Earlier this year, a World Health Organisation technical consultant concluded that inadequate plumbing is likely to have contributed to the spread of COVID-19.
Proper plumbing is an effective measure for reducing the transmission of COVID-19. Just a few simple changes to your bathroom could prevent a string of infections. Find out in this article how plumbing increases the transmission of COVID-19, and what you can do to reduce it.
How Does Inadequate Plumbing Increase Transmission of Covid-19?
In 2003, the World Health Organisation found that defects in the plumbing system of a 50-storey building facilitated the transmission of a respiratory virus. 42 people died. It was suggested that droplets from the organic waste of those who were infected entered the air supply via defective sewage/drainage systems that had strong upward air flows.
There is evidence to suggest that the same process is occurring with COVID-19. Plumbing and drainage systems with strong upwards airflow, inadequate traps and non-functional water seals are infecting the air that circulates around a building.
In areas where it is difficult to separate buildings and sewage, viruses can spread simply by extractor fans sucking viral-loaded sewage particles into the home.
Even if you are to completely self-isolate, the air you breathe in your isolated space could become infected with the virus due to an inadequate plumbing system. The odds of this happening increase dramatically if somebody else in your household becomes infected.
How Do You Prevent Transmission of Covid-19 Through a Plumbing and Drainage System?
A few simple tweaks to your plumbing and drainage system will reduce the transmission of COVID-19 in your home.
- Identify and unclog any blockages. Systems that block regularly can cause backpressure.
- Install U-bends of refurbish/repair any that are old or damaged. Every bathroom or kitchen in your home should have a U-bend.
- Check the water seals in u-bends are functioning correctly and at the recommended level.
- Ensure the ventilation you use is suitable for use with your plumbing system.
- Seal all cracks in pipes and appliances.
- Address any foul smells coming from your plumbing system. Foul smells usually indicate a problem.
All of these preventative measures should be carried out by plumbing and drainage professionals. Wildon Waste offer a comprehensive range of domestic and commercial plumbing services to customers in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire and the rest of the UK.
With over 20 years of experience in the industry, we possess the skills, knowledge and equipment to ensure your plumbing and drainage systems are sufficient throughout your property.
To help protect your home from the spread of COVID-19, get in touch with our team today
