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Reaerosolization of Bacillus anthracis Spores by Low-Technology Remediation Methods when Utilized in a Contaminated Indoor Environment
Citation:
Archer, J. AND K. McConkey. Reaerosolization of Bacillus anthracis Spores by Low-Technology Remediation Methods when Utilized in a Contaminated Indoor Environment. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC, EPA/600/R-18/326, 2018.
Impact/Purpose:
The primary objective of this study was to identify and evaluate low-technology (low-tech) remediation methods that could be used to reduce surface contamination while minimizing reaerosolization of contaminants during routine in-home cleaning of contaminated surfaces, following the release of a biological agent in an urban area. Biological contamination from a wide-area release could extend indoors to homes and businesses via migration, tracking or reaerosolization. This study combined a literature review with exploratory experiments to evaluate common household cleaning activities that could be effective following biological agent contamination. The impact of this research and future research is the development of risk-based recommendations for low-tech remediation options that can be used by response personnel as well as homeowners and business owners.
Description:
In the event of a release of a biological agent in an urban area, a wide range of surfaces may be contaminated, including indoor surfaces in homes and businesses. This research was conducted to identify and evaluate low-technology (low-tech) remediation methods that could be used to reduce surface contamination while minimizing the reaerosolization of contaminants during routine in-home cleaning of contaminated surfaces.