Anthrax testing, in the construction and demolition sectors, is an important part of reducing the exposure to a potentially fatal disease. The spores which cause anthrax can be found or disturbed when working on certain types of land or structures, so anthrax testing is key to determine the risk of exposure.
For example, these may include historic buildings where anthrax-infected animal hair was used in plaster, or old land where there could be soil contamination. To learn more about anthrax and why testing is important, carry on reading!
What is Anthrax?
Anthrax is a serious and occasionally deadly disease that is rare in the UK, caused by the bacteria, Bacillus anthracis. It is transmitted to humans from animals that have consumed contaminated water or food, or inhaled a large number of spores. These spores can subsequently infect the body through a number of different ways, including through: inhalation, ingestion or exposed wounds and cuts.
Why Would I Need Anthrax Testing
According to the Health & Safety Executive (HSE), there have been no recorded cases of pulmonary or intestinal anthrax in construction workers.
However, while skin-related anthrax infections are also relatively rare, it’s still important to be aware of the heightened risks of working on sites such as:
-
- Any older building where animal hair has been used to help bind plaster
- Areas where soil contamination may have occurred, like burial grounds or tanneries
If there is any uncertainty about the presence of anthrax in the working environment, it is key to arrange testing from competent professionals, especially where there is potential for anthrax in plaster.
What Does Anthrax Testing Involve?
The HSE recommends identification of possible contaminated sites and subsequent control and review of working practices in these areas.
Because anthrax can enter the human body via inhalation or exposed wounds and cuts as previously mentioned, it’s important to protect your workers, tradespeople and visitors from potential exposure.
An experienced and qualified anthrax disease specialist will be able to handle everything, including:
-
- Visual inspections of your building(s) and surrounding site
- Identification of higher risk areas
- Safe collection of samples for lab analysis to confirm/rule out presence of anthrax spores
- Advice on next steps
Be sure to engage a professional, rather than jeopardising the health of yourself and others by attempting to establish the presence of anthrax.
Need To Know More About Anthrax Testing?
If you’re worried about exposure to anthrax infection, or simply planning some work that may require testing before starting, support is available from Reddish Vale.
You can discuss your current or future project and how to proceed in a safe manner by speaking to a member of our team today!
