Recent Biohazard Posts

Practice Extreme Caution When Dealing with Contaminated Water.

9/15/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Sarpy County Professionals understand how disruptive and dangerous contaminated water can be and offer 24-hour emergency response.

Any water damage in your home or facility is bad. Especially when the water contains potentially harmful bacteria that can affect the health of occupants and the value of your property. Toilet overflows, sewage backups and other black water intrusions are more than nasty, smelly messes; these biohazards damages also introduce harmful microorganisms into your building, as well as the moisture necessary to ensure their continued growth.

Sewage damage poses serious health risks to anyone exposed to the contaminated water. The danger arises from various harmful substances, including parasites that can cause intestinal disease. Some common risks are Hepatitis A, E-coli and Salmonella. This grossly unsanitary water is often referred to as “black water.” Building occupants should practice precautionary and safety measures at all times when dealing with the threat of black water.

Safety Tips for Building and Home Occupants.

DO:

  • Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage.
  • Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items

DON’T

  • Spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily on damaged or wet areas and by tracking the contamination elsewhere.
  • Turn on the HVAC system if impacted by water. The HVAC system could spread contaminated air to other parts of the building.
  • Use household fans to dry the structure which could possibly spread contaminants.
  • Use products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if they have been exposed to the contaminated areas.
  • Consume food or drink that has been exposed to the contaminated areas.

A mop and common cleaning products may not be enough for the black water intrusions. SERVPRO of Sarpy County is trained to safely clean and restore your home or facility, utilizing the following procedures:

  • Identify the Source/Type of Water.
  • Measure Temperature and Humidity for Drying Analysis.
  • Survey the Extent of Damage and Inspect the Premises.
  • Perform Emergency Water Extraction.
  • Move and Block Furniture.
  • Provide Floor Service.
  • Inspect Carpet and Padding.
  • Apply Necessary Treatments Including Disinfectants and Deodorizers.
  • Utilize and Monitor Drying Equipment.
  • Dispose of Refuse.

Under normal circumstances, a trained, uniformed restoration technician arrives on-site within four hours of loss notification to begin emergency mitigation services. By responding quickly with a full line of water cleanup and restoration services, SERVPRO® of Sarpy County can help you regain control quickly through proper drying, deodorization and protection of your facility and contents. Abiding by OSHA guidelines and all applicable health regulations, SERVPRO® of Sarpy County removes moisture, sewage and contaminants, disinfecting and deodorizing as they safely clean and dry your building and restore contents. So, before you risk your health trying to clean up the damage, call your local SERVPRO® of Sarpy County cleanup and restoration professionals or dial 402-291-3355.

Sewage Backup Damage in Omaha

3/27/2015 (Permalink)

This sewage backup resulted from a 4" rainstorm in Omaha.

Spring has arrived!  But springtime often brings heavy rains, which can trigger sewer backups.  These usually come in through a sump well, washtub and/or toilet in a basement. During storms, the power gets knocked out, disabling the sump pump from protecting your basement.

The damage can be costly, as the contaminated water or sewage usually destroys everything it comes into contact with. For the thousands of dollars in damage, it would be well worth purchasing the additional insurance coverage.  Typical cost for such a policy addition is $25 to $50 annually.  Costs for an average sewage loss range from $5,000 to $10,000 or more.

We hope you avoid sewer backups this spring, but should the need arise, contact SERVPRO of Sarpy County for help.

We are ready to assist you 24x7.