Cleaning Raw Sewage in a Crawl Space
Cleaning raw sewage in a crawl space can be a hazardous job, but there are some steps you can take to minimize its risks. These steps include knowing the potential health risks of raw sewage contamination, establishing liability policies, and disinfecting nonporous items in the crawl space.
Hazards of raw sewage contamination
Whether a sewer overflows into a home’s crawl space or a tree root blocks a sewage line, the presence of raw sewage can pose a threat to your health. The smells and chemicals from raw sewage are extremely potent and can cause allergic reactions. Sewage fumes can also permeate household materials, causing them to remain permanently in the building. It is therefore crucial to wear proper protective gear when cleaning sewage. In addition to this, regular soaps and detergents should not be used when cleaning sewage. You should also shut off any water sources that add to the sewage system. This includes your sinks, toilet flushing, and even the building’s water supply.
Cleaning raw sewage from a crawl space poses several safety hazards. The contaminated sewage may be present in your HVAC system or in the surrounding soil. Ensure that you clean and disinfect these areas before moving on to the next step. Professionals can perform surface tests to determine the type and level of contamination and disinfect the affected areas. They can either use diluted bleach or sanitizers that will kill bacteria and prevent the spread of infections. Once this process is complete, you can return to your crawl space.
Liability policies for cleaning raw sewage in a crawl space
The cleanup of sewage-filled crawl spaces can be hazardous to your health and your home. It can be a source of dangerous odors and toxic fumes. Inhaling the fumes can cause nausea and headaches, and you may be exposed to pathogens that can migrate into your home. To minimize your exposure, you should wear protective clothing.
If you are worried about your liability coverage, you should consult with your insurer. The right liability insurance policy can protect you from costly lawsuits. If you or your family has been exposed to raw sewage, you may be able to recover damages for medical treatment and other expenses.
Ways to reduce smell of sewage in a crawl space
The odor of raw sewage in crawl spaces can make it difficult to live comfortably. There are ways to mitigate the smell. The first step to eliminate the odor is to repair damaged pipes and equipment. Also, cover any exposed surfaces with plastic sheets to minimize the smell. Secondly, use a shop vac or submersible pump to remove standing water or small spills. Finally, make sure to wear protective gear. The fumes from raw sewage are toxic and you need to wear safety glasses and respirator masks to avoid acquiring respiratory problems.
Depending on the amount of raw sewage in your crawl space, you may have to hire a professional for the job. The cost will vary from $10 to $25 per square foot. You should also consider the size and accessibility of the space. If the space is small, you can try to use some homemade remedies to reduce moisture in the area. You can also use baking soda or lime to clean the crawl space.
Ways to disinfect nonporous items in a crawl space
After cleaning raw sewage from a crawl space, you should disinfect nonporous items that you have stored in the space using a bleach and water solution. The process can take a few days or even a week, depending on the amount of contamination in the space. Once this step is complete, you should discard all porous items and package them for disposal.
First, inspect the nonporous materials and check for subsurface contamination with a moisture meter. If you see any mold or other bacteria, dispose of them. Additionally, discard any food that has been contaminated and other items that are not clean. It is also important to turn off all sources of water that add to the drain system, such as toilet flushing and sinks. If a flood has occurred, you may need to turn off the water supply to your building as well.
Using garden lime to break down sewage
If sewage has backed up in your crawl space, you may want to try using garden lime to break it down. You can buy lime at an agricultural store and sprinkle it over the contaminated soil. The lime will help the sewage break down faster and will eliminate the odor. However, you should wear protective gear to protect yourself from chemical residues. This method can also be dangerous for your children, so you need to supervise them.
If you do decide to try using garden lime to break down sewage, remember to wear protective gear and rinse your mouth afterward. If you do get contaminated, seek medical attention immediately. The best way to do this is by purchasing hydrated lime. This solution is available at hardware stores, but you should dispose of it via the sink or toilet in the kitchen. The Outback Communities Authority recommends using five kilograms of lime for a standard septic tank.