The 7 Major Hazards in Sewer & Drain Cleaning

The field of sewer and drain cleaning poses several dangers due to the nature of the job. There are seven major hazards to be aware of when cleaning drains and sewers. Any one of these hazards can cause injury or may even result in death. Be aware of all seven hazards while on the job and take every precaution to ensure your safety.

Hazard #1

ELECTRICAL SHOCK: Water and electricity are a deadly combination. The use of any electrical equipment could cause fatal shock if the equipment is not properly grounded, adequately maintained, or if care is not used by the operator. Electrically safe equipment is an absolute necessity.

• Use water-tight or sealable connectors to limit the exposure to excessive moisture
• Wear safety goggles, gloves, and rubber-soled work boots

Hazard #2

CONTRACTING DISEASE: Beware of waterborne bacteria. A technician must be properly inoculated, wear appropriate safety gear, and follow all safety guidelines while performing drain and sewer cleaning. Avoid skin-exposure by wearing coveralls or pants with long-sleeve shirts.

Hazard #3

CHEMICAL DRAIN OPENERS: Blindness and permanent skin damage are possible with some chemical drain openers. It is an absolute necessity to be prepared to deal with chemical drain openers on every service call. Know to flush any contaminations or possible contaminations with water. Appropriate safety gear and proper safety precautions must be followed to avoid injury.

Hazard #4

ROTATING CABLE AND ATTACHMENTS UNDER TORQUE: A finger can be severed, tendons torn, or a wrist broken by a rotating cable. Never wear cloth gloves, loose clothing, or long hair down when operating a cable machine. A rotating cable must be properly controlled and all safety and operating instructions must be followed to avoid injury. Always stay within three feet of the pipe opening with the machine unless additional safety precautions are taken. When removing the cable from a pipe, ensure the machine is completely off when a minimum of three feet is left in the pipe.

Hazard #5

CONFINED SPACE ENTRY: Confined space entry can kill. Always follow OSHA guidelines for confined space entry. A manhole is a confined space. Never enter a confined space without appropriate safety gear.

Hazard #6

HEAVY LIFTING: Improper lifting or attempting to lift too much weight may cause permanent injury. Follow all lift and carry rules from the National Safety Council. Don’t push yourself, if a load is too heavy get help. Make sure to exercise and stretch to help with heavy lifting and other job demands.

Hazard #7

HIGH PRESSURE WATER: High pressure water exposure can cause blindness and permanent injury. All operators of high velocity water jetting equipment must be concerned with injury caused by a high velocity water jet. The jet hose and nozzle should be five to ten feet inside the pipe before water is engaged. If proper safety gear is not worn and all safety precautions are not followed, injury or death may result.