I haven't started composting yet and was just wondering if there were any reported health risks associated with it. I've heard about a possible link between composting and aspergillosis?

There have been studies on a possible link between aspergillosis and people exposed to high concentrations of aspergillus fumigatus, which can cause it, such as those that work at large scale composting facilities and those that live nearby. Aspergillus fumigatus is classed as an opportunistic pathogen because it will only infect an individual whose immune system does not work properly.

Based of the available evidence and following standard practical recommendations for home composting, the risk of exposure to elevated levels of bioaerosols containing aspergillus, is regarded as extremely low. Reactions to any heightened levels of exposure appear to be limited to individuals with low immune systems.

If you have any concerns about your own exposure the following is recommended:

• Use a compost bin rather than a loose heap for making compost.
  
• Ensure that the material in the bin is kept moist (60% -70% moisture). High moisture levels reduce the potential release of dust particles and bioaerosols.
  
• Maintain a ‘cool composting process’ i.e. adding only small quantities of material at a time to the bin.
  
• Don’t turn or agitate the compost to aerate it. Instead, ensure that material is sufficiently aerated by always adding an appropriate mixture of materials (green and browns) to the bin.
  

Additional steps can also be taken by using a dust mask or other respiratory equipment when handling the material or removing the compost from the bin. When you are handling the compost,  it is also good practice to position yourself up-wind from the material so that any dust or bioaerosols released are blown away from you.