Biohazards: Sewage and Flooding

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Sewage backups are considered serious biohazards and should be handled with caution. This type of water can carry diseases and bacteria that can lead to very serious illness. Therefore, special equipment and training is needed to clean up properly. 

Types of water contamination:

• Clean water: comes from a clean sources, but can degrade if in contact with contaminants. 

                    Ex: Broken water line

• Gray water: contains a significant level of contamination that can lead to health issues if ingested. 

                    Ex: Dishwasher overflow, washing machine overflow, etc. 

• Black water: Extremely unsanitary and can lead to severe illness if ingested. All contact should be avoided. Can contain untreated sewage, chemicals, microbes, etc. 

                    Ex:  Sewer backup, flooding rivers, standing water that supports microbial growth

Tips: 

• Stay away from contamination
• Call emergency services if necessary
• Emergency contact
• Turn off HVAC if sewage damage is suspected
• Do not use appliance in the home 
• Stay out of rooms with sagging or wet ceilings