Oct. 22, 2014 -- In a recent conference call with the American Water Works Association (AWWA) and other major water organizations, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shared that it has prepared and is conducting an expedited internal review of an interim guidance on wastewater worker safety and the inactivation of the Ebola virus by wastewater treatment processes.
The guidance -- Interim Guidance for Workers Handling Untreated Sewage from Ebola Cases in the United States -- will address basic hygiene practices and personal protective equipment (PPE) use and disposal actions that should be taken.
Specifically, the guidance will provide guidance and protocols for workers who perform sewer maintenance, construction workers who repair or replace live sewers, plumbers, and workers who clean portable toilets.
Officials from the CDC, the lead federal agency for Ebola containment and prevention, said the guidance could be released as soon as late October. Also, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health has provided some general guidance (available here) on workplace safety and health related to Ebola.
See also:
"CDC Examines Impact of Water Loss on Communities"
"Educational Course: Hazard Communication"
About AWWA
Established in 1881, the American Water Works Association is the largest nonprofit, scientific and educational association dedicated to managing and treating water, the world’s most important resource. With approximately 50,000 members, AWWA provides solutions to improve public health, protect the environment, strengthen the economy and enhance our quality of life. For more information, visit www.awwa.org.
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