Protection recommended for Class B biosolids
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recently recommended practices to prevent the risk of disease among workers who are exposed on the job to biosolids used to fertilize agricultural lands or mine reclamation sites.
Biosolids are sewage sludge treated to significantly reduce or eliminate concentrations of bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. At a level of treatment known as "Class B," some microorganisms may still be present.
Under environmental rules, access for the general public to areas where Class B biosolids have been applied is restricted for varying time periods up to one year, allowing time for remaining microorganisms to die off naturally. However, workers may be occupationally exposed in handling, applying, or disturbing the material during this restricted period.
"Workers are the individuals most likely to be exposed to biosolids, but practical steps can be taken to limit exposures and prevent the possible risk of disease transmission," NIOSH Director Linda Rosenstock, MD, MPH, said in releasing the guidelines.
"In the absence of definitive information about the extent of risk to workers, our recommendations are based on good public health practice," she stated.
NIOSH makes these recommendations:
- Engineering controls and work practices should be used as first measures to prevent worker exposures to Class B biosolids during
and after field application.
Examples include mixing Class B biosolids thoroughly into the soil where feasible; providing sealed, air-conditioned, filtered-air-recirculation cabs for heavy equipment used on the site; and avoiding disturbance of the material during the restricted period.
- If engineering controls are not feasible at a Class B biosolid site, or while engineering controls are being installed or maintained, personal protective equipment for workers should be provided and required.
Equipment may include goggles, splash-proof face shields, respirators, liquid-repellent coveralls, and gloves.
- Hand-washing stations with clean water and mild soap should be provided, and cabs on heavy equipment should be cleaned of residual mud or dust after each use.
- Employers should provide periodic training about standard hygiene practices on the job.
[The recommendations are made in the NIOSH Hazard ID titled Workers Exposed to Class B Biosolids During and After Field Application, Department of Health and Human Services (NIOSH) Publication No. 2000-158. NIOSH Hazard IDs provide concise information and recommendations for preventing illnesses or injuries in the workplace. The Hazard ID, along with other NIOSH documents, can be ordered through the NIOSH information number: (800) 35-NIOSH or (800) 356-4674. The document is also available on the NIOSH Web site: www.cdc.gov/niosh/hidlist.html.]
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