Survival of Faecal Indicator Micro-Organisms in Refuse/Sludge Composting Using the Aerated Static Pile System

Abstract

Four compost piles, employing the aerated static pile system were studied with respect to pathogen inactivation. This was evaluated by means of the commonly used indicator organisms: E. coli, faecal streptococci and salmonellae. Samples from three separate sites within the piles were used, which had experienced different temperature/time profiles during composting. All three sites were located in the section of the pile just below the cover layer. E. coli, and faecal streptococci were reduced from approximately 10 7 org/g.ww to less than 102 org/g.ww.