Sewage Clean Up Procedures

Heavy rainfall often leads to flooding. Floodwaters contain raw sewage. Raw sewage spills may also result from wastewater system backups. Raw sewage and wastewater contain viruses, fungi and parasites that cause illness and can lead to death. To prevent this, complete appropriate cleaning and disinfecting measures. Homeowners may choose to clean up mild spills or hire a contractor to do the work. Report major raw sewage spills to the city, responsible utility company or a septic tank company.

Inside

• Block off the area where the raw sewage or wastewater spill has occurred. Put on rubber or waterproof gloves and boots and any other protective clothing that is available. Rubber or vinyl aprons and hip waders, used during fishing, offer excellent protection. Contain the spill by diverting the flow into buckets or toward a sewer. Always keep hands away from the eyes, face and mouth when dealing with raw sewage or wastewater spills. Anything touched by the sewage is contaminated.

  Discard nonwashable items made out of porous materials. This includes mattresses, box springs, upholstered furniture, carpeting, carpet padding and ceiling tiles. Thoroughly wash items with hot water; this may require more than one wash cycle. Dry-clean or discard items that a washing machine may damage. Clean all walls, floors and surfaces with hot soapy water. Once the surfaces have dried, disinfect them by wiping them down with a bleach solution. Mix a quarter cup of bleach to one gallon of water. Prevent mold growth by completely drying all items. Use fans to hasten the drying process.

Outside

• Use garden lime to clean up minor raw sewage or wastewater spills that occur outside of the home. Follow the same protective measures suggested above. In addition, follow all of the tips, warnings and cautions listed on the manufacturer's label. Cover the surface of the sewage spill with lime. Use a garden hoe, shovel or rake to mix the lime into areas where the spill is thick. After 24 hours, rake or shovel the residue into a plastic bag and seal it tightly. Place the bag in a garbage can. Use a garden hose to water any remaining waste and lime into the ground or sewer system. Block access until sunlight thoroughly dries the area.

Personal Cleanup

• Immediately dispose of cleaning and personal protection items used during this process. Seal them in a plastic bag and throw them away. After coming into contact with any raw sewage or wastewater, shower as soon as possible. The same holds true after cleanup efforts. Pay special attention to hands and fingernails. Use a nailbrush, hot water and soap to clean under nails. Rub hands briskly together and make sure to rub between the fingers and thumbs. Do not cook or eat until personal hygiene measures are completed.