Biosecurity-supporting measures in the livestock sector: scoping review and farmer perspectives

Background Biosecurity is essential for preventing the introduction and spread of infectious diseases in livestock production. Despite the well-established benefits of biosecurity, the implementation remains inconsistent across production systems. Objective This study reviewed studies on biosecurity-supporting measures, focusing on training, coaching, and sensor technologies, and incorporated findings from a farmer survey on availability and accessibility of biosecurity-supporting measures. Methods A scoping review of 29 peer-reviewed studies was conducted following PRISMA‑ScR guidelines. Information about the availability of relevant biosecurity-supporting measures was collected between October 2023 and May 2024 on 390 farms across 11 different animal species–production system combinations in seven European countries. Results Training and coaching were the most frequently studied biosecurity-supporting measures, whereas sensor technologies received less attention. Coaching and training were associated with improved biosecurity scores, reduced antimicrobial use, and increased farmer engagement. Sensor technologies showed potential for monitoring compliance but raised ethical and practical concerns. Survey results indicated that although many farmers considered themselves well informed, notable gaps remained, particularly in extensive and small-scale systems, in terms of engagement with available information sources and the adoption of supporting measures. Hygiene protocols were the most widely implemented measure, whereas sensors were the least used. Conclusion Overall, personalised and ongoing support, particularly through coaching and training, can improve the implementation of biosecurity practices. However, differences in access to and adoption of supporting measures across systems highlight the need for tailored strategies. Combining conventional approaches with modern technologies and actively involving relevant stakeholders can help strengthen biosecurity across farming contexts.