Strengthening Biosecurity in the Field: Hygiene Training for Swissgenetics Insemination Technicians

As animal disease risks continue to evolve across Europe, effective biosecurity measures are becoming increasingly important throughout the livestock sector. Professionals who move between farms play a particularly important role in preventing the spread of infectious diseases and maintaining animal health.

To support these efforts, SAFOSO designed and delivered a series of hygiene and biosecurity trainings for artificial insemination technicians of Swissgenetics, Switzerland’s largest provider of bovine genetics. Conducted across multiple regions of Switzerland and in both German and French, the trainings aimed to strengthen awareness of disease transmission risks and reinforce best practices for hygiene and personal protection in the field.

Interactive sessions combined technical input with practical demonstrations and hands-on exercises. Participants explored the role of field staff in disease prevention, reviewed direct and indirect transmission pathways of relevant animal diseases, and discussed practical hygiene measures that can be applied during routine farm visits. Particular emphasis was placed on the correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE), including practical exercises on safely putting on and removing protective clothing while avoiding contamination risks.

The trainings also provided an opportunity to discuss common challenges encountered in the field and to reflect on the importance of biosecurity as a shared responsibility. By strengthening both individual competencies and overall awareness, the program contributes to reducing the risk of disease transmission between farms and supports preparedness for potential animal disease outbreaks.

We would like to thank Swissgenetics and allparticipating technicians for their active engagement and valuable discussionsthroughout the training series.