Background
In many homes where repairs are being project managed by Fletcher EQR there is a problem of silt build-up under the house. This poses a number of issues for contractors, including its safe removal and the potential exposure to bacteria, virus, mould and fungi that may be present. It is quite likely that soil, silt or liquefied material in some areas has been contaminated with sewage. All silt should be considered contaminated unless tested and proven otherwise. EQR is currently working on an effective way to either make safe or remove silt from under floors. The process is in the test phase at the moment and is focused around either neutralising or removing the silt without contractors having to be in direct contact with it.
Bacteria, viruses and parasites The main health risks from contaminated silt are gastro-intestinal illnesses, including E.Coli, Salmonella and Campylobacter. Other potential health hazards include skin infections, leptospirosis and viral illnesses such as hepatitis. Workers will be most at risk of coming into contact with bacteria through swallowing or from direct contact with skin (e.g. facial splashes). Broken skin is another avenue for bacterial infection.
Moulds and fungi Moulds, fungi and some bacteria favour damp conditions, and can be found where water has leaked into houses from places where wet silt has been in contact with house structures such as wooden floors or piles. Moulds and fungi produce tiny particles called spores. These can easily become airborne when mouldy material is disturbed or in dusty/windy environments. Some moulds also produce toxins that can be a danger to health. Moulds and fungi can cause a hacking cough, respiratory problems, nose or throat irritation, nasal and sinus congestion, eye irritation, allergic reactions or skin rashes/irritation, and can worsen pre-existing asthma. How to minimise contact with bacteria, viruses, moulds and fungi
- Do not enter under-floor areas where there are visible signs of mould or fungi.
- Where mould or fungi are not present and entry is required, minimise the time spent under houses.
- Avoid direct contact with silt, especially if it is wet,, and avoid areas contaminated with mould or fungi.
- The appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn including full-covering disposable overalls, waterproof gloves, gumboots and a respirator. A P2 or P3 particulate disposable face mask suitable for biological aerosols should be used.
- Never eat, drink, smoke or bite your nails while carrying out any work where contact with silt, moulds or fungi is required.
- During work breaks, remove PPE, wash hands and/or use hand sanitiser before eating, drinking or smoking.
- When working inside buildings, ensure adequate ventilation by opening windows and doors.
- Consider using a fresh air blower and trunking (ducts/hoses connected to the blower) if working in poorly ventilated spaces.
- After work is completed, take a shower, place dirty overalls carefully in a separate bag to avoid cross contamination and if re-usable, wash them separately from other clothes in hot water and detergent.
If a worker comes into contact with silt, moulds or fungi and feels unwell, that person should seek medical advice and tell the General Practitioner (GP) about where they were working and what they were doing. All incidents of illness from contaminated silt must be reported to Fletcher EQR within 24 hours. If you have any questions or concerns about working with or near contaminated silt or any other Health and Safety matter please contact the EQR Health and Safety Support Team healthandsafetysupport@eqr.co.nz