Anthrax Spores

Q We are involved in the demolition of some structures which may contain horsehair plaster. Can you suggest any references to standard methods of assessing the risks due to potential contamination with anthrax spores. For example how many tests would be required per 100 sq metres of plaster and what size of sample would be required.

A The risk is extremely low; no cases of infection from old plaster are known. Information in the measures to be taken are to be found in the English Heritage Technical Advice Note on Anthrax in Historic Plaster.