Ground surface sampling: A must in the livestock and scientific industries

A green line

By LABPLAS

Animal in a field

In Canada, safety requirements are very high, regardless of the industry. These rigorous processes ensure that all products consumed by Canadians are free of any bacteria that might harm their health. However, one can never be too careful: the smallest elements involved in manufacturing or transformation processes must be subjected to sampling and analysis – even those that do not necessarily come into direct contact with products.

Ground surfaces: A potential source of contamination

In the livestock industry, it is essential to ensure the quality and safety of the facilities. In addition to testing directly related to animals, such as analyzing microorganisms and fluids for disease, or water and manure for potential toxins, it is also important to sample ground surfaces in order to verify the effectiveness of cleaning and disinfection procedures.
A major concern in this industry is the prevention, detection and control of infections by such pathogens as the viruses (H1N1, African swine fever, PRRS, Circovirus, Newcastle) and bacteria (Salmonella and E.Coli) that can be found on ground surfaces.

Furthermore, in food processing facilities, laboratories and factories, floors need to be tested in order to monitor the environment’s microbiological status and avoid any contamination of the products being manufactured or processed. For example, in a factory, water splashes contaminated with pathogenic bacteria that occur in food processing areas, or residues of cleaning chemicals, can end up on ground surfaces and cause cross-contamination.

Person walking

An adapted solution Several tools are available to workers to mitigate this problem and minimize the risks of contamination. At LABPLAS, we offer an innovative product that is ideal for addressing these concerns: our Wipa-Boots sterile sampling kit. Specially designed for sampling surfaces at ground level, Wipa-Boots offer a quick and easy solution to ensure the safety of:

  • Laboratories
  • Clean rooms
  • Factories
  • Food processing facilities
  • Livestock buildings
  • Animal transport vehicles and their washing stations

Wipa-Boots are therefore very versatile since they can be used to perform sampling tests in various environments – and in compliance with USDA and CFIA standards.

How do they work? Our easy-to-use Wipa-Boots are pre-moistened in a Trypton salt solution that allows the sampling of various types of pathogens. Sterile and free of biocides, they feature elastic bands that make them suitable for any work boot size. You simply walk with the boot covers on the surfaces that need to be inspected!

In short, ground surface sampling is a step that should not be overlooked when ensuring maximum consumer protection. Threats of contamination can be present anywhere – so be extra vigilant!