Advice on Precautions to be Exercised by People Working in the Countryside

Advice on Precautions to be Exercised by People Working in the Countryside

The livelihoods of many people are closely linked to the countryside. Visits to farms and across farmland could bring contact with livestock susceptible to foot and mouth disease. It is possible, therefore, that inadvertently, infection could be carried to or from places visited.

Before visiting a farm/farmland you should consider:

Is your visit absolutely essential?

If so, restrict the number of people visiting.
Do not allow children to accompany you unless absolutely necessary and they too must be disinfected to the required standard.
Appointments or visits should be rearranged or arrangements made over the phone, by fax or e-mail. Should you still proceed with a isit follow all procedures requested by the owner of the premises. This could include leaving your vehicle outside the farm, disinfecting boots, and wearing boots or clothing supplied by the farm.
Infection could be introduced as soon as you get out of the vehicle, so check what precautions are required before getting out of the vehicle.
Information regarding previous contact with livestock and what disinfection took place are likely to be requested. Mention if you own or care for livestock yourself.
Restrict the movement of objects between farms as these could carry infections and, if they are essential, disinfection will be required. Advice on approved disinfectants is available on the MAFF website or from the local Animal Health Office.

On the farm

Whilst on the farm, visit only essential locations. Visit stock only if absolutely necessary and ensure you have the owners permission. Do not wander round buildings. If it has not been possible to contact the owner beforehand, delay the visit.
Take responsibility for your own actions whilst visiting farms and ensure the highest standards of personal disinfection and cleanliness is carried out at all times. Arrive at the farm clean. Ensure that your vehicle is kept clean.

Leaving the farm

Ensure that all mud, slurry or manure is washed off before leaving the premises.
Apply disinfectant after washing. Spraying is the most effective method, not forgetting tyres and the underside of the vehicle. Spraying should be undertaken even if there is a wheel dip or disinfectant mat in the place. When applying note that concentrated disinfectant may be caustic and require protective clothing to be worn. Always check the label first.
Disinfectant (and water if needed) should be carried in vehicles at all times 9Health and Safety guidelines will apply).
Once the vehicle is clean consider personal cleaning and disinfection. Ideally, disposable over clothes that fully cover your clothing should be worn. If this is not practical then wear a material that can be cleansed and disinfected. Do this before you leave the farm. Disposable items should either be left on the farm or sealed in a plastic bag. They will be disposed of by burning.
Ensure all clothing and boots are disinfected before they are put into the vehicle. A foot dip or spray should be provided.
It is essential that all visits to farms and possible contact with animals are recorded. Should disease occur on a farm then these records will be used to trace movements and possible spread of the disease. The records should include the date and time of visits.

MAFF 2001
www.maff.gov.uk