Propagation of bioaerosols from the building drainage system; cross-transmission, detection and prevention

The building drainage system is one of only a small number of engineered fluid carrying systems which interconnects all parts of a building. As such, it permits air propagation throughout the entire building. Protection between the pathogen–laden sewer system and habitable space relies on the water seal within fixture traps (or U-bends). This water seal is vulnerable to a number of potential threats, such as naturally occurring system pressure fluctuations and evaporation, which can compromise the integrity of the seal and present a potential cross-transmission route for aerosolised pathogens. Investigations into the potential for pathogen cross-transmission via Bioaerosols in the building drainage network, is discussed, and further details of a series of experiments previously reported are presented. Transmission routes are investigated using a transient airflow analysis methodology identifying directional airflow movement patterns within the system. Recent research on the isolation of Bioaerosols in hospital building drainage systems using Polymerase Chain Reaction techniques is reported also, confirming that the network is a pathogen reservoir and conducive to the production of aerosolised pathogen-laden air streams. Physical observations of empty fixture trap seals in a number of building drainage networks confirms there is potential for cross-transmission of aerosolised pathogens via the building drainage network and a potential threat to the health of inhabitants.