ABSTRACT
Spraying of water on floors before sweeping is a well-known method of controlling dust dispersion. Nevertheless, the effect of water as a dust binder will fade out as the water evaporates. In general, all kinds of vegetable oil, which is available at reasonable prices, can be used as a dust binder. However, there are some considerations to be made. It is not necessary to use refined vegetable oil, but the oil must be free of particles. Vegetable oil with strong odors might not be suitable, due to its potential effect on animal behavior. Storage of large quantities of oil in livestock buildings requires special attention in relation to its combustibility. The aim of oil-spraying is not to bind dust particles in the air, but to distribute oil as evenly as possible over a large surface area so that it can bind dust particles on the surfaces. The daily oil-spraying rate should preferably be adjusted according to the daily dust production.
