Activities with biological substances in agriculture and forestry - Excursus

TRBA 230 "Protective Measures for Activities with Biological Agents in Agriculture and Forestry and Similar Activities" specifies the requirements of the BioStoffV. Which biological agents and what hazards can occur in these areas?

When working in agriculture, forestry and similar activities, employees with animals and Plant A source of biological substances can be, for example, bedding, stored plant parts, the animals themselves, but also biological substances adhering to vehicles, machines and work equipment as well as contaminated clothing. When working in low vegetation, for example, Ticks which can transmit Lyme disease and tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) pathogens. However, these are primarily bacteria and Mold fungi that can reproduce independently of plants and/or animals.

In most cases, exposure to mixed biological agents occurs, which is subject to temporal and spatial fluctuations depending on the activity and environmental conditions. Biological agents can then be present over several Recording paths (oral, respiratory tract, skin, mucous membranes, and skin) and have infectious, sensitizing, or toxic effects. The risk generally increases with the level, duration, and frequency of exposure, but can occur even after a single contact with infectious biological agents.

As a rule, these are biological agents of risk group (RG) 1 and 2. However, the occurrence of biological agents of RG 3 must be expected at any time in the event of contact with animals or contact with animal excretions and secretions (milk, birth fluid) (examples of infectious agents can be found in Annex 1 Table 1 TRBA 230).

In people with regular contact with farm animals, wild animals and pets, colonization with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) possible. A mere colonization with MRSA does not pose an acute risk to those affected, but should be reported during doctor visits or hospital stays. Regardless of antibiotic resistance, even the smallest skin damage or wounds can lead to deep skin and tissue infections.

Biological agents also occur in agriculture and forestry. Employers are required to prepare a risk assessment, for which they can also seek expert assistance. To expand their expertise, AGCT Consulting GmbH offers " AGCT Specialist Courses in Accordance with the German BioStoffV ." In addition, expert preparation of a risk assessment (protection levels 1-2) can also be offered.