Analysis of airborne viable bacteria at solid-waste-processing facilities

A synopsis of aerobiological testing methodologies used by Midwest Research Institute during studies conducted for the Environmental Protection Agency is presented. The purpose of the programs was to determine relative levels of airborne bacteria and virus aerosols within and around waste handling facilities. The facilities tested were the St. Louis Refuse Processing Plant, the Browning Ferris/Raytheon Service Company Resource Recovery Plant (Houston), and three other types of waste handling facilities: an incinerator, a waste treatment plant, and a landfill. The report presents microbiological air sampling methodologies, sample handling procedures, and laboratory analysis methodologies. It also includes a general discussion of pertinent considerations with recommendations for future research, and an extensive bibliography.