information sheet

reprocessing to manage a high E-coli result

E-coli is a naturally occurring bacteria that is used as an ‘indicator’ species. The idea is that high levels
of E-coli may mean that high levels of other more harmful bacteria may have survived the composting or
fermentation process.
The most effective way to ensure E-coli levels in the finished compost batches are within acceptable thresholds
is to maintain the correct composting process. This means keeping piles wet and covered and monitored for
temperature. It also means spraying with the correct dosages and using non- chlorinated or de-chlorinated water
during the composting process.
Even with good management of the composting process, it will not be possible to eliminate all E-coli bacteria and
there will always be the chance that a grab sample will show a poor result.
If a sample returns an unsatisfactory result ie more than <100 MPN per gram (dry weight), the following remedial
process should be undertaken:
The pile will be re-covered and allowed to incubate for a further 7 days. After 7 days, new samples will be taken
and the sample will be re tested.
If a similar result is found, the pile will be turned completely and re-inoculated.

Process for re-inoculation:

} Prepare inoculants as per normal spraying (see table 1)
} For each litre of inoculant, add 1 litre of molasses (see table 1)
} Spray diluted inoculant and molasses mix throughout pile.
} Add water to the pile until the total moisture level reaches 40% of the weight of the pile
} Recover the pile and allow to incubate for a further 7 days
} After 7 days, re-test pile for E-coli. Make sure testing methodology prevents cross contamination.
} If there is still E-coli contamination after this (unlikely), the pile should be disposed of at an appropriate facility.

Table 1 Dilution Rates

Feedstock Start Seeding Molasses Water Quantity of

culture agent Feedstock

Composting with 1 litre 1litre 2 litres 10 litres For every 10m3

green waste (cubic meters)

Composting with 2 litres 2 litres 4 litres 10 litres For every 10m3

sewage sludge (cubic meters)

For updates and more information on the Groundswell project go to: www.groundswellproject.blogspot.com

Written by Simone Dilkara, 2010. Graphic design/illustration by Carolyn Brooks The Groundswell Project
was assisted by the NSW
This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Government through its
Attribution 3.0 Unported License and can be reproduced Environmental Trust
providing the Groundswell project is acknowledged as
the original source.