What To Do When Your Sewer Backs Up

You don't need an article to tell you that a sewer backup is no joke. Sewage backups can be a disaster for homeowners, causing damage to floors, walls, and furniture and posing a serious health risk. In the event of a sewage backup, it's important to act quickly and follow the proper protocols to minimize damage and ensure the safety of your family. Here's what to do in the event of a sewage backup:

Step 1. Stop using all plumbing fixtures and call a professional plumber:

To prevent the backup from spreading, turn off your main water supply and stop using all plumbing fixtures, including toilets, sinks, and showers. If you're unable to locate the source of the backup, or if the backup is severe, it's best to call a professional plumber. They have the tools and expertise to prevent future backups safely and effectively from occurring.

Step 2. Protect yourself, and do not touch anything.

Sewage water is contaminated and poses a serious health risk. If you have to be near the contaminated area, put on rubber gloves, waterproof boots, and protective eyewear to protect yourself from coming into contact with the contaminated water.

Step 3. Call a biohazard cleaning company to clean and disinfect the contaminated area.

Biohazard companies clean sewage backups by following a standard set of procedures to ensure the safety of workers and the environment. These procedures include:

• Isolating the affected area to prevent the spread of disease and contamination.
• Wearing personal protective equipment, such as gloves, masks, and eye protection, to prevent exposure to harmful bacteria and viruses.
• Removing all standing water and solid waste to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.
• Using specialized cleaning agents to remove all remaining organic material and sanitize the affected area.
• Ventilating the affected area to remove any lingering unpleasant odors and to allow the area to dry.
• Disposing of any contaminated material in accordance with local regulations to prevent environmental contamination.
• Inspecting the affected area to ensure that all contaminants have been removed and that the area is safe for reoccupation.

Sewage backups can be a major headache, but following these steps can help you minimize the damage and keep your family safe. If you ever have any doubts or concerns, don't hesitate to call a professional plumber or biohazard cleaning company for assistance.

Call us 24/7 at (317) 499-0614 for a free estimate! Learn more about the biohazard services we provide to residents in Indianapolis and surrounding areas at BioOneMarionCounty.com/services

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