Biological Risk Engineering Handbook

Book excerpt: This handbook discusses biological risk engineering, an extension of industrial hygiene that involves the assessment, control, and decontamination of indoor biological risks. The book synergizes the knowledge of experts in various fields, from law to toxicology, to provide a compendium of information for applying science to limit biological risk. Biological Risk Engineering Handbook: Infection Control and Decontamination begins with a microbiological dictionary, using pictures to illustrate the basic morphology and culture appearance of fungi, bacteria, viruses and prions. The text then reviews sampling and laboratory procedures to ensure coordination between sampling teams and their ultimate receiving laboratory. The contributing authors further examine interpretation issues associated with toxicological studies and risk assessment in hopes of providing further impetus for synergistic studies related to risk assessment and management of biohazardous agents. Other topics include ventilation design, infection control, and the use of biocides. The discussion of Legionella control and cooling towers serves as a case study of how design, maintenance, and decontamination should be a seamless process. The contributors also discuss patent utility requirements, insurance processes, laws, and current regulations, including a chapter on Tuberculosis that compares OSHA and CDC guidelines. Finally, security is addressed from the standpoint of both homeland security in the United States and the security of individual laboratories. From assessment methods to design options, Biological Risk Engineering Handbook presents state-of-the-art techniques and practices to measure, control, and contain human exposure to biological contaminants. With the concern of biological risk on the rise and the emerging fear today of biological warfare, this handbook allows you to move into the future armed with the information needed to limit this threat.