How to Handle a Sewage Backup in Your Business

Unexpected Nature of Sewage Backups

SewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backups can happen at any time within a business or commercial building. They can cause a lot of damage to your property, and they are dangerous to clean up without the proper training and equipment. SewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More water also contains harmful materials that can spread infectionInfection is the invasion and multiplication of harmful micr... More and disease which puts all those within the building in danger.

Here are some things that cause sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backups at your business:

• Not doing cleaning and maintenanceMaintenance is the routine care, inspection, and repair of a... More regularly
• Improper flushing habits
• Build-up of grease
• Pipes that have cracked
• Connections and joints that are misaligned within your plumbing system

When a sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup happens in a commercial setting, it is of utmost importance to react quickly. This will help reduce any additional damage and help you and your employees stay safe. This is what you should do if you encounter a sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup at your business:

• Call a professional:

SewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More is hazardous and only professionals should handle the sewage cleanup. They have the proper equipment and experience to help you in this situation so that you can reduce the damage and get your property restored.

• Prioritize safety:

The area where there is a sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup should be blocked off and no one should be coming close to it. If there is any electrical equipment, make sure to disconnect it. This includes power and gas.

• Avoid additional damage:

If you experienced overflow and the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More has spread to non-porous surfaces, it can be cleaned up with a gallon of warm water and 1/4 of a cup of bleach. However, depending on how big the spill is, it is best to leave it to the professionals.

• Throw away damaged items:

If there are items that you cannot save from the area that has been affected by sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More water, it is best to discard them. A professional sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More removal company will help make sure they remove any biohazards, disinfect any items that can be saved, and then dry and dehumidify the area that has been affected.

• Prevent further sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backups:

It is important to do everything you can to avoid future sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backups. This should include an annual sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More system and plumbing inspectionInspection is the careful examination and assessment of a pr... More.

Understanding the Causes of Sewage Backups

You should understand what factors usually cause sewage backups and how to avoid them. Here are some common causes of sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backups:

• Clogs:

These usually happen in drainpipes, main sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More lines, and other areas. Generally, clogs happen due to oils and fats, too much soap residueResidue is any leftover material, such as soot, dust, or che... More, leftover paper products etc.

• Tree roots:

This is a very common issue with sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backups. Tree roots will make their way into your pipes, grow bigger, and fully destroy your sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More lines.

• Broken sewer line:

If your commercial building is older, your pipes can get damaged a lot easier. This may cause a sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup.

• Misaligned connections and joints:

If your joints are misaligned, this may cause a sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup.

• Grease build-up:

Grease build-up is a common issue when it comes to sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backups.

• Improper flushing habits:

When inappropriate items are flushed down the toilet, it can cause a sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup. This includes baby wipes, feminine hygiene products, and even paper towels. They will cause a blockage in your sewer line.

• Pipes that have cracked:

Dirt and debris can build up in the pipes and enter your sewer line causing blockage.

There are many risks factors when it comes to your business. Whether the sewage backup at your business was caused by blockages, tree roots, structural defects, or even heavy rainfall, it is important to try and prevent it. This means that all waste should be disposed of properly, your sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More system should be regularly inspected, and you should install a backwater valve and redirect rainwater.

The level of contaminationContamination is the presence of harmful or unwanted substan... More in your building after a sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup will depend on the volume and how much solid content is in the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backflow. Also, it will depend on if the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup is in just one space such as a basement or in other levels, and how long the contaminationContamination is the presence of harmful or unwanted substan... More has been in place. Whatever the case may be, it is important to react quickly to any sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup issue so that you can avoid further damage to your property. The longer you do not treat the space, the higher the risk of significant damage and health issues.

It is important to maintain your sewer system as it can cause severe damage to your business. It can also be a health hazard for you and your employees. Here are some reasons why you should maintain your sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More system:

• Prevent emergencies and costly repairs:

If you do regular maintenanceMaintenance is the routine care, inspection, and repair of a... More of your system, you can identify any small issues and resolve them before they become bigger and cause major issues. This way you can see signs of blockages, leaks, and even cracks in your sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More system.

• Prolonging the lifespan of your sewer system:

Doing regular maintenanceMaintenance is the routine care, inspection, and repair of a... More on your sewer system will help it last longer. As sewer pipes and drains deteriorate over time, it is important to detect and address any issues early through routine inspections to help you avoid further damage or failure of your system.

• Maintaining regulatory compliance

When you do regular maintenanceMaintenance is the routine care, inspection, and repair of a... More and inspections, it will help you make sure that your system is compliant with local, state, and federal regulations. These regulations are in place to help safeguard the health of the public, protect the environment, and ensure proper disposing of wastewaterWastewater is used water that contains contaminants, chemica... More. If you do regular maintenanceMaintenance is the routine care, inspection, and repair of a... More, it will help you find out if you have any violations and to fix them quickly.

Health and Safety Precautions

Sewage backups at your business can be very dangerous and pose a health hazard to your employees. When there is a sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup, the property can be contaminated with pathogensPathogens are microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, or f... More that can leadLead is a heavy metal that can be toxic to humans, especiall... More to serious illnesses and infectionInfection is the invasion and multiplication of harmful micr... More. Here are the steps you need to take if you have a sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup at your business:

• Make sure everyone is safe: You should make sure to have the space evacuated so that you can avoid health hazards that can be caused by exposure to sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More.
• Wear the proper equipment: If you must be in the space, you need to wear the proper personal protective equipment (PPE)Personal protection equipment (PPE) is safety gear such as g... More.
• Let the relevant parties know about the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup issue: You should let your employees, customers, and other stakeholders know of the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup issue. Also, make sure to give them regular updates on the clean-up and restoration process. Because this is a health risk, it is important to let them know all the issues that may come up with a sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup. Finally, it is important to let the proper authorities and health agencies know of the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup issue at your business so they can take proper measures as needed.
• Take note of the damage: You should document all the damage that happened to your business due to sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup. This will help with your insurance claims.
• Avoid further damage: Turn off the water supply to prevent additional water flow into the areas that have had sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup damage.
• Reach to the professionals for clean-up: Make sure to reach out to professional restoration service that can help you in dealing with the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup situation.

Isolation of the Problem

One of the most important things to do when you have a sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup at your business is to take these steps to remediate the problem:

• Turn off the water: Make sure to shut off the water supply so that it does not go into the area and cause additional damage.
• Electric safety precautions: You should keep the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup area away from any supply of electric energy to keep you, your business, and your employees safe. It is also smart to turn off the gas supply as well.
• Ventilating the affected area: The professionals will make sure the area is properly dried, cleaned, and dehumidified so that it is safe for you and your employees to return to work.
• Secure any important documents and equipment: Make sure that your important documents and equipment are isolated and saved in a secure area, so they do not get damaged by sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More water.

Calling the Professionals

If you’ve had a sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup issue at your business, you should call the professionals. A professional flood and water damage restoration company will have the proper equipment, methods, and expertise to ensure that your space gets properly cleaned, dried, and restored after a sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup.

When you are searching for a professional sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More removal company, there are a few things you should take into consideration:

• Quick response and availability: The company should be available 24/7 so they can respond quickly to your call as sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backups are considered an emergency.
• Right experience and certifications: You should make sure that the technicians have the proper training and certifications from a valid organization such as the Institute on InspectionInspection is the careful examination and assessment of a pr... More, Cleaning & RestorationRestoration is the process of returning a property to its pr... More Certification (IICRC).
• Proper experience: The company you hire should have the right experience in sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More cleanup and restorationRestoration is the process of returning a property to its pr... More. Make sure to check customer reviews and testimonials.
• Proper safety measures: As sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More water is a hazardous situation, a professional sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More removal company should have the right equipment and protocols to ensure that your company and employees are protected.
• Have the right efficiency: When there is a sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup, it is crucial to react quickly. If you choose a reliable sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More removal company, they should react quickly and start the cleanup process right away.
• They should comply with regulations: The company you choose should properly dispose of the waste and follow proper local, state, and federal regulations.
• They should have insurance: The company you hire should have liability insurance in case of accidental damage during the cleanup.

Once you’ve decided on a professional sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More removal company, you should take the time to assess the damage together with the experts. This will help you understand what needs to be done, how long it will take to fix it, and how much it may cost.

As soon as the assessment process with a professional sewage removal company has been done, you should work with them to ensure that they get all the proper permits and approvals before any work has been done.

Documentation and Insurance

You should make sure that you take the proper measures to document the damage to your business and file a claim with your insurance so that you can be compensated for the damage.

Here are the steps you should take:

• Document the damage – Make sure you take detailed photos and videos of the damage at your business.
• Notifying the insurance company – Reach out to your insurance company and let them know about the damage to your business.
• Understanding the insurance coverage– Make sure to familiarize yourself with your policy and know exactly what coverage you can expect related to the damages you experienced.
• Keep records of all communication and expenses – You should keep records of all communication and expenses regarding the damages to your business. You may need this information later.

Cleanup and Restoration Process

Cleaning and restorationRestoration is the process of returning a property to its pr... More are a very important part of getting your business back to its original state after a sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup. A professional sewage removal and restoration company will:

• Remove sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More and water to reduce the risk of damage and spread of disease.
• All surfaces that were affected will be sanitized so that any hazardous materials are removed, and it can be safe for you and your employees to use.
• Any contaminated materials will be removed and disposed of if the restorationRestoration is the process of returning a property to its pr... More company is unable to restore them.
• All spaces that were affected by sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More will be dried and dehumidified to ensure that moldMold is a type of fungus that grows in damp or humid conditi... More growth does not form.
• Structural repairs will be done first and then any renovations that are necessary.

Preventative Measures

You should take all the necessary precautions to avoid sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backups at your business. Doing this will help you avoid costly damage to your property and exposing yourself and your employees to a health hazard. Here are a few things you can do to prevent sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backups at your business:

• Have a maintenanceMaintenance is the routine care, inspection, and repair of a... More plan and use it:

Figure out the best time for your business to be inspected to ensure your plumbing and sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More systems are working properly, there are no blockages or other issues that could cause a sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup.

• Upgrade your plumbing and sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More systems:

You should ensure that the plumbing and sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More systems are upgraded when necessary. This will help you avoid damage in the future. Have a reputable company inspect your plumbing and sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More systems and let you know if piping or other equipment should be replaced.

• Have proper employee training and emergency preparednessPreparedness is the state of being ready to respond to emerg... More plan in place:

It is important for your employees to know what to do in case of an emergency. If a sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup occurs, make sure your employees know what steps to take so that they can avoid harming their health. Also, you and other employees should know what to do with important equipment and documents in case they need to be put somewhere safe until the affected areas are cleaned.

• Do regular inspections and maintenanceMaintenance is the routine care, inspection, and repair of a... More:

You should work with a reputable company to make sure that your sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More system works properly. Schedule regular inspections and maintenanceMaintenance is the routine care, inspection, and repair of a... More of your systems when needed. Professionals should be able to recommend the best cadence for inspections and maintenanceMaintenance is the routine care, inspection, and repair of a... More based on your equipment so that your business can run smoothly, and you can avoid sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backups.

 

Communicating with Stakeholders

If you experience a sewage backup at your business, you should make sure to inform your employees. Let them know the issues and keep them informed of the progress and when you expect the issue to be resolved.

Anytime that you have a sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup, it can negatively impact your business. Your business may not be able to function, which means that you lose business. This is why it is crucial to communicate the situation to your customers and clients so that they are informed. Make sure that they understand that you are working on a solutionA solution is a homogeneous mixture of two or more substance... More, and you should give a timeline on when you expect business to resume as normal.

You should ensure that all stakeholders know that all the safety measures are being taken and that the issue is being resolved quickly and efficiently.

 

Legal and Regulatory Compliance

Anytime you experience a sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup at your business, there are local health and safety regulations that need to be followed. Make sure to familiarize yourself with them and follow them properly. This will help you avoid fines and legal issues. Here are a few things you can do regarding legal and regulatory compliance:

• Meeting local health and safety regulations:

Make sure to contact the local health department to find out what local health and safety regulations need to be followed for your specific case. This may relate to cleaning and disposal of hazardous waste from the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup.

• Handle any legal liabilities:

SewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backups at a business can sometimes create great damage and even cause legal liabilities. In many cases the municipalities are responsible for sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More and flood claims. The most common claims are negligence, environmental legislation, and negligent approvals.

• Documenting compliance effort:

Make sure to keep proper documentation of all the damage due to sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup. The best way to do this is via photos, videos, and any other documents you may need to fill out for your insurance company. You should keep this for your records as proof of compliance effort.

 

Final Inspection and Reoccupation

You should make sure to follow the proper rules from the local authorities on what to do once your property has been cleaned. This will ensure that it is safe for you and your employees to return to work.

Make sure that you have final inspections by the authorities scheduled and that you keep the proper documentation as proof in case you need it later.

If you work with a reputable sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More cleanup and restorationRestoration is the process of returning a property to its pr... More company, they will make sure to test the air quality and safety of the space and let you know if it passes their parameters before your employees can go back to work. If you do pass, you should be able to return to business as normal, with your employees going back to work. Finally, it is of utmost importance that your space is monitored for any issues that may arise and may be a concern. This will ensure that you do not encounter a sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup emergency again and must evacuate and close your business until it is cleaned.

 

What immediate actions must be taken if raw sewage backs up in my business?

If you are faced with raw sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More that has backed up into your space, you should react quickly and efficiently to have it cleaned up by a reputable sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More removal and restorationRestoration is the process of returning a property to its pr... More company. These are things you should do if you are faced with that situation:

• Call a professional sewage cleanup and restoration company so they can use the proper equipment and methods to clean up your space.
• Keep everyone safe by evacuating your building and isolating the area that has been affected to ensure the health and safety of your employees.
• Avoid additional damage by trying to clean the space yourself. You may end up spreading the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More further and even getting sick if you try to clean up before the professionals arrive.
• Discard any items that have been damaged beyond repairRepair is the act of fixing or restoring damaged property, m... More and isolate any items you are keeping. This will ensure they do not get damaged further.
• Prevent future sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backups by ensuring that you do proper inspections and maintenanceMaintenance is the routine care, inspection, and repair of a... More of your plumbing and sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More systems.

 

The Importance of Swift and Organized Response

Whatever may have caused the sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup situation at your business, it is important to try and prevent it from happening in the future. If the reason was not doing proper maintenanceMaintenance is the routine care, inspection, and repair of a... More on your plumbing or sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More systems, you should ensure you do that in the future. If the damage was due to something like a natural disaster that could have been prevented with the help of your municipality, make sure to reach out and work together to prevent situations like this in the future. Take all the precautions possible to ensure this does not happen in the future as it causes costly damage and may cause you to have to close your business until it is fixed.

You should always make sure that you are prepared for emergencies. Your employees should be trained in how to handle emergencies and you should have a plan in place in case unforeseen circumstances arise. This may include an evacuation plan, what to do with important documents, how to isolate equipment that may not have gotten damaged, etc. Having a plan in place will help with minimizing damage to your business and to your employees.

If your business has been affected by a sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More backup, make sure to call a restorationRestoration is the process of returning a property to its pr... More professional that will help you with the proper equipment and methods. You should never try to clean up sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More yourself, as you can put yourself and others in danger of getting sick. A reputable sewage removal company will drain out sewageSewage is wastewater containing biological and chemical cont... More water, clean the space, dry it, and restore it back to its original state.