Hurricane Response Guide for Environmental Public Health Professionals
sewers, or private property drains. Be familiar with the local jurisdiction and the types of drainage systems utilized. Understand that the network of drainpipes and systems can transport spilled wastewater in various directions and over long distances. 5. Block drains to minimize the extent of the affected area. Use sandbags or parapets to block drains. Prioritize blocking efforts based on the type of drains, focusing on those that connect with surface water first. 6. Communicate the possible hazard to the public. Use caution tape and signage to quickly mark off the affected area. Inform the public about the sewage spill and the potential health risks associated with the contaminated area. 7. Pump sewage off the ground. Use appropriate pumping equipment to remove as much sewage as possible from the affected area. Dispose of the pumped sewage according to state, tribal, local, and territorial (STLT) regulations. 8. Treat the affected area. Spread powdered lime over the entire spill area to help neutralize odors and bacteria. Alternatively, or in addition to lime, treat hard surfaces with calcium hypochlorite (HTH) or a bleach/water solution to disinfect the area. Remove contaminated materials, such as playground sand, to prevent further contamination. 9. Allow the area to air dry. Let the affected area air dry for at least a day to help reduce moisture and promote evaporation of remaining contaminants. 10. Clean up the area. Rake up any excess lime, HTH, or contaminated materials, and place them in heavy-duty garbage bags for proper disposal. Dispose of the bags according to STLT regulations. 11. Revegetate and restabilize the area. If the affected area includes soil or landscaping, revegetate the area with appropriate plants or grass to help restore the environment and prevent erosion. Ensure that the area is stabilized correctly to minimize the risk of future contamination or environmental damage. Indoor Cleanup of Sewage Spill Wear rubber boots and gloves. Disinfect all mops, sponges, and brushes. Wash all clothes worn during cleanup separately from other laundry. Clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces. Plumbing fixtures and vinyl, metal, wood, and concrete surfaces should be cleaned thoroughly with hot water and a mild detergent, such as dish detergent, and then disinfected with a bleach solution. Mix one part of liquid household bleach with 10 parts of water (1:10). Thoroughly dampen contaminated surfaces and allow them to air dry. Remove and discard porous materials. Upholstered furniture, loose rugs, and drapery cannot be salvaged and must be appropriately discarded. Remove and replace all lath, plaster, plasterboard, and drywall that is saturated to the point of being soft to the touch. Wall-to-wall carpeting and carpet pads cannot be reliably disinfected and must be removed and sent to a local transfer station.
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