Did You Know?
Risk to the public’s health from sewage exposure is demonstrated in a 1988-1989 epidemic of hepatitis A in Ocoee, Florida, that resulted in 39 cases and one fetal death (Vonstille et al, 1993). Unprotected workers
who remediate sewage damage losses, as well as sewage treatment workers, and sewage sludge processors, are at risk for chronic respiratory disease, other systemic health effects, and a host of acute and chronic bacterial, fungal, viral, and parasitic diseases. Over 120 different viruses can be excreted in human feces and urine and find their way into sewage (Straub et al, 1993). These can include rotavirus, causing severe and sometimes life-threatening diarrhea in children, adenoviruses, causing respiratory and eye infections, and Norovirus, a significant cause of gastroenteritis. Parasitic agents include the highly infectious Giardia and Cryptosporidium that can result in chronic and severe intestinal diseases in both adults and children. Attempts at salvaging sewage-contaminated carpet and other porous materials can also liberate extensive amounts of allergens, as well as potentially infectious agents. This poses a risk for susceptible populations such as the elderly, infants, convalescents, and those that are immunocompromised through disease therapy (IICRC Reference Guide for Professional Water Damage Restoration) (IICRC S500).
If you are ever in doubt as to the potential hazard your unfortunate sewer backup situation may pose to
you, your family, or employees, call Clean Tech for a complete evaluation. |
