Chicago news networks reported that a 32-year-old man working to rod out a sewer drain pipe apparently strangled himself when his hooded sweatshirt became entangled in his rodding machine.

Chicago news networks recently reported that a 32-year-old man working to rod out a sewer drain pipe apparently strangled himself when his hooded sweatshirt became entangled in his rodding machine. (Full story here)

When stories like this happen, it’s a good time to review safety measures with your drain cleaning team. Below are health, safety and hygiene tips courtesy of Marty Silverman of General Pipe Cleaners:

• Always wear safety glasses when operating drain cleaning equipment to protect your eyes from debris that may spray from the drain.
  
  
• Never touch a cable with your bare hands, and wash your hands and solid surfaces after completing a job.
  
  
• Healthcare workers use a solution of one part chlorine bleach to 20 parts water when they get blood on clothing. The cable can be cleaned the same way.
  
  
• Only wear heavy-duty leather gloves when operating the drain cleaning equipment (cloth, rubber or latex can get caught in the coils). Only use medical latex gloves as an insert inside the leather gloves. Also be careful of loose-fitting clothing or sleeves, as they too can get entangled in fast-moving machines.

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