Alabama Administrative Code › Title 420 - ALABAMA STATE BOARD OF HEALTH › Chapter 420-3-16 - PRODUCTION, PROCESSING, HANDLING OR DISTRIBUTION OF MILK, MILK PRODUCTS AND FROZEN DESSERTS › APPENDICES › Appendix C - DAIRY FARM CONSTRUCTION STANDARDS AND MILK PRODUCTION

Current through Register Vol. 42, No. 9, June 28, 2024
(I)
TOILET AND SEWAGE DISPOSAL FACILITIES FLUSH
				  TOILETS
(a) Flush toilets are preferable to pit privies,
earth closets, or chemical toilets at both dairy farms and
				  milk plants. Their installation shall conform to the applicable state plumbing
				  regulations. Toilets shall be located in a well-lighted and well-ventilated
				  room. Fixtures shall be protected against freezing. The following shall be
				  considered defects in flush-toilet installations:
1. Insufficient water pressure or volume.
2. Leaky plumbing.
3. Clogged sewers, as evidenced by overflowing toilet
				  bowl.
4. Broken tile lines or clogged disposal field.
5. Access of dairy lactating animals to the effluent below
				  the sewer or disposal-field discharge.
6. Effluent coming to the surface of the ground in the
				  absorption field.
7. Toilet room floor soaked with urine or other
				  discharges.
8. Offensive odors or other evidence of lack of
				  cleanliness.
9. Location of soil lines, septic tank, absorption field, or
				  leaching pit closer to the source of water supply than the limits indicated in
				  Appendix D.
(II)
SEPTIC TANKS
(a) Disposal of the wastes from toilets should preferably be
				  into a sanitary-sewer system. Where such systems are not available to a dairy
				  farm or milk plant, the minimum satisfactory method should include treatment in
				  a septic tank, with the effluent discharged into the soil. Where soil of
				  satisfactory permeability is not available, the effluent shall be disposed of
				  in accordance with the rules of the applicable government authority. It is
				  preferable to treat floor drainage, wastes from washing of utensils, etc., in
				  separate systems. When such wastes are combined with toilet wastes in the
				  septic tank system, careful consideration shall be given to the expected flow
				  in the design of both the septic tank and the leaching system.
(b) The septic tank shall be located a safe distance from
				  water sources as determined by consideration of the criteria indicated in
				  Appendix D and must meet all of the requirements of 420-3-1 Alabama Department
				  of Public Health Onsite Sewage Treatment and Disposal.
(III)
GUIDELINE #45 - GRAVITY FLOW GUTTERS FOR MANURE
				  REMOVAL IN MILKING BARNS - Published by the Dairy Practices
				  Council
(a) The gravity flow gutter concept for manure removal comes
				  from Europe. Manure falls into a deep gutter in the barn floor and then flows
				  by gravity to a cross channel or outlet pipe to storage. A low 8-20 centimeters
				  (3)"- (8)" dam retains a lubricating liquid layer over which the manure flows
				  (Fig. 1). After one (1) to three (3) weeks in a newly started gutter, the
				  manure surface forms an incline of 1 percent to 3 percent above the dam. Then
				  the manure moves continuously over the lip. The gutter shall be deep enough to
				  contain manure sloped at this shallow angle.
Click to view
				  image
Figure 1. Side Cross Section of a Gravity Flow
				  Gutter
Click to view
				  image
Figure 3. Cross Section of a Typical Gutter and
				  Grate
(b) Because manure moves by its own weight, no mechanical
				  equipment is required to remove it from the barn. Generally the cost of the
				  gutter and cover grates is less than the cost of installing, operating, and
				  maintaining a mechanical cleaner.
(c) This system is neither a flush gutter, where 115-225
				  liters (30-60 gallons) of water per cow is needed to remove manure from the
				  gutter, nor is it an under-barn storage that is open to the barn. Rather, it is
				  a conveying channel that carries the manure from behind the cow to the outside
				  storage. The top surface of the slurry has been recorded to move 3 meters (10
				  feet) per hour.
(IV)
CONSTRUCTION
(a) Gutter Depth - Gutter depth depends on the length of the
				  gutter and the angle of incline of the manure surface. Design in this guideline
				  assumes the manure surface forms a 3 percent slope. Most diets form wetter
				  manure, and with no bedding the slope may be 1 percent less. The bottom should
				  be level so the dam will hold a uniform liquid layer. The maximum depth of the
				  gutter at the end opposite the discharge shall not exceed 138 centimeters (54
				  inches). In addition, the outlet shall be clear of obstructions.
(b) The depth includes an allowance for a 15 centimeters (6
				  inches) dam and 8 centimeters (3 inches) deep grates.
(c) Adding steps may decrease the maximum manure depth. The
				  depth from the bottom of each dam to the bottom of the next level varies
				  depending on the distance between steps (refer to Figure 2).
TABLE 6
Slot Size vs. Cattle Age
Age (Months)
1-6
6-12
12-24
Over 24
Slot Size (Inches)
1-1 1/8
1 1/8 - 1 3/8
1 3/8 - 1 5/8
1 1/2 - 1 5/8
(d) Width of Gutters - The bottom of the gutter shall not
				  exceed ninety-one 91 centimeters (thirty-six [36] inches) in width. A
				  seventy-six (76) centimeters (thirty [30] inches) wide gutter is recommended.
				  The gutter opening may be narrowed to fifty (50)- sixty (60) centimeters
				  (twenty [20] to twenty-four [24] inches) in order to reduce the size and costs
				  of grates.
Overflow Dam - The dam retains a lubricating liquid layer
				  over the channel, which is essential to maintain flow. Typical heights range
				  between eight (8) and twenty (20) centimeters (three [3] and eight [8] inches).
				  Dams, if removable, would facilitate total cleanout, when and if necessary.
				  Concrete, a steel plate, or a plank may be used to construct the dam. Caulking
				  may be needed to seal the dam.
TABLE 7
GRAVITY FLOW GUTTER DEPTH VS. LENGTH FOR
								MANURE FROM LACTATING ANIMALS
Length
Depth
Meters
Feet
Cm.
Inches
12
40
58
12
18
60
78
18
24
80
96
24
30
100
114
30
36
120
132
36
1.
Length
- A 70 meter (226 feet) long gutter
				  has worked, but typical distances between dams range from 12 to 24 meters (40
				  to 80 feet). Longer channels must be deeper; hence, they may cost more because
				  they require more concrete and stronger forms.
TABLE 8
STEP HEIGHT VS. LENGTH FOR STEPPED GRAVITY
								FLOW GUTTERS
Step Height
Length Between Dams
For 1.5% Manure Incline
For 3% Manure Incline
40'
7"
14"
50'
9"
18"
60'
11"
22"
70'
13"
25"
80'
15"
20"
2.
Grates
- Commercial steel grates for stall
				  barns and concrete slats for freestall barns are generally available. Table 7
				  suggests slot widths. Grates for stall barns are made from round or flat steel
				  stock.
3.
Cross Channel
- The cross channel may be
				  constructed like the gutter. At least a 60 centimeters (2 feet) drop from the
				  top of the dam to the bottom of the cross channel is suggested to prevent
				  backup of manure into it. The channel may be extended directly to storage. The
				  slurry should enter the bottom; to prevent storage gases and cold air from
				  returning up the channel. Channel depth, below grade, should be sufficient to
				  prevent freezing.
Gravity flow via a concrete, steel, or plastic pipe may also
				  be used to transfer manure to the bottom of the outside storage. Pipe as small
				  as 38 centimeters (15 inches) diameter has been used successfully; however, 60
				  centimeters (24 inches) diameter pipe is recommended.
Do not empty channels into large sumps or pits within, or
				  having direct openings into the barn. These storages will produce gas and odors
				  that will be drawn into the barn through the ventilation systems.
Click to view
				  image
Figure 4. Manure Transfer to Storage
MANAGEMENT
1.
Flooding of Gutters
- Prior to stocking the
				  building, fill the gutters with 8 to 15 centimeters (3 to 6 inches) of water to
				  start the lubrication layer.
2.
Bedding Usage
- The type and amount of
				  bedding used is important to successful operation. Up to .5 kilograms (1 pound)
				  per lactating animal per day of sawdust, fine cut shavings or peanut hulls
				  still allows the system to work. Some have worked with long straw bedding, but
				  it is not recommended. More bedding or long straw increases manure stiffness
				  and may clog the gutter. Lactating animal mats allow minimum bedding use.
				  Sometimes water may need to be added, depending upon the feed ration and amount
				  of bedding used.
3.
Wastage and Deposits
- Keep feed and hay out
				  of the gutter. Barn lime and soil brought in from outside may settle to the
				  bottom. For this reason, the overflow dam on some gutters is removable for
				  clean out. Buildup of solids has not been a problem under normal management,
				  although the gutter will need cleaning if it has not been used for some time.
				  Watch for islands of solids, especially where excess bedding or feed builds up.
				  Cut these islands free of the walls to keep them flowing.
4.
Cleaning Grates
- Grates need cleaning at
				  least weekly and, preferably, daily. A broom connected to a hose makes the job
				  easy.
5.
Flies and Odors
- Flies have caused little or
				  no problems. Biodegradable oil such as mineral oil may be sprayed on the manure
				  surface to control them. Little or no odors have been observed in barns with
				  good ventilation. There is no need to install fans to ventilate the
				  gutters.
IV.
CONVALESCENT (MATERNITY) PENS IN MILKING BARNS AND
				  STABLES
While the requirement for concrete floors in milking barns
				  and stables is necessary for good sanitation, climatic conditions in some areas
				  of the country has created a need for convalescent (maternity) pens to be
				  located in milking barns and stables. Therefore, convalescent pens may be
				  allowed in the milk barn or stable; provided that the following requirements
				  are met:
1. All floors in the production milking facility, with the
				  exception of the convalescent pens, shall be of an impervious surface, with
				  slopes for drainage as currently listed in the regulations.
2. Milk from animals milked in convalescent pens with
				  non-impervious floors shall not enter the distribution system or be
				  sold.
3. Routine milking in pens shall not be allowed.
4. Pens shall be located in a location so as not to
				  contaminate milk holding transfer facilities or water supplies. Convalescent
				  pens cannot be within 15 meters (50 feet) of a well.
5. A minimum of a 15 centimeters (6 inches) curb shall be
				  provided on all exposed sides of the pen(s).
6. Convalescent pens shall be well bedded, clean, and dry at
				  all times.
7. No water faucet or drinking fountain shall be located
				  within the curbed area.
8. State sanitarians, at their discretion, may require
				  cleaning and/or reconstruction of such pens, based at intervals as necessary
				  when the pens present a sanitation problem.
9. It is recommended that the number of pens be limited to 1
				  per 50 lactating animals.
Click to view
				  image
Figure 5. Side Cross Section of a Convalescent
				  Pen
VI.
GUIDELINES FOR CONVENTIONAL STALL BARN WITH GUTTER
				  GRATES OVER LIQUID MANURE STORAGE
INTRODUCTION
The use of liquid manure storage under milking barns can be a
				  cost, labor, and energy efficient method for handling dairy animal wastes. This
				  type of system can aid in pollution control and will provide a safe and healthy
				  environment for cattle and humans under the following guidelines:
1. Plans for the construction of a conventional stall barn,
				  with gutter grates over liquid manure storage, shall be submitted to the Health
				  Officer for approval before work is begun. Upon completion of the work, the
				  builder shall furnish the purchaser with a signed written statement certifying
				  that the system is constructed so as to be in full compliance with these
				  guidelines.
2. The storage capacity of the liquid manure tank shall be
				  for a minimum of nine (9) months.
3. A negative pressure mechanical ventilation system shall be
				  installed to meet the following requirements (refer to Figures 6 and 7):
a. Provide a maximum exhaust capacity of 40 air changes per
				  hour from the occupied area. Of this total, about one-half, 20 air changes per
				  hour shall be considered the cold weather part of the system and shall be
				  exhausted through the manure storage area. The remaining 20 air changes per
				  hour shall be considered the warm weather part of the system and shall be
				  exhausted through the barn walls.
b. Of the 20 air changes exhausted through the manure storage
				  area there shall be a minimum continuous exhaust of 4 air changes per hour. The
				  additional cold weather capacity of about 16 air changes per hour shall be
				  thermostatically controlled. All fans exhausting from the manure storage area
				  shall be installed in permanent fan houses built on the exterior wall of the
				  barn and connected directly to the manure storage area. These fans shall be
				  single-speed with a certified delivery rating against 6 millimeters (0.25 of an
				  inch) water gauge static pressure. One (1) pit fan shall operate continuously.
				  Airflow shall be from the occupied area through the gutters. The use of
				  variable-speed fans is prohibited.
c. Fans supplying the additional summer capacity shall be
				  mounted to discharge directly through the barn walls. They may be mounted on
				  the outside of the building and the openings closed with insulated panels in
				  cold weather, or when mounted in the walls be protected with an inside
				  insulated cover to eliminate condensation and frost formation on the shutters
				  and mountings. Warm weather fans are to be located on the same side of the barn
				  as the pit fans. They must have a certified delivery rating against 3
				  millimeters (0.125 of an inch) water gauge static pressure and should be single
				  speed.
d. All fans, except those providing the minimum continuous
				  exhaust rate are to be controlled by thermostats located away from the barn
				  walls. All pit fans are to be in operation before any of the wall fans are
				  started. An electrical thermal overload device of the proper size shall protect
				  each fan.
e. Calculation Method: To calculate the fan capacity in cubic
				  feet per minute (cfm) for a particular barn, multiply the length times the
				  width times the average ceiling height, all in feet, to obtain the volume.
				  Divide the volume by 15 to obtain the minimum continuous capacity of 4 air
				  changes per hour in cfm.
Click to view
				  image
For Example: Barn width 36 feet, length 160 feet and average
				  ceiling height eight (8) feet-(6) inches. This would be a reasonable size for
				  60 stalls and 2 pens. The calculation of the minimum continuous exhaust for
				  this example would be:
Click to view
				  image
Total cold weather capacity of 20 air changes per hour equals
				  5 times the minimum capacity: 3,264 x 5 = 16,320 cfm.
Use 2 fans of 3,264 each and 2 fans of 4,896 cfm each to make
				  up the total. Build (2) fan houses. Mount one 3,264 cfm and one 4,896 cfm fan
				  in each. Operate one 3,264 cfm fan continuously. Thermostatically control the
				  second 3,264 cfm fan at 4.5°C (40°F). Control the two (2) larger fans
				  with thermostats set at 6°C (43°F) and 8°C (46°F). Divide the
				  summer capacity of an additional 20 air changes per hour among three (3) fans
				  of 5,440 cfm each. Locate these fans in the walls. Control them with
				  thermostats set to 10°C-13°C (50°F-56°F (refer to Figure 6 for
				  the approximate locations for all fans). Fans of the exact calculated capacity
				  are usually unavailable. Always select those having a slightly higher rather
				  than lower capacity.
f. Adequate incoming fresh air, to enable the fan exhaust
				  system to function as designed, shall be provided. A continuous slot inlet with
				  manual adjustment on 1 side is recommended to provide uniform fresh air
				  distribution throughout the barn (refer to Figure 7). Adjustment of the slot
				  opening opposite the fans is to be done manually for cold and warm weather
				  conditions. Careful construction of the fresh air intake system is essential to
				  the satisfactory performance of the ventilation system.
4. A stand-by generator to supply electric current to the
				  ventilation system, in the event of a power failure, shall be provided.
5. Construction Requirements
a. The floor system over the pit shall be designed to safely
				  support all animal weight, plus the possibility of a tractor that may be needed
				  to remove a sick or dead animal. Agitating and pumping of the stored manure
				  shall be done through annexes built outside the barn (refer to Figures 6 and
				  7). Service alley floor and lactating animal stall platforms shall be
				  constructed to drain to the grated gutter tank opening, located between the
				  lactating animal stall and the service alley.
b. Waste water from the milkhouse can be discharged into the
				  pit. Sanitary (toilet) waste shall not be disposed of in the manure storage
				  tank. When wastewater from the milkhouse is discharged into the pit, a drop
				  pipe shall be connected to the discharge line so that the liquid waste will be
				  deposited beneath the surface of the tank contents to prevent turbulence and
				  possible odor production.
c. Grates over the gutters, tank slot openings, shall be of
				  sufficient strength to support all applied loads. A suitable grate design is
				  one using 16 millimeters (0.625 of an inch) smooth steel bars running the
				  length of the open gutter. The distance between the center of the first bar and
				  the vertical face of the stall platform should be 57 millimeters (2.25 inches).
				  The remaining bars should be spaced 63 millimeters (2.5 inches)
				  center-to-center. Support bars crossing the gutters should be 19 millimeters
				  (0.75 of an inch) diameter and spaced 40 centimeters (16 inches)
				  center-to-center.
6. Little or no bedding can be used with this system, rubber
				  mats or equivalent, and lactating animal trainers shall be installed at the
				  time the barn is constructed. Daily cleaning of grates with a stiff broom or
				  scraper is recommended.
7. Other construction criteria and management practices
				  recommended for stall dairy barns should be followed.
8. Requirements for emptying holding tanks:
a. Remove all animals and post signs on all doors that no one
				  is to enter the milking barn during the time the tank is being agitated.
b. All pit fans shall be operating during agitation and
				  emptying.
c. All milkhouse and feed storage area openings, doors,
				  windows, etc., shall be closed.
The milking barn shall remain evacuated by animalsd. and
				  people for at least one (1) hour, after agitation of the holding tank is
				  completed.
Click to view
				  image
Figure 6. Schematic Diagram Showing Suggested Exhaust
				  Fan Locations for a Typical Stall Dairy Barn with Gutter Grates Over Liquid
				  Manure Storage
Click to view
				  image
Figure 7. Schematic Diagram Showing General Pattern of
				  Ventilation Air Movement, Slot Inlet Design and Fan House for Pit
				  Fans
I.
DAIRY - CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION - MILKING BARN,
				  STABLE OR PARLOR
Numerous factors, including the size and topography of the
				  farm, the availability of utilities, the condition and disposition of existing
				  buildings, the dairy operator's ultimate goals for the enterprise, and the
				  operator's construction budget serve to make each milk producer's herd housing
				  problems individual and unique.
While there has been a tendency for workers to develop strong
				  convictions about the practicability of given housing or milking systems, there
				  is little doubt that the success or failure of most dairy farm operations may
				  be traced to good or poor planning. When the unique problems of each system in
				  its individual applications are given proper consideration, the job of
				  producing clean milk is made easier and compliance with regulations is
				  simplified. For example, operators of barns in which lactating animals are
				  housed and milked will find that efficient ventilation not only reduces
				  condensation but also relieves the problem of dust and mold on walls, ceilings,
				  and windows. When window sills are sloped or windows set flush with interior
				  walls in stanchion barns, the accumulation of dust and unwanted miscellaneous
				  items is similarly lessened. Covered recessed light fixtures remain clean
				  longer and are less subject to damage than those projecting from the
				  ceiling.
Operators of milking parlor loose-housing systems, on the
				  other hand, will value design features such as mechanically operated doors,
				  which speed up animal traffic, and glazed wall finishes, which cut down the
				  time required for proper post-milking wash-up of the parlor. Cleaner lactating
				  animals result from proper planning and management of exercise yards and bedded
				  areas. At least 9 square meters (100 square feet) of surfaced yard and not less
				  than 5 square meters (50 square feet) of bedded space are recommended for each
				  animal to be accommodated. Provisions shall also be made for the removal at
				  least daily of manure from exercise yards and traffic lanes. Operators
				  utilizing loose housing have shown considerable interest in free-stall housing.
				  Many workers have concluded that it provides the solution to the problems of
				  unclean lactating animals and excessive bedding demands that have plagued loose
				  housing in past years. Milk producers planning new construction or large-scale
				  changes in existing housing should carefully study its features.
Adequate light shall be available in all work areas in the
				  milking barn, stable or parlor. Because many dairy functions are frequently
				  performed after dark, it is important that the required minimum of 10
				  foot-candles (110 lux) of illumination be available from artificial sources.
				  While absolute certainty of compliance with this requirement can only be
				  confirmed by the use of a light meter, experience has shown that milking barns
				  which otherwise meet the standards of these Rules will be properly lighted when
				  equipped with one 100-watt bulb (or its fluorescent equal) for each 3
				  stanchions or per 3 meters (10 linear feet) of walkway behind each row of
				  lactating animals in face-in barns or between rows of lactating animals in
				  face-out barns. In addition, a smaller number of bulbs, equally spaced, are
				  recommended for feed alleys in front of the lactating animals. When natural
				  light is utilized, a minimum of .37 square meters (4 square feet) of window
				  space for each 5.6 square meters (60 square feet) of floor space is
				  recommended.
Construction plans and suggestions for the various systems of
				  animal management are available to the sanitarian and the dairyman from
				  numerous sources, including the USDA, the county extension agent, farm
				  periodicals, and the trade associations serving the building supply
				  industry.
MILKHOUSE
Milkhouses should be large enough to provide adequate space
				  to meet present needs and should take into account the prospect of future
				  expansion. Installed milkhouse equipment should be readily accessible to the
				  operator. Aisles should be at least 76 centimeters (30 inches wide), with added
				  allowance at the outlets of bulk milk tanks, adjacent to wash-and-rinse vats
				  and where operational conditions warrant. It is especially important that the
				  space available to bulk milk tanks and mechanical cleaning systems be adequate
				  to permit their disassembly, inspection, and servicing.
Floor drains should not be located under bulk milk tanks
				  unless there is sufficient room for servicing. Floor drains should not be
				  located directly under the outlet of a bulk milk tank. Drains and waste
				  disposal systems should be adequate to drain the volume of water used in
				  rinsing and cleaning.
Milkhouses should be well ventilated. Proper ventilation not
				  only avoids the obvious disadvantages of condensation on equipment and walls,
				  it also lengthens the useful life of the building and its equipment. The
				  constant need for renewal of painted surfaces, the repair of wooden fixtures
				  and frames, and the removal of algae and mold from walls and ceilings of poorly
				  ventilated milkhouses can represent a continuing expense to the
				  operator.
Where possible, windows should be placed to provide cross
				  ventilation. In addition, one (1) or more ceiling vents should be located to
				  receive water vaporizing from wash-and-rinse vats and other sources of
				  evaporative moisture.
Glass brick is sometimes substituted for windows in milkhouse
				  construction. In these instances, mechanical ventilation shall be provided. A
				  system affording filtered positive air pressure is recommended over exhaust
				  ventilation, as the latter frequently draws dust, insects, and odors into the
				  milkhouse.
The great demand for water under pressure in milkhouse
				  operations has emphasized the importance of protecting plumbing from freezing.
				  Devices that have proved effective include the insulation of water lines, the
				  use of wrap-around heat tape, infrared lamps, and thermostatically controlled
				  space heaters.
Insulated milkhouses make protection against freezing easier
				  and more economical, and offer the additional advantage of greater comfort for
				  the operator. The factor of personal convenience frequently results in better
				  performance by the operator, with subsequent benefits to milk quality.
				  Automated milking and mechanical cleaning systems of milking equipment has
				  increased the use of hot water in the milkhouse. The following table indicates
				  the volumes of water required to fill 30 meters 100 feet of pipeline of varying
				  diameters:
TABLE 9
WORK WATER VOLUME OF VARIOUS SIZED
								PIPELINES
Pipe Diameter (Inches)
Gallons
1
4.7
1.5
9.2
2
16.3
Since most cleaning installations employ a pre-rinse,
				  followed by wash-and-rinse cycles, this table actually represents only
				  one-third (1/3) the usual milking-time demand for heated water. Also, it does
				  not include the "take up" of collecting jars, pumps, rubber parts, etc. Udder
				  washing, bulk milk tank cleaning, and similar milkhouse tasks offer additional
				  uses for hot water.
Sanitarians should compute the hot water demand of the
				  individual milking systems under their supervision and require that not less
				  than the minimum amount be available at all times. Milk producers should be
				  made aware of the fact that effective cleaning of mechanically cleaned
				  installations is impossible without adequate hot water and should be encouraged
				  to provide a supply which exceeds their expected need. Such planning avoids
				  emergency shortages and allows for normal expansion of the herd and
				  facilities.
Detailed plans for milkhouses, as well as recommendations on
				  hot water needs, insulation, lighting, and ventilation are available from power
				  companies, building supply associations, county agricultural extension agents,
				  and state universities.
Refrigeration, electrical, or mechanical systems powered by
				  gasoline or diesel engines has no place in a milkhouse, milking barn, or in any
				  communicating passageway between the milkhouse and milking barn. Such equipment
				  is characteristically given to oil leakage and the discharge of fumes. The
				  space occupied by it is difficult to keep clean and frequently becomes a
				  gathering place for trash and flammable materials. With effective planning,
				  these engines and their accessory equipment can be located, without detriment
				  to their performance, in a separate room or building adjacent to the barn or
				  milkhouse.
MILKING METHODS
Milking methods shall be geared to permit the efficient
				  withdrawal of milk without introducing undue numbers of bacteria or causing
				  injury to the udder.
The goal of a successful milking procedure is to ensure that
				  most dairy animals will be milked quickly, gently, and completely under
				  conditions that optimize udder health and result in the production of milk with
				  a low bacteria count and somatic cell count.
3-A Accepted Practices for the Design, Fabrication,
				  and Installation of Milking and Milk Handling Equipment, Number
				  606-##,
provides guidance on performance and information requirements
				  and certain dimensional requirements for satisfactory functioning of milking
				  equipment for milking and cleaning. Methods for milking equipment testing to
				  ensure compliance with this Accepted Practice are presented in the NMC
				  guidelines
Procedures for Evaluating Vacuum Levels and Air Flow in
				  Milking Systems
.
Suggested milking procedures to minimize the risk of mastitis
				  and to enhance the quality of milk are presented in the NMC publication
Current Concepts of Bovine Mastitis
and the NMC factsheet
Recommended Milking Procedures
.
It has been known for many years that a relationship exists
				  between mastitis and milking practices. While not all the facts are known about
				  mastitis, it is abundantly clear that its control is enhanced by use of
				  mechanically sound milking equipment and good milking practices. The NMC has
				  described a satisfactory milking system as one which:
1. Maintains a stable vacuum in the teat cup and at a level
				  adequate for completely milking most udders in three (3) to five (5)
				  minutes.
2. Does not stress the tissues of the teat by excessive
				  stretching and ballooning.
3. Produces massage without harsh action.
4. Is designed so that the entire system can be sanitized
				  efficiently and satisfactorily. The NMC considers proper milking procedure to
				  include the following:
(i) Before the milking unit is applied to the udder, the
				  operator takes thirty (30) seconds to prepare the lactating animal in the
				  recommended manner to obtain milk letdown, and the milking machine should be
				  applied immediately thereafter.
(ii) The teat cups are attached in a manner to limit the
				  volume of air drawn into the system.
(iii) The teat cups are positioned as low on the teats as
				  practicable.
(iv) The operator stays near the machine and, at the end
				  point of milk removal, the claw is briefly pulled down to open the teat cavity
				  and remove the strippings. Stripping by machine should not extend over a period
				  of more than fifteen to twenty (15-20) seconds. Prolonging stripping can be
				  injurious to the udder.
(v) Before removing the machine, the vacuum to the teat cups
				  is broken and the cups removed in a gentle manner.
REVERSE FLUSH SYSTEMS
Systems are acceptable if they are designed, installed, and
				  operated in accordance with the following parameters for reverse flush
				  systems:
1. All product-contact surfaces shall conform to the
				  construction criteria of
				  420-3-16-.09(09).
2. An intervening break to the atmosphere shall be provided
				  between the water and/or chemical solution and the milk and/or milk
				  product-contact surfaces at all times.
3. If a pre-rinse cycle is used it shall be with safe
				  water.
4. The system shall provide for:
(a) A chemical solution cycle with a chemical solution
				  complying with the provisions of Appendix F of these rules.
(b) The chemical solution strength shall be limited to that
				  strength necessary to accomplish its intended effect and shall not leave a
				  significant residual in the milk.
(c) A post-rinse cycle with safe water. The use of treated
				  water to prevent psychrophilic microorganism contamination should be
				  considered.
(d) A drain cycle with sufficient time to drain or remove all
				  moisture from the product-contact surfaces of the reverse flush system.
5. When air under pressure is used in contact with product or
				  solution-contact surfaces, it shall comply with the requirements for air under
				  pressure contained in
				  420-3-16-.09(16),
				  provided that an exception to the piping requirement for the air piping
				  downstream from the terminal filter may be granted when:
(a) The piping is used only for filtered air.
(b) At least one (1) access point is available to determine
				  cleanliness of the air piping.
(c) The piping is of a smooth, non-absorbent,
				  corrosion-resistant, non-toxic material, including any adhesives used in
				  joints.
In some installations, a check-valve may be required to
				  prevent water and/or chemical solution from entering these air lines.
DRUG RESIDUE AVOIDANCE CONTROL MEASURES
Animal identification and record keeping are critical for
				  avoiding milk drug residues. Producers should establish systems to ensure that
				  animal drugs are used properly and be able to provide evidence that adequate
				  control over the administration of drugs to prevent residues in milk and/or
				  meat has been implemented. These control systems should accomplish the
				  following objectives:
1. Lactating animals treated with medicinal agents
				  are:
(a) Identified, i.e., leg bands, chalk marks, etc.;
				  and/or
(b) Segregated; or
(c) Other means provided to preclude the adulteration of milk
				  offered for sale.
2. Treatment Records include the following
				  information:
(a) Identity of the animal(s) treated.
(b) Date(s) of treatment.
(c) Drug(s) or other chemicals administered.
(d) Dosage administered
(e) Milk discard time.
(f) Withdrawal time prior to slaughter, even if zero.
Note
: Records may consist of paper and file
				  folders, card files, appointment book-type calendars, monthly paper calendars,
				  chalk boards (temporary records), electronic computer records, etc.
3. Maintenance of Records - The proper use or misuse of some
				  animal drugs may cause prolonged residues in milk 4 to 45 days and meat 18 to
				  24 months. Verification of drug treatment records may be necessary in the event
				  of an investigation or trace back by the industry or Health Officer to identify
				  specific treated animal(s) that may be related to a milk or dairy beef residue.
				  Producers should maintain all treatment records for a minimum of two (2) years
				  in the event of a need to trace back or follow up on a confirmed milk or meat
				  residue.
4. Quarantine/segregation of treated animals or other means
				  to preclude the sale of milk or offering of treated animals for sale for
				  slaughter prior to the end of the prescribed withdrawal time.
5. Education of all farm personnel involved in treating
				  animals on proper drug use and methods to avoid marketing adulterated milk or
				  meat for human food.
INSECT AND RODENT CONTROL
The complete elimination of flies from the farm premises is
				  practically unattainable. However, a major reduction of fly infestation is
				  obtainable by the dairy farm operator who conscientiously follows a sustained
				  program of sanitation, screening, and the proper use of insecticides.
The milk producer or milk plant operator must be continually
				  aware of the potential hazard to people and animals which is inherent in most
				  pesticides, including insecticides and rodenticides. It is important that they
				  employ only those insecticides and rodenticides that are recommended by
				  competent authority for the insect and rodent problems they seek to overcome,
				  and that they follow implicitly the manufacturer's label directions for their
				  use. Questions on the use of pesticides should be referred to the appropriate
				  Health Officer and/or County Agricultural Extension Agent.
Intermittent, time release, high-pressure insect fogging or
				  spraying systems shall be installed and operated in accordance with the
				  following guidelines:
1. The insecticide shall be registered with the EPA.
2. The label on the insecticide container shall specify that
				  the insecticide may be used on dairy farms and in milking areas.
3. The label shall contain adequate instructions for the safe
				  use of the insecticide.
4. The insecticide shall be designated for use in an
				  intermittent, time release, high-pressure insect fogging system and used in
				  accordance with the labeling directions.
5. The container, tank, or barrel of concentrated insecticide
				  or use solution and the pumping or pressurizing equipment shall not be located
				  in the milkhouse.
6. Nozzles, which would emit, spray, or fog the insecticide
				  shall not be located in the milkhouse.
7. Nozzles shall be located, positioned, and operated so that
				  they will not spray, fog, drip, or drain any insecticide on milk pipeline and
				  return solution line openings, milking machine appurtenances, including milk
				  claws, inflations, flow sensors, and interconnecting flexible milk tubing, milk
				  receivers, or releasers, milk pumps, weigh jars, milk measuring equipment, or
				  over any area where milk is poured, strained, or transferred.
8. Nozzles shall be located, positioned, and operated so that
				  they will not contaminate any feed or water.
9. The fogging or spraying systems, which have nozzles
				  located in the milking barn or parlor, shall not be operated during milking. In
				  addition, the system shall not operate during the washing and sanitizing of
				  milking equipment in a milking barn or parlor. This may be accomplished by
				  inter-wiring the system so that it will not operate when the vacuum pump is
				  operating or by a master cut-off switch with a conspicuously posted sign
				  warning the operator that the switch shall be turned off while milking,
				  cleaning, and sanitizing.
10. The fogging or spraying system shall operate so that only
				  the amount of insecticide necessary to accomplish the intended purpose of
				  reducing fly and other insect populations is used. Excessive insecticide which
				  leaves a film on exposed walls, floors, and equipment, should be considered a
				  violation of Item 19r of these rules.
11. These systems should be considered an adjunct to and not
				  a replacement for good sanitary practices of proper manure removal and disposal
				  to adequately control fly and other insect breeding on dairy farms.
Effective rodent control, like insect control, is dependent
				  on sanitation for much of its success. The careful elimination of trash and
				  woodpiles; the rodent-proofing of feed bins, corn cribs, and similar
				  structures; the prompt removal of spilled feed and manure to places of ultimate
				  disposition; and the deliberate elimination of protected harborage areas in
				  farm buildings, all tend to discourage rodents near the dairy farm. Such a
				  program also pays excellent dividends in feed savings, lowered maintenance
				  costs for farm buildings, reduced fire hazards, and lessened risk of disease
				  outbreaks among farm animals.
Anticoagulant poisons, Warfarin, Fumarin, etc. have offered
				  improved means of controlling rodents on the farm. Used according to
				  directions, and with due precaution against their consumption by domestic
				  animals, these chemicals should keep the rodent population in check while
				  additional preventive programs are instituted.
REFERENCES
D. W. Bates,
How to Plan Your Dairy Stall
				  Barn
, M-132 (Revised 1972) University of Minnesota.
Midwest Plan Service, Ames, Iowa, Plan No. 72327,
Dairy Barn, 60 Tie Stalls, Gable Roof, Liquid Manure
1974.
D. W. Bates and J. F. Anderson, 1979.
Calculation of
				  Ventilation Needs for Confined Cattle
,
J. of the American
				  Veterinary Medical Association
, 1979.
Midwest Plan Service, Ames, Iowa,
Dairy Housing and
				  Equipment Handbook,
1985.
Author:
G. M. Gallaspy, Jr.
Statutory Authority:
Code of Ala. 1975,
					 §§
											22-2-2,
					 22-20-7.