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Evaluation of a Thermal Drying Process at a Wastewater Treatment Plant
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2018/05/01
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Source: Cincinnati, OH: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, HHE 2014-0052-3320, 2018 May; :1-21
[PDF-1.60 MB]
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Description:The Health Hazard Evaluation Program received a request from employees at a wastewater treatment plant who were concerned about exposures to thermally dried sewage sludge. In particular, employees were concerned about odors, upper airway irritation, and dust exposures from the newly-installed thermal dryer. We reviewed the process flow and thermal dryer operations, collected air samples and bulk samples for endotoxins and silica, conducted confidential health interviews with employees, and reviewed records. Exposures to endotoxins and silica were low. Dust and odors were detected throughout the facility. We surveyed employees about work-related symptoms related to working with a new thermal sewer sludge dryer. The most common health symptoms reported by employees were eye irritation, coughing, nasal congestion, and headaches. Strong odors were reported by employees during the treatment process. We observed potential fire hazards in the thermal dryer area because dryer conditions led to overheating of sludge and the presence of combustible dust. We observed that respirators were not always used, maintained, or stored correctly. In addition, correct use of other personal protective equipment such as gloves and safety glasses was inconsistent. We recommended the company work with the thermal dryer manufacturer to ensure that the equipment is working according to design and all safety mechanisms are operational; ensure that respirators are properly worn, maintained, and stored, and employees are trained on how to use them; and improve the personal protective equipment use and compliance.
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Pages in Document:28 pdf pages
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Contributor:Booher, Donald E.;Galloway, Ellen;Moore, Kevin;Oza, Aalok;Watts, Shawna;
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NIOSHTIC Number:20051652
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NTIS Accession Number:PB2018-101260
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Citation:NIOSH [2018]. Evaluation of a thermal drying process at a wastewater treatment plant.;By Burton NC, West C, Gibbins J. Cincinnati, OH: U.S. Department of Health and;Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for;Occupational Safety and Health, Health Hazard Evaluation Report 2014-0052-3320,;
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Federal Fiscal Year:2018
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Peer Reviewed:False
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Resource Number:HHE-2014-0052-3320
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