Keeping your farm safe includes managing the risks that come with vehicles. Vehicles can unknowingly bring pests, seeds, and diseases onto your property, especially if they travel to various farms, increasing the risk of cross-contamination.
In the event of a disease outbreak, vehicles can become carriers for pathogens. Contaminants like manure or soil can cling to tyres, undercarriages, and other parts, posing a serious threat to your farm’s biosecurity.
Here’s a simple rundown of key biosecurity practices to keep in mind:
- Farm gate protocols: Your farm gate is your first line of defence. Make sure you have clear signage detailing your biosecurity plan and requirements. Don’t forget to include instructions for visitors and contact details for the farm manager.
- Managing entry points: Control biosecurity risks by limiting access points. Set up a designated parking area for visitors to keep their vehicles away from sensitive production areas like paddocks and livestock sheds—unless they’ve been approved and cleaned.
- Vehicle wash points: When vehicles need to access production areas for things like feed delivery or veterinary services, have effective wash points in place. These should:
- Be located away from livestock
- Include high-pressure hoses for thorough cleaning
- Ensure wash runoff moves away from production areas and waterways
- Use broad-spectrum disinfectants that tackle viruses, fungi, and bacteria, with enough contact time to be effective
- Maintaining records: Keep track of all visitors and vehicles entering your property, including any vehicle cleaning procedures. You can find sample records on our Farm Biosecurity Toolkit Records page.
By adopting these vehicle biosecurity measures, you’re investing in your farm’s long-term health and success.
