ILO Home
Go to the home page
Site map | Contact us Français | Español

CISDOC database

Document ID (ISN)58565
CIS number 92-1370
ISSN - Serial title 0339-6517 - Documents pour le médecin du travail
Year 1990
Convention or series no. Fiche médico-technique No.34
Author(s) Altmeyer N., Abadia G., Schmitt S., Leprince A.
Title Microbiological risks and work in waste water purification plants
Original title Risques microbiologiques et travail dans les stations d'épuration des eaux usées [in French]
Bibliographic information 4th Quarter 1990, No.44, p.373-388. Illus. 100 ref.
Abstract The risk of infection with work in water purification plants (biological treatment) is the subject of numerous investigations. While the theoretical risk may be disturbing, the actual risk may be less clear, as shown by this literature survey, based on observations made by a group of industrial physicians. The principles of waste water treatment are first explained, followed by a description of the microbiological risks in biological-treatment purification plants: theoretical risks, routes of contamination, actual risks (digestive, respiratory and skin diseases, leptospirosis, sewer workers' syndrome). A summary of the data collected is presented, along with preventive measures concerning all types of risks found in purification plants. An annex shows a medical follow-up sheet.
Descriptors (primary) water treatment; France; microorganisms; sewage treatment; water and sanitation services; biological hazards; sewage
Descriptors (secondary) falls of persons; work in sewers; respiratory system; digestive system; noise; bacteria; viruses; fungi; fire, explosions; leptospirosis; toxic substances; sludge; skin; data sheet; corrosive substances
Document type F - Information notes, codes of practice, standards
Country / State or ProvinceFrance
Subject(s) Toxic and dangerous substances
Broad subject area(s) Biological hazards
Browse category(ies) Bacterial and parasitic diseases
Water and sanitation services
Biological hazards