Occupational Health & Safety

Biography

Biography: Vanessa Dion Dupont

Abstract

Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are recognized as being important sources of microbial aerosols. Numerous saprophytic, opportunistic and pathogenic microorganisms occur in the raw wastewater of all types of treatment plants. Consequently, the composition of these bioaerosols can be very diversified, which may affect workers in several ways. In addition, many processing steps are now performed in closed buildings to not disturb the surrounding population. This can lead to a greater accumulation or persistence of bioaerosols in such places. Even if studies revealed a significant association between exposure to bioaerosols and the incidence of respiratory and enteric illness, our knowledge for these specific environment are still poorly documented. This project has been set up to complete the information and provide a better understanding of these workplaces and their impact on worker's health. A number of WWTPs will be investigated to document the relationship between the treatment steps, the techniques used, the engineering data and the impact of seasons on the composition of aerosols. This study will describe the bacterial community to bring new information regarding the presence of respiratory and gastrointestinal pathogens in the air. The workers exposure level and the frequency of health problems among them will also be studied. Built on the most innovative approaches in the study of bioaerosols, this project will allow a better understanding of the exposure risk and will provide possible solution to implement better prevention and control measures to make this workplace safer.