Plumbing and Sewage Safety a Priority after a Flood

VITAL COMMUNITY WARNING

Following the major weather event across South East Queensland over the weekend, which has included heavy rainfall and flooding from Maryborough down to Northern New South Wales, health and safety must remain a key priority for homeowners.

Master Plumbers’ Association of Queensland (MPAQ) is warning people not to become complacent and to place plumbing checks at the top of the priority list along with electrical work.

MPAQ President, Mr Kent Vickers, said “checking the property’s plumbing, drainage, gas, and roofing needs to be a priority after such events if public health is to be safeguarded. I would urge people now facing the daunting task of a post-storm and/or flooding clean up to pay particular attention to those key plumbing issues that can impact health and safety.”

Mr Vickers said residents need to contact a licensed Master Plumber to check on:

• Drainage or septic overflows
• Silted or blocked drains
• Damage to gas regulators and/or pipework
• Solar water heater or PV panels on roofs may be damaged during weather events
• Roof/skylight damage or leaks and damage to metal or tiled roofs. 
• Tank water and other alternate water systems should also be checked for debris/contamination.
• Gutter blockages – leaves/debris

Mr Vickers said residents will also need to be cautious of downpipes that are connected to underground storm water drains that may be blocked with silt. Any further rain may overflow from the gutters as the water cannot drain away, flooding the house.

In the case of significant damage, where you may need to replace plumbing fixtures and/or fittings, people should be mindful that all plumbing work will need to be done by a licensed person.

Sewage Safety a Priority

Sewage overflows can occur at home as a result of damaged or blocked drains, backflow from the sewerage system, a damaged septic tank or as a result of flood water containing sewage.

Mr Vickers warned that sewage contains harmful microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. Direct contact with sewage or surfaces contaminated by sewage can result in illnesses.

“People should wear protective clothing, such as rubber gloves, boots, and eye protection when cleaning.”

A licensed plumber will be able to advise if your sewage system is working correctly.

Residents and home owners can contact MPAQ from Monday to Friday on 07 3273 0800 to locate a licensed Master Plumber in their area or visit mpaq.com.au/find-a-plumber.

Consumers are also being told to beware of scammers offering repairs or services in the wake of the wild weather and should call a Master Plumber as they hold the appropriate plumbing QBCC licenses.

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For further information contact:

Penny Cornah
Executive Director
Master Plumbers’ Association of Queensland
0418 724 457

Ernie Kretschmer
Technical Services Manager
Master Plumbers’ Association of Queensland
0418 780 351