Recent Biohazard Posts

Biohazard Cleanup steps and practices

5/3/2024 (Permalink)

Photo of Biohazard from a job Photo of a Biohazard cleanup that we worked on

When it comes to cleaning up biohazards, SERVPRO® takes a meticulous and comprehensive approach to ensure safety and thoroughness. Here's how they typically handle it:

  1. Assessment: Here at SERVPRO of Spring Valley / Jamul, our technicians begin by assessing the extent of the biohazard contamination. This involves identifying the type of biohazard (blood, bodily fluids, sewage, etc.), its source, and the affected areas.
  2. Safety Precautions: Safety is our top priority. Our technicians wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks, goggles, and suits to minimize exposure to harmful substances.
  3. Containment: To prevent the spread of contaminants, we set up containment barriers using plastic sheeting and tape. This helps us to isolate the affected area and minimize cross-contamination.
  4. Removal: Biohazardous materials are carefully removed and disposed of according to local regulations and industry standards. We utilize specialized equipment and techniques to safely remove biohazardous waste.
  5. Cleaning and Disinfection: The affected area is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected using EPA-approved disinfectants. SERVPRO follows strict protocols to ensure all surfaces are properly sanitized and free from harmful pathogens.
  6. Deodorization: Biohazardous materials can often leave behind unpleasant odors. We employ professional deodorization techniques to eliminate odors and restore a fresh, clean environment.
  7. Verification: Once the cleanup process is complete, our technicians conduct a final inspection to ensure that the area meets safety and cleanliness standards. This may involve using testing equipment to verify that contaminants have been effectively removed.
  8. Documentation We provide detailed documentation of the cleanup process, including before and after photos, inventory of removed materials, and certification of compliance with regulations.
  9. Follow-up: SERVPRO may provide recommendations for ongoing maintenance or additional services to ensure the continued safety and cleanliness of the property.

Overall, we here at SERVPRO of Spring Valley / Jamul approaches biohazard cleanup with professionalism, expertise, and a commitment to restoring the affected area to a safe and habitable condition.

Sewage Leaks and Their Stinky Reality | SERVPRO of Spring Valley/Jamul

3/15/2024 (Permalink)

sewage water pooling on a kitchen floor after a leak SERVPRO of Spring Valley/Jamul is always ready to respond to your call when biohazard incidents strike.

Finding a sewage leak in your home or place of business can be a very frustrating experience. It may not be the most damaging disaster that could affect you, but it will be one of the hardest to deal with simply due to the gross factor that comes along with it.

Sewage leaks are fairly common, and they can strike anywhere. The faster you can deal with a leak and prevent the situation from growing, the better things will be. That is why it is crucial to gain some understanding of what to do when you find sewage in the wrong places.

What to Do First

When there is a clog or blockage in your waste system, wastewater will start moving in the wrong direction. Eventually the sewage will find its way out through your sink drains, showers and tubs. Sewage leaks can also start when your water line or pipes are damaged.

No matter what your specific leak situation is, you need to stay away from the water. When floods or leaks happen, there are three ways the water is classified: white water, gray water, and black water. White water and gray water floods or leaks stem from what is considered clean water sources, but black water is considered toxic and harmful. Sewage leaks are categorized as black water and often contain viruses, bacteria and other microbes that could make you sick.

Stay away from the water, and find shutoff valves to stop the flow of water and keep the leak contained. Open windows and turn on fans around the area to help with fumes. Make sure everyone in the building knows to stay away, or if you are at home, block the area off to keep kids and pets away.

Where SERVPRO® Comes In

Our team is both highly trained and certified in handling the cleaning and restoration of all kinds of biohazard situations. Call us, day or night, and we will start your recovery right away over the phone. While we gather as much information about your particular sewage leak, we will also start preparing a team and the proper equipment to head to your property.

While our team is on the way, take some photos from a safe distance. While these aren’t images you want to keep, the more documentation you have, the better your insurance claims process will go. These images can also be a great help for our team and could even help identify the source of the leak.

When our crew gets there, they will immediately start removing standing water and sewage while they also search for the source of the leak. Since sewage water is considered toxic, our staff will have full protective gear on as the cleanup proceeds. At this point, the more you can stay away, the better.

Throughout the process, we will fix whatever caused the leak and any subsequent physical damage that occurred. We will also deep-clean and sanitize the space, as well as address any odors. Our job is not complete until there are no lingering smells and your space looks exactly as it should again.

A sewage leak is something you should never deal with on your own. Call us to get things cleaned up safely and quickly so you can get back to normal.

Sewage leaks should always be cleaned up by professionals. Call SERVPRO, and we will take care of you.