Plumbing and Sewage Safety a Priority after a Flood

Following the major weather event across North Queensland, which has included heavy rainfall and flooding, 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 that 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 for debris/contamination
• Gutter blockages – leaves/debris
• Water heaters and gas cylinders that may have been damaged by flood waters

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 homeowners can contact MPAQ from Monday to Friday on 07 3273 0800 to locate a licensed Master Plumber in their area or visit www.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.