Does anyone have any information about excavating in soils potentially contaminated with Tuberculosis? I checked the HISTARCH Archives, contacted the state health department, and did some research on the internet (American Lung Assoc., and a couple medical websites). Unfortunately, I haven't received any particularly reassuring answers. Essentially I've been told that we're *probably* not at risk, and that we're *probably* okay as long as we're not in an enclosed space. (Are shovel tests considered, "an enclosed space"?) I'd like something a bit more definitive than "probably." 

What I'm wondering is how long does TB survive in the soil? (This project is in northern Minnesota where the winters are VERY cold - 20 to 40 degrees below 0 is not uncommon.) Could a crew member contract TB by breathing in the dust raised from screening, getting dirt in their eyes or mouth, or from digging in a relatively small hole? 

Thanks for the help!
Amanda Gronhovd

____________________________

Amanda Gronhovd
Principal Investigator
Summit Envirosolutions, Inc.
1217 Bandana Blvd North
St. Paul, MN 55108
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651-842-4202
651-647-0888 (fax)