2026 California REHS Disaster Management Complete Practice Test

Disposal of human waste by burial aims to limit pathogen survival and protect soil and water. The recommended method sets a minimum depth of two feet, ensuring the waste stays well below the surface to reduce exposure to people and animals and to minimize runoff or groundwater infiltration. Spreading lime over the burial helps raise pH and dry the material, which speeds inactivation of many pathogens and helps control odors. Posting a sign at the site communicates that waste has been buried there, helping prevent disturbance and alerting others to avoid digging in that spot. Using a shallower depth (one foot) increases the risk of exposure and contamination, while two feet as a minimum depth balances safety with practicality, with deeper burial being acceptable if conditions require.