Sewage cleanup is a task that should not be taken lightly. The potential health risks associated with contact with sewage are significant. Additionally, sewage can also contain harmful fumes that can pose a health risk.
### Health Risks of Sewage Cleanup
Contact with sewage can lead to a variety of health risks, including:
– **Gastrointestinal problems** such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
– **Skin infections** such as rashes, boils, and cellulitis
– **Eye infections** such as conjunctivitis and uveitis
– **Respiratory infections** such as bronchitis and pneumonia
– **Other health problems** such as fever, chills, headache, and fatigue
Children are more susceptible to the health risks of sewage cleanup than adults.
### Are Sewage Fumes Harmful?
Sewage fumes can contain a variety of harmful chemicals, including:
– **Hydrogen sulfide**
– **Ammonia**
– **Methane**
– **Carbon monoxide**
Exposure to these chemicals can lead to a variety of health problems, including:
– **Eye irritation**
– **Respiratory irritation**
– **Headache**
– **Nausea**
– **Vomiting**
– **Dizziness**
– **Loss of consciousness**
In some cases, exposure to sewage fumes can be fatal.
### If You Are Exposed to Sewage
If you are exposed to sewage, it is important to take the following steps:
1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
2. Remove any contaminated clothing and wash it in hot water.
3. Rinse your eyes with clean water for at least 15 minutes.
4. If you have any symptoms of a health problem, seek medical attention immediately.
By taking these steps, you can help to reduce your risk of developing health problems from exposure to sewage.