Cleanup and Disinfection

When sewage backs up into your home, it can create a hazardous situation. Sewage contains bacteria and viruses that can cause serious illness. It is important to clean up and disinfect the area as soon as possible to prevent the spread of infection.

Steps for Sewage Cleanup and Disinfection

1. Remove the sewage from the area. Use a pump or a bucket to remove the sewage from the affected area. Be sure to wear gloves and a mask to protect yourself from contamination.
2. Clean the area with a bleach solution. Mix one part bleach to ten parts water. Use a sponge or mop to apply the solution to the affected area. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then rinse with clean water.
3. Disinfect the area with a commercial disinfectant. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use. Be sure to wear gloves and a mask to protect yourself from contamination.
4. Dry the area thoroughly. Use a fan or dehumidifier to dry the area thoroughly. This will help to prevent the growth of mold and mildew.

Effects of Sewage Backups

Sewage backups can have a number of negative effects on your home and health.

Effects on Your Home

• Damage to your property. Sewage can damage your floors, walls, and furniture. It can also lead to the growth of mold and mildew.
• Unpleasant odors. Sewage can create unpleasant odors that can linger for weeks or even months.
• Health hazards. Sewage contains bacteria and viruses that can cause serious illness. It is important to clean up and disinfect the area as soon as possible to prevent the spread of infection.

Effects on Your Health

Sewage can contain a variety of bacteria and viruses that can cause serious illness, including:

• Gastrointestinal illness. Sewage can cause gastrointestinal illness, such as diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
• Skin infections. Sewage can cause skin infections, such as rashes, boils, and cellulitis.
• Respiratory infections. Sewage can cause respiratory infections, such as pneumonia and bronchitis.
• Eye infections. Sewage can cause eye infections, such as conjunctivitis and keratitis.

How do I Disinfect my Basement after a Sewer Backup?

If your basement has been flooded with sewage, it is important to clean up and disinfect the area as soon as possible to prevent the spread of infection. Here are the steps you should take:

1. Remove the sewage from the basement. Use a pump or a bucket to remove the sewage from the basement. Be sure to wear gloves and a mask to protect yourself from contamination.
2. Clean the basement with a bleach solution. Mix one part bleach to ten parts water. Use a sponge or mop to apply the solution to the affected area. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then rinse with clean water.
3. Disinfect the basement with a commercial disinfectant. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use. Be sure to wear gloves and a mask to protect yourself from contamination.
4. Dry the basement thoroughly. Use a fan or dehumidifier to dry the basement thoroughly. This will help to prevent the growth of mold and mildew.