ABSTRACT
Biosolids are the only beneficial waste that is regulated by the United States Environmental Protection Agency ( US EPA). These regulations pertain to land application of biosolids, including compost and other forms of transformed biosolids materials. States must adhere to the USEPA regulations at a minimum. State agencies may impose more stringent regulations or guidelines. Several agencies in the United States, Canada and Europe have chosen to issue guidelines rather than regulations. Often documents issued as guidelines are used as regulations. US federal regulations dealing with land application of biosolids falls under the jurisdiction of the USEPA. Enforcement is through USEPA regions, with the aid of state regulatory agencies. Those states with delegation have regulatory responsibility. In addition to pollutant limits, the 503 rule also required pathogen and vector attraction reduction criteria. The basis for the 503 pathogen requirements are provided in the USEPA document Technical Support Document for Reduction of Pathogens and Vector Attraction in Sewage Sludge.
