The sources and factors by which poultry house dust and gases are generated, the levels encountered and their effect on the respiratory health of stockmen are reviewed. Although exposure to aerial pollutants in intensive housing can lead to respiratory disease, the mechanisms involved in this process are poorly understood. These mechanisms and the dynamics of the micro-environment involved in the generation of dust and gases from poultry litter are discussed. From the limited knowledge available, only partially effective methods of dust and gas control are possible.
