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Microbiology and wastes: Health risk assessment

Summary

Microbiological Risk Assessments (MRA) are the most difficult of the Health Risk Assessment (HRA) approaches. The specific nature of infectious pathogens (bacteria, viruses, fungi, prions, etc.) makes it difficult to apply the HRA approach historically designed for chemical agents. A literature search and analysis has been carried out to update knowledge on this subject and to identify avenues of research that could help to overcome the blocking points. An expert opinion completes the literature review. This document provides a didactic overview of the general concepts and specific features of MRE. The contribution and limitations of new techniques for detecting and quantifying biological agents (PCR, etc.) are explained. Examples of MRA in the waste sector are analysed in detail.

Keywords: Risques microbiologiques, évaluation des risques, EQRM, déchets, boues, ERS, PCR, puces ADN, Microbiological risk, risk assessment, QMRA, waste, sludge, heath risk assessment, PCR, DNA chips

Publication date: June 2011

Achievement: SEPIA-Santé

Reference: 09-0669/1A


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