WISH has issued “Information Note 23”, providing guidance on the control of bioaerosols which are a complex mixture of bacteria, fungal spores, and other fragments of biological origin that are suspended in the air. When organic waste, such as domestic, garden and food waste is stored for any period, the naturally occurring microorganisms can multiply rapidly, especially in warm and moist environments. There is risk of bioaerosol generation during the handling and processing of organic waste, particularly during energetic activities. For further details, please refer to the Information Note 23 here.
Following a number of queries concerning the appropriate PPE and precautions to be observed whilst collecting bird carcasses as part of cleansing in streets, parks and public areas, WISH together with the HSE and others have published the attached position statement on this issue.
This statement will be kept under review during the current Avian Flu outbreak and will be changed should the circumstance so require.
Any questions or queries can be directed to info@wishforum.org.uk.
This guidance has been developed by the Waste Industry Health and Safety (WISH) Forum to help control safety and health risks in the waste management industry associated with occupational health issues. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) were consulted in the production of this publication. It endorses the sensible, proportionate, reasonable, and balanced advice on managing risk during waste-related activities as set out in the guidance.
This guidance is aimed as an introduction to health surveillance and as such has been written for operators, site managers, supervisors, and anyone else who wishes to improve their knowledge of the issue. The guidance is relevant to all sectors and sub-sectors of the waste and recycling industry
WASTE 30 Health surveillance for the waste and recycling industry Feb 2021