Cleaning up messes from septic spills isn’t just gross, it’s dangerous. This guide is going to provide you with a deep dive into what you should know about sewage cleanup to not only keep safe but do a good job. The information in this guide applies to both minor backup events and major overflow events.
Understanding the Dangers of Sewage
Sewage is not just water fouled with soil and debris: it is a biohazard – loaded with bacteria, viruses and parasites. Exposure to sewage runoff can cause infection, skin irritation and breathing problems. Properly treating sewage-related damage to a building may require great care to avoid exposing occupants to contamination.
Initial Steps to Take
1. Ensure Safety First
Once you have identified a sewage spill, your first task is to secure the area. Evacuate everyone. Shut off electricity wherever possible to avoid shock or electrocution. If you can, ventilate the space to lower concentrations of airborne contaminants in the area.
2. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is Essential
Prepare yourself physically before getting to work: put on gloves, goggles, masks and waterproof boots. If the spill is extensive, put on a suit that covers your entire body so your skin doesn’t come in direct contact.
Assessing the Extent of the Damage
3. Evaluate the Source
The source of the sewage spill would need to be identified. Was it a blocked drain? A broken sewer? Or had it been caused by flooding? Depending on the cause, you might need to take different steps to clean it up and prevent future incidences.
4. Determine the Category of Water Damage
There are three categories of water damage:
Category 1: Clean water from a clean source like a broken pipe.
Category 2: Contaminated waste water with some contaminants, eg water from an overflow tank after a washing machine cycle.
Category 3: Black water. This has sewage in it or floodwater. This is gross, must be handled as special waste.
Effective Sewage Cleanup Process
5. Remove Standing Water
Pump out standing water with a submersible pump or a wet/dry vacuum, but if you don’t have either of those at your disposal, it might be best to call in the pros. In addition to bacteria, standing water can also contribute to mould growth.
6. Dispose of Contaminated Materials
Materials that have come into contact with sewage must be cleaned up and cleared away, even carpeting and upholstered furniture; plastics and other nonporous materials can be cleaned and sanitised; hard surfaces such as tile and concrete can be cleaned and disinfected.
Cleaning and Disinfecting
7. Thorough Cleaning
Wash all affected areas with soap and water first to remove as many contaminants as possible. Then scrub hard surfaces with brushes to get into nooks and crannies.
8. Disinfection is Key
Once the area is cleaned, spray a bleach solution (1 cup of bleach to 1 gallon of water) or a commercial disinfectant onto the area to kill lingering bacteria and viruses. Wait the prescribed time before wiping it dry.
Drying and Dehumidifying
9. Dry the Area Completely
The enemy here is moisture – use fans, dehumidifiers and open windows to quick-dry the situation. Within 24-48 hours, mould can infiltrate. Time is of the essence.
10. Check for Mold
Check for mould. Kill that sucker when you see it. Mould causes terrible health issue symptoms and may compromise your home. Use approved mould removal procedures.
Preventing Future Sewage Issues
11. Regular Maintenance
Maintenance of your plumbing and sewer lines will prevent future spills; commit to check-ups and cleanings on a regular basis. Protect your home from future sewage backups by installing backflow valves and sump pumps.
12. Educate Your Household
Educating everyone in your household as to what not to put down the toilet (no wipes, paper towels or feminine products) is a good way to reduce clogs and backups.
When to Call the Professionals
13. Know Your Limits
A sewage spill, whether too large or difficult to clean up, should not be handled by the average person. Professional sewage cleanup services can expertly clean up large numbers of gallons with their complete equipment, personnel, and training.
Final Thoughts
Sewer spills leave nasty messes. Some are traditional sewer spills, like broken pipes, leaking manholes or worksite accidents. Others are emergencies, such as river overflow into homes. But if you have to clean up, there are some basic best practices you can follow to ensure the spills will be cleaned up safely, that you will remain healthy, and that your home will not succumb to sewer odours or contamination.
All just further justification of the need to give the professionals a ring the next time you need remediation: it will be safe and clean, contaminations gone.
