Possible Plumbing Hazards

There are certain hazards that pose a risk anytime you are making plumbing repairs. To avoid health hazards and injuries it is important to make sure you are following the proper safety procedures. Some plumbing hazards you might run into include:  

Exposure The Harmful Substances

When making plumbing repairs there is a risk of exposure to harmful substances like asbestos, lead, and sulfur dioxide. Throughout the decades, different materials have been used in the manufacturing of construction goods. Materials like asbestos and lead, were once thought harmless, and it wasn’t until the mid 20th century that they were banned. If your home was built prior to the 1970’s there is a good chance that asbestos or lead could be lurking in or around your plumbing.  In addition, running into sulfur dioxide is also a risk. The breakdown of waste emits a gas, in simple terms this is called sewer gas. This gas emits a foul odor that is unmistakable. Your plumbing system has traps that enable a barrier of water to block sewer gas from entering your home. If the trap dries out, you will notice the stench of sewer emitting from your drains. Limited exposure, like that from your drains poses no immediate risk, however during plumbing work if you have to enter a tunnel or hole where sewage is breaking down, the risk of harm from exposure increases.   

Exposure To Harmful Chemicals

When working around plumbing there is also the risk of exposure to harmful chemicals. Plumbing work often involves working with solvents, adhesives, and soldering materials. All of which can pose harm if ingested or comes in contact with eyes or skin.  

Electrical Shock

Electrical shock is another risk plumbers undergo. Electricity and water do not mix. Often times if there is a plumbing leak, it is in close proximity to electrical wiring. When making repairs it is important to both shut off the water supply the electricity. This is why plumbing repairs are best left to the professionals. 

Exposure To Bio-hazards

It's no mystery that plumbing is surrounded by bio-hazards like sewage. If there is a sewage flood, cleanup can involve exposure to some pretty nasty stuff. In addition to exposure to raw sewage, there is also the risk of exposure to other harmful bio-hazards you might not have thought about like rodent or bird droppings, both of which can carry harmful pathogens that can make you very sick.   

Plumbing Safety Gear

If going the DIY route, it is important to make sure you have the proper safety gear which includes:  

• Protective Eye Gear - This can help protect eyes from harmful substances and foreign objects.
• Protective Ear Gear - Plumbing work is often accompanied by ear-piercing sounds, which over time can cause permanent damage or even hearing loss. 
• Proper Protective Clothing - Anytime you are working around dangerous chemicals, you will want to make sure you skin is protected. 
• Face Mask - If you are working around chemicals, bio-hazards, or harmful substances like asbestos you will want to protect your lungs with a ventilating mask. 
• Non-Slip Shoes - Plumbing work will often take you to slippery places, which is why non-slip shoes are really important. In addition, steel toes will protect against sharp objects.

 In addition to coming in contact with harmful substances, plumbing work can often take you to difficult to reach places that involve working in strange positions that can cause injury. It is important to consider ergonomics to prevent unnecessary muscle strains and aches. This involves taking breaks, stretching, and using safe lifting techniques.    When dealing with plumbing repair, it is always best to leave it to the professionals. Professional plumbers are properly trained on safety procedures to protect themselves but also you and your loved ones. To learn more about plumbing safety tips contact Rooter Hero today. 

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