Coronavirus (SARS CoV-2) & Biosolids/Residuals
Be safe at work, wear a mask, and social distance!
For current info: WEF website & resources from NEWEA.
Key Resources
“Tap Water is Safe, & “Toilets Are Not Trash Cans” - Value of Water Tools, April 2020
U. S. EPA Planning for Pandemic - Incident Action Checklist, March 26, 2020
“Composting in the Time of COVID-19,”a recorded webinar series, USCC: April 2020 (Part 1 with Dr. Pat Milner is key for biosolids composting)
World Health Organization: Summary of SARS-CoV-2 Surveillance in Wastewater/Sludge, August 7, 2020
Wastewater Surveillance (WBE) Resources from the Canadian Water Network
Coronavirus & Biosolids Fact Sheets:
Water Environment Association of Ontario (WEAO), March 31, 2020
Australian-NZ Biosolids Partnership, April 8, 2020
California Water Boards, April 21, 2020
IAWA, IWEA, & Central States WEA, May 12, 2020 en español
Water Environment Federation, Brisolara, et al. (top experts), very thorough, May 14, 2020
U.S. EPA Statement, May 2020:
“Do biosolids (treated sewage sludge) contain SARS-CoV-2 virus and can they be land applied safely?
Existing requirements and guidance help ensure that biosolids are processed, handled, and land-applied in a manner that minimizes the risk of exposure to pathogens, including viruses. We have no evidence that biosolids contain infectious SARS-CoV-2 virus when requirements under 40 CFR part 503 are met for Class A biosolids. Generally, pathogens may exist when requirements are met under 40 CFR part 503 for Class B biosolids, which is why EPA’s site restrictions that allow time for pathogen degredation should be followed for harvesting crops and turf, for grazing of animals, and public contact. All requirements under 40 CFR Part 503 should continue to be met. Additionally, per CDC’s Guidance for Controlling Potential Risks to Workers Exposed to Class B Biosolids, employers should prevent work-related illness by providing proper personal protective equipment (PPE) and supporting other health and safety practices for persons hauling and land applying biosolids. While no additional COVID-19–specific protections are recommended for the land application of biosolids, consider checking for advisories from your local health department.”