Department Spotlight: Wash Bay Team

At Tosh, our Wash Bay Department is split between two locations: the Parker Wash Bay and the Henry Wash Bay. Across both sites, we have dedicated Wash Bay Technicians and Driers who play a critical role in maintaining cleanliness, biosecurity, and overall health standards across our operations.

What We Do
The Wash Bay Department is essential to the daily operation and biosecurity of Tosh. At the Parker Wash Bay, our team is responsible for washing approximately 30 livestock trailers each day—trailers that transport market hogs to JBS in Louisville from Sunday through Friday. Every trailer is meticulously cleaned using soap and disinfectant after every trip to prevent the spread of disease between farms. In addition to surface cleaning, trailers are also heated to 130 degrees for 15 minutes to ensure any remaining bacteria is effectively eliminated.

Meanwhile, the Henry Wash Bay handles trailers that transport baby pigs and sows. By keeping these separate from market hog trailers, we help protect the health of our sow farms. This location operates 24/7 to ensure constant cleanliness and readiness. In addition to livestock trailers, Henry Wash Bay is responsible for washing a wide range of Tosh equipment—from forklifts to combines—and also ensures that any trucks picking up feed ingredients from food-grade facilities meet strict FDA cleaning standards.

Our History and Evolution
Prior to 2015, all equipment and trailers were washed exclusively at the Henry Wash Bay. As our operations grew, it became clear we needed additional resources. Construction on the Parker Wash Bay began in 2014 and was completed in 2015. This expansion allowed us to better allocate time, reduce the risk of cross-contamination, and provide more thorough care for our equipment and livestock.

Team Dynamics and Culture
What sets our team apart is our reliance on and support for one another. When someone is out—whether for illness or family needs—others are quick to step up and share the load. This kind of teamwork doesn’t just happen by chance; it’s the result of mutual respect and shared goals. We’re proud of the tight-knit culture we’ve built, where people genuinely care about their coworkers and are willing to lend a hand when needed.

Life Outside the Bay
Nearly every member of our team is a father, and family is a strong common bond. During breaks or shift changes, it’s common to hear stories about our kids and share laughs and parenting advice. That family-first mindset helps reinforce the sense of community within the department.

Proud Accomplishments
One of our proudest achievements is the constant improvement in sanitation and organization. Keeping our trailers and equipment clean isn’t just about appearances—it’s a frontline defense in herd health. Clean trailers mean fewer risks of disease, and clean equipment means better performance and maintenance longevity. Every team member takes pride in making sure Tosh’s equipment looks its best—sometimes even washing the same pieces daily to ensure they meet our standards.

Growth and Experience
What began with just four team members—two on days and two on nights—has now grown into a team of 12 full-time and 2 part-time employees. One of our most respected team members, Florencio Alvarez, has been with us since the very beginning. For nearly 14 years, he has worked tirelessly to ensure Tosh’s equipment is spotless and ready to go. He is a true cornerstone of the department and a testament to the dedication our team brings every day.

Looking Ahead
We’re actively planning for future expansions that will improve accessibility and efficiency across our operations. As Tosh continues to grow, so too will our department’s capabilities and responsibilities.

Final Thoughts
The Wash Bay team might not always be front and center, but our role is vital. We ensure the health of the herd, the safety of the food supply, and the professionalism of Tosh’s