Reopening After Sewage Backup: What Every Manager Should Know

A sewage backup has caused an imminent health hazard resulting in closure of an operation. What must the manager do prior to re-opening?

Final answer: A manager should conduct thorough cleaning, review operation practices, implement a regular maintenance program and secure approval from local health department prior to reopening after a sewage backup.

Explanation: Prior to reopening after a sewage backup, the manager must take crucial steps to ensure that any health hazards have been addressed. Firstly, thorough deep cleaning and sanitization of the affected area must be conducted to eliminate any harmful pathogens. This should include cleaning of the air conditioning system, as these systems can propagate bacteria and other biofilms if not properly maintained. A course of action could be the same as the store took in the information provided where they ordered a comprehensive cleaning of the air conditioning system and implemented a regular maintenance program. Moreover, the manager should perform a detailed review of the operation’s practices to identify areas that might need improvement or are likely to pose health risks in the future. They can learn from this experience and implement preventative measures to avoid such occurrences. Finally, before reopening, the local health department should be consulted, and its approval must be secured, ensuring that the operation is safe and fit enough to be reopened.

Do you know the necessary steps a manager should take before reopening after a sewage backup?

Yes, before reopening after a sewage backup, a manager should conduct thorough cleaning, review operation practices, implement a regular maintenance program, and secure approval from the local health department.