**Cleanup and Disinfection: Essential Steps in Sewage Cleanup** When faced with a sewage backup or spill, immediate cleanup and disinfection are crucial to prevent health hazards. Sewage contains harmful bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms that can cause serious illnesses. **Professional Sewage Cleanup Service** Hiring a professional sewage cleanup service is highly recommended. Trained technicians possess specialized equipment and expertise to safely handle contaminated materials and restore your property to its original condition. **Disinfection Process** Disinfection is a vital step in sewage cleanup. It involves applying disinfectants to surfaces and objects that have come into contact with sewage to kill bacteria and viruses. Common disinfectants include chlorine bleach, quaternary ammonium compounds, and hydrogen peroxide. **Will Lime Clean Up Sewage?** Lime is sometimes used as a disinfectant for sewage. However, it is not as effective as commercial disinfectants and should only be used as a temporary measure. Lime can neutralize acids in sewage, but it does not kill all bacteria and viruses. **Steps to Follow for Sewage Cleanup and Disinfection** 1. **Contact a professional sewage cleanup service.** 2. **Isolate the affected area and prevent further contamination.** 3. **Remove contaminated materials, such as carpets, upholstery, and drywall.** 4. **Clean and disinfect all surfaces that have come into contact with sewage.** 5. **Dispose of contaminated materials properly.** **Safety Precautions** When handling sewage, it is essential to wear protective gear, including gloves, boots, and a mask. Avoid direct skin contact with sewage, and wash your hands thoroughly after cleaning. **Health Risks of Untreated Sewage** Untreated sewage poses significant health risks, including: * **Gastrointestinal infections:** E. coli, Salmonella, and other bacteria can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. * **Respiratory infections:** Mold and mildew spores can cause breathing problems and respiratory infections. * **Skin infections:** Contact with sewage can lead to skin rashes and infections. By following these steps and contacting a professional sewage cleanup service, you can ensure that your property is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, minimizing the risk of health hazards.