« How to transform the air quality in your veterinary clinic for a healthy, safe and efficient environment? »

• Invisible pollutants and the associated risks • Nosocomial infections in veterinary clinics: an underestimated risk • The consequences of poor air quality on health and performance • Good practices to limit the spread of nosocomial infections • NatéoSanté solutions : for controlled air quality in veterinary clinics • The benefits of controlled air quality for your veterinary clinic • Case study: Impact of air purification and surface sanitation by EOLIS air Manager in a veterinary clinic

Introduction Why is air quality a strategic issue for veterinary clinics? Air quality in veterinary clinics is often an underestimated aspect, but it plays an essential role in the health and well-being of animals, staff and visitors. As a result of the various activities associated with care, anaesthesia, cleaning and surgery, numerous chemical and biological pollutants are emitted into the air. If these pollutants are not properly controlled, they can cause significant health problems and post-operative complications, affecting the overall performance of the clinic. This white paper explores...

Invisible pollutants and the associated risks Veterinary clinics are exposed to a wide variety of pollutants, due to the large number of activities they carry out. These pollutants are not limited to animal odours or chemical residues. They also include volatile organic compounds (VOCs), pathogenic micro-organisms, allergens and fine particles. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) Fine and ultrafine particles Pathogenic microorganisms These compounds, often released by anaesthetic, disinfection or cleaning products, are ubiquitous in veterinary environments. VOCs include substances such as formaldehyde,...

Organic waste Diesel particulates, pollen, dust, fine particles (PM2.5, PM10)... Surface disinfection VOCs, formaldehyde... Formaldehyde, glues, varnishes, VOCs, fungi, mould... VOCs, odours, pet hair, formaldehyde, viruses, bacteria, fungi... Dust, animal hair, VOCs...

A study carried out in several veterinary clinics revealed that VOC levels can reach up to 500 µg/m³, whereas the WHO recommends that levels should not exceed 200 µg/m³ to ensure a safe environment. In addition, a study of fine particles shows that their concentration far exceeds the thresholds considered safe for prolonged exposure.

Pollutants generated by routine activities in veterinary clinics Activities specific to veterinary clinics, such as anaesthesia, surgery, and the use of chemicals or disinfectants, are major sources of pollution. These activities release hazardous substances into the air, directly affecting the health of veterinary teams and animals. Here is a detailed overview of the risks associated with these activities1: Activity Associated risks Regulatory thresholds Gaseous anaesthesia Isoflurane, sevoflurane, nitrous oxide Neurological and respiratory disorders, reproductive toxicity, long-term carcinogenic...

Nosocomial infections in veterinary clinics: an underestimated risk Air and surface hygiene at the heart of the issues Hospital-acquired infections, caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi spread via air or surfaces, are an invisible threat in veterinary clinics. In France, around 5 to 10% of hospital admissions are affected by nosocomial infections, a figure that rises to 16%2 for dogs in North America. These healthcare-associated infections are often transmitted by air or contaminated surfaces, particularly during invasive procedures such as surgery. Often underestimated, they can have serious...

The risks of hospital-acquired infections • Airborne transmission: Hospital-acquired infections are often caused by pathogens such as multi-resistant staphylococci, Escherichia coli or resistant viruses such as canine parvovirus. These infectious agents can spread via the air and contaminate other animals, staff or even visitors. Economic impact: In addition to the health risks, nosocomial infections can lead to temporary closures of clinics for disinfection, at considerable cost. One veterinary clinic in France estimated the financial losses due to a nosocomial infection at around €50,0003,...

The consequences of poor air quality on health and performance Risks to human and animal health The pollutants in the air in veterinary clinics have immediate and long-term repercussions for both animals and staff: Short-term effects Long-term effects Respiratory tract irritation, headaches, fatigue, allergic reactions. Acute exposure to high levels of VOCs can cause respiratory problems in more than 50% of individuals. Increased risk of chronic illnesses such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, neurological disorders and even cancer due to repeated and prolonged exposure to formaldehyde and other...

Good practices to limit the spread of nosocomial infections Preventing nosocomial infections in veterinary clinics is based on the rigorous application of a set of good practices at every stage of care, from receiving animals to surgery. Here are a few essential recommendations for controlling this risk: Hand hygiene Regular hand washing is essential to prevent the transmission of pathogens. Numerous studies show that even brief contact with contaminated surfaces can lead to contamination of the hands. Consequently, the systematic use of hydroalcoholic solutions before and after each interaction...

Managing traffic flows Disinfecting surfaces and equipment The organisation of traffic flows within the veterinary clinic is essential to prevent crosscontamination. The routes taken by ‘clean’ (noninfected) and ‘dirty’ (suspected or infected) animals must be clearly separated. This can be achieved by separate routes in space or by planning care, treating infected animals after the others. Particular attention should be paid to critical areas such as operating theatres, where access should be restricted to essential personnel to minimise the risk of introducing pathogens. Surfaces in contact...