107 Wood shavings: From an occupational hazard in poultry facilities to a global health concern

Globally, poultry production has been found to constitute a serious threat to global health due to microbial contamination. When considering the poultry environment, one of the primary causes of indoor and outdoor air pollution are animals bedding material. Consequently, chicken bedding material may be an underestimated source of pathogens. Currently, there is a lack of information concerning the impact of the bedding material used on fungal development and the health hazards that may be triggered for workers. The preparation of animals’ bedding is one of the duties that exposes poultry workers to more dust, and fungi and their metabolites (mycotoxins). In fact, some evidence already reported fungal exposure in poultry facilities putting farmers at risk for occupational respiratory diseases. Besides, temperature increases due to climate change may influence the susceptibility of pathogens (bacteria, fungi and parasites) in these facilities. This study aims to assess fungal exposure in poultry facilities during birds’ growth cycle and by considering wood shavings as animals bedding material. This study will allow to characterize the risk of fungal exposure in poultry environment, contribute for awareness and foster workplace solutions that will encourage safer working conditions. Finally, performing an exposure assessment in the poultry industry will help address threats to health and ecosystems by identifying priority areas for action to mitigate microbial exposure, promote a safe environment for workers and animals in poultry facilities, and reduce environmental impact.