Selecting a Class A Physical/Chemical Treatment for Biosolids

Saturday, October 18, 8:30 am – 5:00 pm
1 day, 0.6 CEUs

In June of 2001, the U.S. EPA had an international workshop where 150 scientists, engineers and professionals discussed the concerns with pathogens and emerging pathogens.  Concurrently, at the request of U.S. EPA, the National Academy of Sciences assessed the risk and impact of pathogens and toxins during land application of biosolids.  This report was released in July of 2002.  The results of these studies along with many other meetings and reports has caused a refinement in the policy and regulations with respect both Class A and B disinfected biosolids, sitting regulations of Class B land application and refinement of risk based regulations for both organics and metals.  Land application and reuse of treated biosolids creates potential for impact on the environment and human health.  In order to protect public health and the environment from pathogens, federal and state agencies require monitoring and assessment of pathogens, abiotic parameters, nutrients and indicator organisms.  As a result, a better understanding of disinfection and stabilization is necessary for enhancing the marketability and safety for the beneficial use of biosolids. This workshop will address these issues related to emerging pathogens, stressor causing disinfection, potential surrogate organisms, the concerns related to stabilization, and the recent checklist protocols developed by the PEC. Three examples of innovative physical /chemical disinfection process will be presented with recent field testing advised by EPA PEC. A final workshop exercise will be conducted by the participants.

Co-chairs
Kari Fitzmorris, Georgia Southern University
Robert Reimers, Tulane University

Speakers
Suresh Pillai, Texas A&M University
Mark Meckes, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Bethany Acquisto, Daigler Engineering, P.C.
James Smith, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Jorja DuFresne, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
John Willis, Brown and Caldwell