Our laboratory team routinely analyzes biosolids, solids, and soils for various human pathogens and their indicators utilizing the US EPA Principal Biosolids Guidance Document: EPA/625/R-92/013.  We typically analyze for enteric viruses, Cryptosporidium and Giardia, helminth ova, and bacterial pathogens. We poses an USDA Foreign soils permit and can accept samples from international clients.  EPA has set rules and guidlines for the handling, disposal and analysis of biosolids. Detailed information can be found at EPA BIOSOLIDS

EPA Part 503 Biosolids Rule 

This compre­hensive, risk-based rule was first published in the Federal Register on February 19, 1993. It was enacted to protect public health and the environment from reasonably anticipated adverse effects of pollutants that may be present in biosolids that are used or disposed. Much of the rule was based on the results of risk assess­ments that were scientifically conducted to identify what, if any, risks were associated with the use or disposal of biosolids. 

Biosolids are the primarily organic solid product yielded by municipal wastewater treatment processes. Application of treated biosolids to land is a beneficial crop nutrient, soil conditioner and recyclable resource. However, if proper treatment and use criteria are not met, there is a risk of releasing pathogens into the environment.  

Subpart D of the Part 503 regulation defines the requirement for biosolids to be classified as either Class A or B with respect to pathogens. The classification of biosolids prior to land application provides a means to protect public health and the environment. 

Class A biosolids are highly treated and of exceptional quality. They contain negligible levels of pathogens and metals and meet strict vector attraction reduction requirements

Class B biosolids are treated, but still contain detectible levels of pathogens. There are buffer requirements, public access, and crop harvesting restrictions for virtually all forms of Class B biosolids

Routine monitoring of biosolids is essential to ensure quality requirements and public safety.  Environmental Regulations and Technology: Control of Pathogens and Vector Attraction in Sewage Sludge (PDF) is a publication that provides useful guidance for successful compliance with 40 CFR Part 503 Subpart D. This subpart is the regulatory backbone of Class A and Class B pathogen requirements discussed in this Web site as well as the foundation for the Pathogen Equivalency Committee. EPA/625/R-92/013 Principal Biosolids Guidance is a primary reference for regional, state, and local regulatory authorities and their constituents.

BCS Laboratories is accredited for and provides analysis of solids  and biosolids for various pathogens and microbial indicators. The methods follow EPA protocols. A list of EPA's Approved Clean Water Act Microbiological Methods for Wastewater and Sewage Sludge can be found by clicking on this link

Fecal Coliform Analysis EPA 1681: MPN method for analysis of solids / soils

Salmonella in Sewage Sludge (Biosolids) by EPA Method 1682: MPN / Modified Semisolid Rappaport-Vassiliadis (MSRV) Medium

Fecal Strep Enumeration by  Standard Method SM 9230B

Total Coliform Enumeration by Standard Method MPN SM 9221B

Somatic Coliphage and Male specific Coliphage analysis

Enterococci by Membrane Filtration Using EPA 1600

Escherichia coli (E. coli) by Membrane Filtration Using EPA1603