Preventive measures to reduce bioaerosol exposure during refuse collection

The aim of the present research project was to investigate and evaluate technical and organisational measures targeted at bioaerosol reduction during the refuse collection and to determine the exposure of refuse collectors to dust, fungi and endotoxins in an on-the-job situation with different vehicle technologies and states of hygiene. The following technical factors were found to influence the bioaerosol concentration at the refuse collector's workplace: compaction method, lifting device control, rave rail height, hopper depth, design of intake area and dust interception. For instance, notably higher total fungal counts were recorded with rotating drum compaction than with packer plate compaction. A hinged lid closure at the lifting device in conjunction with a suction unit induced a positive effect. In addition, the automatic lifting system had a positive influence on rear-end loaders, as did loading operation control from the closed driver's cab on side loaders. Regular internal and external high-pressure cleaning of the lifting device at intervals of not more than 14 days is recommended as a basic rule for vehicle hygiene.