Federal workplace safety agency recognizes sewage sludge disease
July 14, 2008
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Carola Vyhnak
URBAN AFFAIRS REPORTER
People who contend that sludge contains hazardous chemicals and has intact biological components appear to have an ally in the federal government.
More than 10 years ago, "sewage sludge disease" was recognized as a potentially fatal illness.
One of a group of diseases known as extrinsic allergic alveolitis, it is triggered by intense or prolonged exposure to animal and vegetable dust, according to the federally funded Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety.
The centre's website says that sewage sludge disease is triggered by the body's natural defensive reactions and is associated with sewage waste that has been heat-treated.
An acute attack would include symptoms such as: fever, muscular aches and a general, unwell feeling. These symptoms are accompanied by tightness in the chest, a dry cough, and shortness of breath.
A lower level of exposure is marked by coughing, shortness of breath, sweating, sore throat, headache, and nausea.
The disease can become chronic with both types of exposure. And chronic cases can lead to permanent lung damage and even death.
Prevention includes dust control, protective clothing and good ventilation.
Toronto Star
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