The Seven Major Hazards in Drain and Sewer Cleaning
Editor's note: This is the second of a three part series on drain and sewer cleaning safety. The text is from Chapter 1 of The Professional Handbook-Drain and Sewer Cleaners, Second Edition. It is reprinted with permission of Spartan Tool's International Institute of Sewer and Pipe Cleaning. The handbook was authored by Ernest L. Weber.
The second major hazard of concern to drain and sewer cleaners is Contracting Disease or becoming Ill due to waterborne microorganisms and bloodborne pathogens in the wastewater. Bacteria, virus, parasites and fungi are in the drains and sewers, and the danger of becoming ill due to contact is possible. As a human being concerned about my fellow man, I do not want anyone to become ill on the job due to carelessness or failure to take the steps necessary to help prevent disease or illness. As an employer, it is my responsibility to insure that my employees have adequate protection on the job and are taught the procedures which lower the chances they will contract a job related disease or illness. As a service technician, it is my responsibility to insure I take adequate steps to minimize the likelihood I will become ill while on the job.