Caution: Contaminated Water

9/28/2016 (Permalink)

Any water damage in your facility is bad, especially when the water contains potentially harmful bacteria that can affect the health of occupants and the value of your property. Toilet overflows, sewage backups and other black water intrusions are more than nasty, smelly messes; these bio-hazardous damages also introduce harmful microorganisms into your building, as well as the moisture necessary to ensure their continued growth. 

Sewage damage poses serious health risks to anyone exposed to the contaminated water. The danger arises from various harmful substances, including parasites, that can cause intestinal disease. Some common risks are hepatitis A, E-coli and Salmonella. This grossly unsanitary water is often referred to as "black water." Building occupants should practice precautionary and safety measures at all times when dealing with the threat of black water.

Safety Tips for Building Occupants

DO:

• Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage
• Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items

DON'T:

• Don't spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily on damaged or wet areas and by tracking the contamination elsewhere.
• Don't turn on the HVAC system if impacted by water. The HVAC system could spread contaminated air to other parts of the building.
• Don't use household fans to dry the structure which could possibly spread contaminants.
• Don't use products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if they have been exposed to the contaminated areas.
• Don't consume food or drink that has been exposed to the contaminated areas.