METHODS FOR EVALUATION OF MICROBIOLOGICAL CONTAMINATION OF AIR ? A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

This study presents the fundamental methods used for sampling and study of bioaerosols emitted to the atmosphere near wastewater treatment plants. Particular attention was paid to the literature reviews, which cite numerous reports regarding microbiological contamination of air on the area of wastewater treatment plants and in their vicinity. Due to the fact that each method of air sampling is different, it is challenging to compare the results obtained by different authors who study air using different methods. Currently, the most common are volumetric methods of air sampling. In the available literature there are reports on the use of various media for the cultivation of the same microorganisms. In the attached tables lists the studied groups of microorganisms, the used media, temperature and time of cultivation as well as the authors of reports, which discuss these cultivation methods. The reason for such situation is usually associated with the lack of standardized regulations applicable in specific countries, in all countries or e.g. within the European Union, which would allow for an equal evaluation of microbial air contamination.