Sewage cleanup is a critical service that helps protect public health and the environment. When sewage backs up into homes or businesses, it can create a serious health hazard. Sewage contains bacteria, viruses, and other harmful microorganisms that can cause disease. It is important to have sewage cleaned up and disinfected as quickly as possible to prevent the spread of infection.

Cleanup and Disinfection

The first step in sewage cleanup is to remove all of the sewage from the affected area. This can be done using a wet/dry vacuum or a water pump. Once the sewage has been removed, the area must be disinfected to kill any remaining bacteria or viruses. Disinfection can be done using a variety of methods, including:

* **Chlorine bleach:** Chlorine bleach is a powerful disinfectant that can be used to kill bacteria and viruses. It is important to use chlorine bleach according to the manufacturer’s instructions, as it can be harmful if used incorrectly.
* **Quaternary ammonium compounds:** Quaternary ammonium compounds (QUATS) are another type of disinfectant that can be used to kill bacteria and viruses. QUATS are less toxic than chlorine bleach, but they are also less effective.
* **Hydrogen peroxide:** Hydrogen peroxide is a powerful disinfectant that can be used to kill bacteria, viruses, and mold. Hydrogen peroxide is not as toxic as chlorine bleach, but it is also less effective.

Effects of Sewage Backup

Sewage backup can have a number of serious effects on human health. Some of the most common effects include:

* **Gastrointestinal illness:** Sewage contains bacteria and viruses that can cause gastrointestinal illness, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
* **Respiratory illness:** Sewage can also contain bacteria and viruses that can cause respiratory illness, such as pneumonia and bronchitis.
* **Skin infections:** Sewage can contain bacteria and viruses that can cause skin infections, such as cellulitis and impetigo.
* **Eye infections:** Sewage can contain bacteria and viruses that can cause eye infections, such as conjunctivitis and keratitis.

How do I get the sewer smell out of my house after a backup?

If you have experienced a sewage backup in your home, it is important to have the sewage cleaned up and disinfected as quickly as possible. You can also take the following steps to help remove the sewer smell from your home:

* **Open windows and doors:** Opening windows and doors will help to ventilate your home and remove the sewer smell.
* **Place bowls of vinegar around your home:** Vinegar is a natural odor absorber. Placing bowls of vinegar around your home can help to absorb the sewer smell.
* **Sprinkle baking soda on carpets and furniture:** Baking soda is another natural odor absorber. Sprinkling baking soda on carpets and furniture can help to absorb the sewer smell.
* **Use an air purifier:** An air purifier can help to remove the sewer smell from your home. Air purifiers work by filtering the air and removing pollutants.