Tennessee Wastewater Operator Practice Exam

What happens if the concentration of pathogens is too high in biosolids before land application?

1. It is safe for immediate use

2. It can lead to regulatory penalties

3. It must be treated further

4. It can be used for animal feed

The correct answer is: It must be treated further

When the concentration of pathogens in biosolids is excessively high before land application, it is essential that the biosolids undergo further treatment. This step is necessary to reduce pathogen levels to a safe and acceptable standard for land application. The presence of high pathogen concentrations poses risks to both human health and the environment, as it can contaminate soil and water resources and lead to the spread of disease. Regulatory requirements often stipulate specific levels of pathogens permissible in biosolids intended for land application, and if these levels are exceeded, additional treatment methods such as anaerobic digestion, composting, or chemical stabilization may be required to ensure safe use. Thus, the requirement for further treatment is critical to mitigate risks and comply with safety standards for biosolid applications in agriculture or landscaping.