm visitors are also aware of the situation surrounding the installation and use of the shower.
