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STATE OF THE ART IN TREATMENT AND SURVIVAL OF PATHOGENS IN BIOSOLIDS
Citation:
Reimers, R. S., K. B. Fitzmorris, J E. Smith* Jr., G. Boyd, AND D. D. Bowman. STATE OF THE ART IN TREATMENT AND SURVIVAL OF PATHOGENS IN BIOSOLIDS. Epstein, E., Vesilind, A. (ed.), JOURNAL OF RESIDUALS SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY. DEStech Publications, Inc, Lancaster, PA, 1(2):91-102.
Description:
This paper discusses the pathogen/stability concerns for municipal residuals and the applicability of current sludge treatment processes to control health risks potentially associated with the use or disposal of these residuals. In recent years, there has been a rise in public concern due to the possible impact of residuals on the quality of life and environment. This concern caused the National Academy of Sciences to review pathogen/stability impacts and consider the human health protectiveness of the existing 40 CFR Part 503 regulations. This paper also elucidates concerns with respect to potential risks and their reduction with biosolids processing. Existing treatment technologies can be fine-tuned to control pathogen releases or spreading. In addition, the utilized stabilization processes must be well controlled and treatment processes must be cost effective if wide scale implementation is to be realized.
The efficacy of current treatment alternatives has been shown by past extensive research efforts to meet the guidelines set forth by the 503 regulations. Questions lie with the degree of compliance with the regulations by sludge treatment facilities. There is a need for the development of better, more convenient indicator organisms when looking at the process efficiency. Overall, the field of sludge treatment is a dynamic cone. As new technologies become available, and regulations truly reflect research findings, the health of the public will be better protected, taking into account potential real and perceived liabilities.
