Industrial

For over 5000 years tanneries have existed across the world. Historically they were situated on the outskirts of towns as they were known for being an odoriferous trade, using urine and animal faeces for the process of tanning hides. Animal faeces contain enzymes that assisted preparation of collagen in the hide. The urine was used to clean the leather. Fortunately modern processing has removed the need to use such ingredients and any unpleasant smells are likely to be from hides and skins stored incorrectly or as a result of a mistake in the tanning process. The modern day tannery has strict transport and storage requirements. This ensures hides and skins are kept fresh and healthy, resulting in quality leather.

Tanning changes the chemistry of leather fibres, making it difficult for bacterial enzymes and fungi to break down these fibres, making the leather durable. Tannins, acidic chemical compounds, brought the tanning industry a long way from practices in the 1500s. Currently chrome tanning is mostly regarded as the most efficient and effective tanning agent but this industry is still evolving, finding new ways to become more environmentally friendly.

Wool scouring is the process of washing and cleaning wool to extract grease. Wool grease is secreted from the sebaceous glands of a sheep. This grease adheres to the wool fibres during the growth cycle. Wool grease gives wool a waxy feel and protects sheep from various weather conditions.

Greasy wool is removed during shearing and then transported to a Wool Scourer. The raw wool is coated with grease, mud, thorns and seeds. Vegetable matter and other non-wool contaminants are removed from the wool without damaging the fibres. Raw wool is then passed through the scouring line which consists of a number of large bowls containing biodegradable detergents. Wool grease and other contaminants are removed. Excess moisture is removed and the wool is dried in a strict temperature controlled environment. Scoured wool is tested and then sent for external certification before being pressed and packed.

The wool grease removed in the scouring process is collected, cleaned and prepared for sale. Wool grease is used in the production of lanolin.

Cleaning and disinfecting are imperative in livestock farming. Cleaning and disinfection products for animal housings need to be effective in cleaning the dirtiest surfaces yet should have no impact on animal health. A clear purpose is needed before choosing a cleaning or disinfectant product. Agents used for virus control would differ to one used to get rid of other pathogens. Modern housing with high density and high productivity are at risk of increases in infection. Thorough and frequent cleaning with specifically adapted disinfection procedures can assist in preventing or breaking disease cycles.

Stress from calving can cause cows to have a decreased immune function. Coupled with underdeveloped immune systems of new calves, this is a critical time to ensure reduction in exposure to pathogens.