Sewage Cleanup
Sewage Backup: Health Risks and Why It's a Job for Pros
By Cleaner Guys · · 5 min read
A sewage backup isn't just unpleasant — it's a health hazard. The IICRC classifies sewage as Category 3 "black water," the most contaminated type of water damage.
What makes sewage so dangerous
Sewage can contain bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Contact, splashing, or even breathing aerosolized droplets can cause illness, which is why children, pets, and anyone with a weakened immune system should stay away from affected areas.
What you should do right away
- Stop using sinks, toilets, and appliances that drain
- Keep everyone out of the affected area
- Avoid touching contaminated items without protection
- Call a restoration professional immediately
How professionals handle it
Trained technicians wear protective equipment, extract contaminated water, remove porous materials that can't be sanitized, apply antimicrobial treatments, and dry the structure to prevent secondary mold growth.