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July 28, 2000

NIOSH Recommends Protection for Workers Exposed to Class B Biosolids
Today, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) issued a Hazard ID titled, “Workers Exposed to Class B Biosolids During and After Field Application,” (DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2000-158). The four-page report provides recommendations which are intended to provide guidance to employers and workers to minimize occupational risks from Class B biosolids through the use of engineering controls, personal protective equipment and worker training. The report was issued based upon NIOSH's health hazard evaluation (HHE) of one Class B biosolids land application site, and a review of selected literature.

NIOSH emphasizes that the recommendations apply only to workers at Class B biosolids land application sites and notes that the recommendations are different from those required for the general public which are regulated by 40 CFR 503. Specifically, NIOSH recommends that:

  • 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 may 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-repellant 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 Hazard ID will be distributed to the membership via Regulatory Alert next week. A copy of the document is also available on the NIOSH web page at www.cdc.gov/niosh/hidlist.cfml. AMSA, along with the Water Environment Federation is still expected to meet with the Linda Rosenstock, Director of NIOSH, next week to discuss the implications of the guidance upon POTWs and biosolids reuse.

NIOSH's recommendations for biosolids workers seem to reaffirm the safety procedures already in place in biosolids programs across the country. AMSA may also be able to provide further technical advice on worker safety for site-specific variables and biosolids applications methods. NIOSH's recommendation for soil incorporation for Class B biosolids appears to be unjustified in view of science supporting EPA's Section 503 biosolids regulations. AMSA may also recommend that NIOSH consider the safety of workers exposed to animal manures.

AMSA members are encouraged to fill out and fax back the biosolids management mini-survey (sent out July 27) to the National Office. The survey will aid the National Office in demonstrating that protective procedures are already in place. There will be a conference call Monday with National Biosolids Partnership leadership to fully discuss these issues prior to the meeting with NIOSH officials.