Research Results to Enhance Management of Bacillus anthracis Contaminated Wash Water
Citation:
RATLIFF, K. Research Results to Enhance Management of Bacillus anthracis Contaminated Wash Water. U.S. EPA Office of Research and Development, Washington, DC, EPA/600/S-19/067, 2019.
Impact/Purpose:
Following a B. anthracis contamination incident, wash water will likely be generated during site remediation activities, potentially through direct use of liquids in decontamination methods, from equipment decontamination, or through washing personal protective equipment (PPE) onsite. This technical brief summarizes research related to managing and treating large volumes of decontamination wash water from a Bacillus anthracis (anthrax) contamination incident. Large volumes of water could be generated during decontamination activities, and this water could have high levels of particulate and/or organic matter that cause a higher decontaminant demand and pose unique challenges. The brief summarizes sampling, analysis, and treatment methods for these difficult water matrices.
Description:
This technical brief summarizes research conducted in EPA's Homeland Security Research Program to support development of technologies and practices for managing and treating decontamination wash water resulting from a Bacillus anthracis (anthrax) contamination incident. This brief helps address an identified partner need to understand treatment and disposal options for large amounts of biological agent contaminated water.