Human Health Risk Assessment for the Use and Disposal of Sewage Sludge: Benefits of Regulation.

摘要

In support of EPA's Office of Water Abt Associates Inc. has analyzed the baseline risks to human health for the general population and for a highly exposed individual (HEI) from the use and disposal of municipal sludge. Human health risks are estimated for both the general population and a HEI associated with current use and disposal practices for sewage sludge. Three methods of sewage sludge use or disposal are considered: (1) incineration, (2) land application, and (3) surface disposal. For each management practice considered, the authors use mathematical models and available data to estimate human exposure and risk. Key data include estimated concentrations of pollutants in sewage sludge; local geology, hydrology, and weather; the locations and behavior of human populations; and dose-response data for each pollutant of concern.