Sewage Spill Cleanup
This procedure outlines the requirements for cleanup of a sewage spill. It will reduce the chances of the spread of communicable diseases resulting from the spill.
WHEN REQUIRED
Sewage spill cleanup procedures shall be utilized whenever sewage backups or spills contaminate building materials such as ceiling tiles, drywall, and carpet that are not part of the sanitary sewer system.
CLEAN UP PROCEDURE
To clean sewage spills:
- Contain the spill immediately, and divert it to a sanitary sewer if possible.
- Restrict access to contaminated areas.
- Before working in contaminated areas, don appropriate personal protective equipment. Contact EH&IS for specific recommendations.
- Dispose of excess water in the sanitary sewer.
- Assess the contaminated materials, and determine if they are porous or non-porous.
- Allow general access to the area only after all contaminated materials have been cleaned.
To disinfect non-porous materials and 2x4 studs:
- Apply an approved disinfectant and follow the directions printed on the label.
To clean contaminated porous materials such as ceiling tiles, drywall, and carpet:
- Contact EH&IS to determine whether the material should be discarded.
- Before removing contaminated material, don impermeable disposable personal protective equipment including tyvek® style suits, rubber boots, and gloves.
- Use wet methods to reduce airborne dust.
- Protect the HVAC from airborne dust.
- Discard porous building materials and personal protective equipment by enclosing them in sealed plastic bags and disposing of them into a solid waste container.
Shut down any food service operations immediately after sewage spills, contact EH&IS, and then follow the procedures listed above. Approval from EH&IS is required, before the establishment can be reopened.