Horse riding arena dust measurements

E. F. Wheeler, N. K. Diehl, J. L. Zajaczkowski, D. Brown

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

4 Scopus citations

Abstract

Horses and riders are exposed to irritating levels of dust that is lofted during activity in riding arenas. The riding surface, or footing material, is typically a soil-like or organic-based material. A study was conducted in two indoor horseback riding arenas where total and respirable dust was collected over three sampling periods via gravimetric methods. Gravimetric procedures necessitate humidity and static electricity control during weighing evaluations. Even with these precautions, redundant samplers are recommended. Dust was associated with the overall quality of the footing in the arena, with greater dust detected from the footing of lower moisture content with a greater percentage of fine particles (inorganic footing). Dust detection in the arenas was greater and more appropriate when calculated according to level of horse activity in a session. Total dust level was 0.612 mg/m 3 or 3.395 mg/m 3 (organic and inorganic footing, respectively) when calculated based on time arena was occupied by horses. Both dust levels were 2-1/2 to 3 times higher than this during times of horse activity faster than a walk. Respirable particles were 54 to 60% of the total dust during riding activity.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationLivestock Environment VII - Proceedings of the Seventh International Symposium
EditorsM.J. Briggs, M.E. McCormick
Pages171-178
Number of pages8
StatePublished - 2005
EventLivestock Environment VII - 7th International Symposium - Baltimore, MD, United States
Duration: Oct 20 2004Oct 22 2004

Publication series

NameLivestock Environment VII - Proceedings of the Seventh International Symposium

Other

OtherLivestock Environment VII - 7th International Symposium
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityBaltimore, MD
Period10/20/0410/22/04

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • General Engineering

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Horse riding arena dust measurements'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this