Deodorization

Importance of Deodorization in Sewage Backup Cleanup

Importance of Deodorization in Sewage Backup Cleanup


Deodorization is a crucial step in sewage backup cleanup that often goes overlooked. When sewage backs up into a property, it brings with it strong and unpleasant odors that can linger long after the visible mess has been cleaned up. These odors are not only offensive but can also pose health risks to those exposed to them.


Proper deodorization is essential to not only eliminate these foul smells but also to ensure that the space is safe and habitable again. The use of professional deodorizing agents and equipment can effectively neutralize the odors at their source, rather than simply masking them with perfumes. This helps to create a clean and healthy environment for both the occupants of the property and the restoration workers.


In addition to improving the overall indoor air quality, deodorization also plays a key role in preventing the growth of mold and bacteria. These microorganisms thrive in damp and dirty environments, such as those created by sewage backups, and can further exacerbate the odors and pose serious health risks to those exposed. By thoroughly deodorizing the affected area, you can help to inhibit the growth of these harmful organisms and create a safer living or working space.


Ultimately, deodorization is a critical component of sewage backup cleanup that should not be overlooked. By investing in professional deodorization services, you can ensure that your property is not only clean and sanitary but also free from the lingering odors that can make it uninhabitable. So, next time youre dealing with a sewage backup, remember the importance of deodorization in ensuring a thorough and successful cleanup.

Common Techniques for Deodorizing Sewage Backup


Deodorizing sewage backup is a crucial step in restoring a property after a sewage backup incident. The foul odors that come with sewage backup can be overwhelming and unpleasant, making it important to address the issue promptly and effectively.


There are several common techniques that can be used to deodorize sewage backup. One common method is using commercial deodorizers specifically designed for sewage odors. These deodorizers are formulated to neutralize the strong odors associated with sewage backup, leaving the affected area smelling fresh and clean.


Another effective technique is using natural deodorizers such as baking soda or white vinegar. These household items are known for their ability to absorb and neutralize odors, making them a cost-effective and eco-friendly option for deodorizing sewage backup.


In some cases, professional deodorization equipment such as ozone generators or air scrubbers may be necessary to effectively deodorize sewage backup. These machines work by circulating ozone or filtering out odors, leaving the air in the affected area clean and odor-free.


It is important to note that deodorizing sewage backup is just one step in the restoration process. It is crucial to address the root cause of the sewage backup and properly clean and disinfect the affected area to prevent further issues such as mold growth or contamination.


Overall, deodorizing sewage backup requires a combination of techniques and products to effectively eliminate odors and restore a property to its pre-loss condition. By addressing the issue promptly and thoroughly, property owners can ensure a safe and healthy environment for themselves and their occupants.

Professional Deodorization Services for Sewage Backup Cleanup


Dealing with sewage backup can be a nightmare for any homeowner or business owner. Not only is it unpleasant and unsanitary, but the lingering odor can be difficult to get rid of. Thats where professional deodorization services come in.


Professional deodorization services specialize in eliminating odors caused by sewage backup, using advanced techniques and equipment to ensure that the smell is completely eradicated. These services go beyond just masking the odor with air fresheners, instead targeting the source of the smell and neutralizing it effectively.


By hiring a professional deodorization service for sewage backup cleanup, you can rest assured that your property will be left smelling fresh and clean. These experts have the knowledge and experience to tackle even the toughest odors, leaving your space smelling like new.


So, if youre dealing with the aftermath of a sewage backup and are struggling to get rid of the foul smell, consider hiring a professional deodorization service. They will take care of the cleanup and ensure that your property is odor-free, allowing you to breathe easy once again.

Safety Precautions for Deodorizing Sewage Backup Areas


When dealing with a sewage backup, it is important to take safety precautions to ensure that the area is properly deodorized and free from harmful bacteria. Sewage backups can pose serious health risks, so it is essential to approach the situation with caution.


First and foremost, it is crucial to wear protective gear such as gloves, a mask, and goggles when deodorizing a sewage backup area. This will help prevent exposure to harmful bacteria and pathogens that may be present in the sewage.


Next, make sure to properly ventilate the area by opening windows and using fans to circulate fresh air. This will help reduce the strong odor associated with sewage backups and improve air quality in the space.


When deodorizing the area, avoid using harsh chemicals that may further contaminate the space. Instead, opt for natural deodorizing agents such as baking soda, vinegar, or essential oils. These products are effective at neutralizing odors without posing additional health risks.


It is also important to thoroughly clean and disinfect the area after deodorizing to prevent the spread of bacteria. Use a disinfectant solution and hot water to clean surfaces and ensure that all traces of sewage are removed.


By following these safety precautions for deodorizing sewage backup areas, you can effectively eliminate odors and protect yourself from potential health hazards. Remember to always prioritize safety when dealing with sewage backups to ensure a clean and healthy environment.

Importance of Deodorization in Sewage Backup Cleanup

 

Close up of mold on a strawberry
Penicillium mold growing on a clementine

A mold (US, PH) or mould (UK, CW) is one of the structures that certain fungi can form. The dust-like, colored appearance of molds is due to the formation of spores containing fungal secondary metabolites. The spores are the dispersal units of the fungi.[1][2] Not all fungi form molds. Some fungi form mushrooms or ascomata; others grow as single cells, and are called microfungi (for example, yeasts).

A large and taxonomically diverse number of fungal species form molds. The growth of hyphae results in discoloration and a fuzzy appearance, especially on food.[3] The network of these tubular branching hyphae, called a mycelium, is considered a single organism. The hyphae are generally transparent, so the mycelium appears like very fine, fluffy white threads over the surface. Cross-walls (septa) may delimit connected compartments along the hyphae, each containing one or multiple, genetically identical nuclei. The dusty texture of many molds is caused by profuse production of asexual spores (conidia) formed by differentiation at the ends of hyphae. The mode of formation and shape of these spores is traditionally used to classify molds.[4] Many of these spores are colored, making the fungus much more obvious to the human eye at this stage in its life-cycle.

Molds are microbes that do not form a specific taxonomic or phylogenetic grouping, but can be found in the divisions Zygomycota and Ascomycota. In the past, most molds were classified within the Deuteromycota.[5] Mold was the common name for water molds or slime molds, which were formerly classified as fungi.[6][7][8]

Molds cause biodegradation of natural materials, which can be unwanted when it becomes food spoilage or damage to property. They also play important roles in biotechnology and food science in the production of various pigments, foods, beverages, antibiotics, pharmaceuticals and enzymes.[9] Some diseases of animals and humans can be caused by certain molds: disease may result from allergic sensitivity to mold spores, from growth of pathogenic molds within the body, or from the effects of ingested or inhaled toxic compounds (mycotoxins) produced by molds.[1]

Biology

[edit]
Spinellus fusiger growing on the mushroom Mycena haematopus

There are thousands of known species of mold fungi with diverse life-styles including saprotrophs, mesophiles, psychrophiles and thermophiles, and a very few opportunistic pathogens of humans.[10] They all require moisture for growth and some live in aquatic environments. Like all fungi, molds derive energy not through photosynthesis but from the organic matter on which they live, utilizing heterotrophy. Typically, molds secrete hydrolytic enzymes, mainly from the hyphal tips. These enzymes degrade complex biopolymers such as starch, cellulose, and lignin into simpler substances that can be absorbed by the hyphae. In this way, molds play a major role in the decomposition of organic material, enabling the recycling of nutrients throughout ecosystems. Many molds also synthesize mycotoxins and siderophores that, together with lytic enzymes, inhibit the growth of competing microorganisms. Molds can also grow on stored food for animals and humans, making the food unpalatable or toxic, and are thus a major source of food losses and illness.[11] Many strategies for food preservation (salting, pickling, jams, bottling, freezing, drying) are intended to prevent or slow mold growth as well as the growth of other microbes.

Molds reproduce by producing large numbers of small spores,[10] that may contain a single nucleus or be multinucleate. Mold spores can be asexual (the products of mitosis) or sexual (the products of meiosis); many species can produce both types. Some molds produce small, hydrophobic spores that are adapted for wind dispersal and may remain airborne for long periods; in some the cell walls are darkly pigmented, providing resistance to damage by ultraviolet radiation. Other mold spores have slimy sheaths and are more suited to water dispersal. Mold spores are often spherical or ovoid single cells, but can be multicellular and variously shaped. Spores may cling to clothing or fur; some are able to survive extremes of temperature and pressure.

Although molds can grow on dead organic matter everywhere in nature, their presence is visible to the unaided eye only when they form large colonies. A mold colony does not consist of discrete organisms but is an interconnected network of hyphae called a mycelium. All growth occurs at hyphal tips, with cytoplasm and organelles flowing forwards as the hyphae advance over or through new food sources. Nutrients are absorbed at the hyphal tip. In artificial environments such as buildings, humidity and temperature are often stable enough to foster the growth of mold colonies, which are often visible as a downy or furry coating growing on food or other surfaces.

Few molds can begin growing at temperatures of 4 °C (39 °F) or below, so food is typically refrigerated to this temperature. When conditions do not enable growth to take place, molds can remain alive in a dormant state within a large range of temperatures that depends on the species. The many different mold species vary enormously in their tolerance for temperature and humidity extremes. Certain molds can survive harsh conditions such as the snow-covered soils of Antarctica, refrigeration, highly acidic solvents, anti-bacterial soap, and even petroleum products such as jet fuel.[12]: 22 

Xerophilic molds are able to grow in relatively dry, salty, or sugary environments, where water activity (aw) is less than 0.85; other molds need more moisture.[13]

Common molds

[edit]
Spores from green mold growing on an orange, 1000× wet mount

Common genera of molds include:

Food production

[edit]

The Kōji molds are a group of Aspergillus species, notably Aspergillus oryzae, and secondarily A. sojae, that have been cultured in eastern Asia for many centuries. They are used to ferment a soybean and wheat mixture to make soybean paste and soy sauce. Koji molds break down the starch in rice, barley, sweet potatoes, etc., a process called saccharification, in the production of sake, shōchū and other distilled spirits. Koji molds are also used in the preparation of Katsuobushi.

Red rice yeast is a product of the mold Monascus purpureus grown on rice, and is common in Asian diets. The yeast contains several compounds collectively known as monacolins, which are known to inhibit cholesterol synthesis.[14] A study has shown that red rice yeast used as a dietary supplement, combined with fish oil and healthy lifestyle changes, may help reduce "bad" cholesterol as effectively as certain commercial statin drugs.[15] Nonetheless, other work has shown it may not be reliable (perhaps due to non-standardization) and even toxic to liver and kidneys.[16]

Some sausages, such as salami, incorporate starter cultures of molds [17] to improve flavor and reduce bacterial spoilage during curing. Penicillium nalgiovense, for example, may appear as a powdery white coating on some varieties of dry-cured sausage.

Other molds that have been used in food production include:

Pharmaceuticals from molds

[edit]
Molds on a Petri dish

Alexander Fleming's accidental discovery of the antibiotic penicillin involved a Penicillium mold then called Penicillium rubrum (although the species was later established to be Penicillium rubens).[18][19][20] Fleming continued to investigate penicillin, showing that it could inhibit various types of bacteria found in infections and other ailments, but he was unable to produce the compound in amounts large enough for the production of a medicine.[21] His work was expanded by a team at Oxford University: Clutterbuck, Lovell, and Raistrick, who began to work on the problem in 1931. This team was also unable to produce the pure compound in large amounts, and found that the purification process diminished its effectiveness and negated its anti-bacterial properties.[21]

Howard Florey, Ernst Chain, Norman Heatley, Edward Abraham, also all at Oxford, continued the work.[21] They enhanced and developed the concentration technique by using organic solutions rather than water, and created the "Oxford Unit" to measure penicillin concentration within a solution. They managed to purify the solution, increasing its concentration by 45–50 times, and found that a higher concentration was possible. Experiments were conducted and the results published in 1941, though the quantities of penicillin produced were not always high enough for the treatments required.[21] As this was during the Second World War, Florey sought US government involvement. With research teams in the UK and some in the US, industrial-scale production of crystallized penicillin was developed during 1941–1944 by the USDA and by Pfizer.[18][22]

Several statin cholesterol-lowering drugs (such as lovastatin, from Aspergillus terreus) are derived from molds.[23]

The immunosuppressant drug cyclosporine, used to suppress the rejection of transplanted organs, is derived from the mold Tolypocladium inflatum.

Health effects

[edit]

Molds are ubiquitous, and mold spores are a common component of household and workplace dust; however, when mold spores are present in large quantities, they can present a health hazard to humans, potentially causing allergic reactions and respiratory problems.[24]

Some molds also produce mycotoxins that can pose serious health risks to humans and animals. Some studies claim that exposure to high levels of mycotoxins can lead to neurological problems and, in some cases, death.[25] Prolonged exposure, e.g., daily home exposure, may be particularly harmful. Research on the health impacts of mold has not been conclusive.[26] The term "toxic mold" refers to molds that produce mycotoxins, such as Stachybotrys chartarum, and not to all molds in general.[27]

Mold on a grapefruit under the microscope

Molds can also pose a hazard to human and animal health when they are consumed following the growth of certain mold species in stored food. Some species produce toxic secondary metabolites, collectively termed mycotoxins, including aflatoxins, ochratoxins, fumonisins, trichothecenes, citrinin, and patulin. These toxic properties may be used for the benefit of humans when the toxicity is directed against other organisms; for example, penicillin adversely affects the growth of Gram-positive bacteria (e.g. Clostridium species), certain spirochetes and certain fungi.[28]

Growth in buildings and homes

[edit]
Moldy housecorner from outside and inside

Mold growth in buildings generally occurs as fungi colonize porous building materials, such as wood.[29] Many building products commonly incorporate paper, wood products, or solid wood members, such as paper-covered drywall, wood cabinets, and insulation. Interior mold colonization can lead to a variety of health problems as microscopic airborne reproductive spores, analogous to tree pollen, are inhaled by building occupants. High quantities of indoor airborne spores as compared to exterior conditions are strongly suggestive of indoor mold growth.[30] Determination of airborne spore counts is accomplished by way of an air sample, in which a specialized pump with a known flow rate is operated for a known period of time. To account for background levels, air samples should be drawn from the affected area, a control area, and the exterior.

The air sampler pump draws in air and deposits microscopic airborne particles on a culture medium. The medium is cultured in a laboratory and the fungal genus and species are determined by visual microscopic observation. Laboratory results also quantify fungal growth by way of a spore count for comparison among samples. The pump operation time is recorded and when multiplied by pump flow rate results in a specific volume of air obtained. Although a small volume of air is actually analyzed, common laboratory reports extrapolate the spore count data to estimate spores that would be present in a cubic meter of air.[31]

Mold spores are drawn to specific environments, making it easier for them to grow. These spores will usually only turn into a full-blown outbreak if certain conditions are met.[32] Various practices can be followed to mitigate mold issues in buildings, the most important of which is to reduce moisture levels that can facilitate mold growth.[27] Air filtration reduces the number of spores available for germination, especially when a High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter is used. A properly functioning AC unit also reduces the relative humidity in rooms.[33] The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) currently recommends that relative humidity be maintained below 60%, ideally between 30% and 50%, to inhibit mold growth.[34]

Eliminating the moisture source is the first step at fungal remediation. Removal of affected materials may also be necessary for remediation, if materials are easily replaceable and not part of the load-bearing structure. Professional drying of concealed wall cavities and enclosed spaces such as cabinet toekick spaces may be required. Post-remediation verification of moisture content and fungal growth is required for successful remediation. Many contractors perform post-remediation verification themselves, but property owners may benefit from independent verification. Left untreated, mold can potentially cause serious cosmetic and structural damage to a property.[35]

Use in art

[edit]

Various artists have used mold in various artistic fashions. Daniele Del Nero, for example, constructs scale models of houses and office buildings and then induces mold to grow on them, giving them an unsettling, reclaimed-by-nature look.[36] Stacy Levy sandblasts enlarged images of mold onto glass, then allows mold to grow in the crevasses she has made, creating a macro-micro portrait.[37] Sam Taylor-Johnson has made a number of time-lapse films capturing the gradual decay of classically arranged still lifes.[38]

See also

[edit]
  • Bioaerosol – Airborne particles containing living organisms
  • Decay – Process in which organic substances are broken down into simpler organic matter
  • Indoor mold – Fungal growth that develops on wet materials
  • Medicinal fungi – Fungi that can be used to develop medications
  • Mildew – Form of fungus
  • Mold mite – Species of mite
  • Mycorrhiza – Fungus-plant symbiotic association
  • Oomycete – Fungus-like eukaryotic microorganism
  • Slime mold
  • Water mold
 

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b Moore D, Robson GD, Trinci AP, eds. (2011). 21st Century Guidebook to Fungi (1st ed.). Cambridge University Press. ISBN 978-0521186957.
  2. ^ Madigan M, Martinko J, eds. (2005). Brock Biology of Microorganisms (11th ed.). Prentice Hall. ISBN 978-0-13-144329-7. OCLC 57001814.
  3. ^ Morgan, Mike. "Moulds". Microscopy UK. Archived from the original on 28 March 2019. Retrieved 26 June 2012.
  4. ^ Chiba University, Japan. "Fungus and Actinomycetes Gallery". Chiba University Medical Mycology Research Center. Archived from the original on 19 July 2012. Retrieved 26 June 2012.
  5. ^ Hibbett DS, Binder M, Bischoff JF, Blackwell M, Cannon PF, Eriksson OE, et al. (2007). "A higher level phylogenetic classification of the Fungi" (PDF). Mycological Research. 111 (5): 509–547. CiteSeerX 10.1.1.626.9582. doi:10.1016/j.mycres.2007.03.004. PMID 17572334. S2CID 4686378. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2009-03-26.
  6. ^ "Slime Molds". herbarium.usu.edu. Utah State University. Archived from the original on 20 February 2020. Retrieved 21 April 2020.
  7. ^ "Slime Molds: Myxomycetes" (PDF). Cornell University. Retrieved 21 April 2020.
  8. ^ "Introduction to the Oomycota". ucmp.berkeley.edu. UC Berkeley. Archived from the original on 6 May 2020. Retrieved 21 April 2020.
  9. ^ Toma, Maria Afroz; Nazir, K. H. M. Nazmul Hussain; Mahmud, Md Muket; Mishra, Pravin; Ali, Md Kowser; Kabir, Ajran; Shahid, Md Ahosanul Haque; Siddique, Mahbubul Pratik; Alim, Md Abdul (2021). "Isolation and Identification of Natural Colorant Producing Soil-Borne Aspergillus niger from Bangladesh and Extraction of the Pigment". Foods. 10 (6): 1280. doi:10.3390/foods10061280. PMC 8227025. PMID 34205202.
  10. ^ a b Ryan KJ, Ray CG, eds. (2004). Sherris Medical Microbiology (4th ed.). McGraw Hill. pp. 633–8. ISBN 978-0-8385-8529-0.
  11. ^ Wareing, Peter. "The Fungal Infection of Agricultural Produce and the Production of Mycotoxins". European Mycotoxins Awareness Network. Archived from the original on 19 October 2013. Retrieved 3 August 2013.
  12. ^ Malloch, D. (1981). Moulds : their isolation, cultivation and identification. Toronto Canada: Univ. of Toronto Press. ISBN 978-0-8020-2418-3.
  13. ^ Pitt JI, Hocking AD (2009). "Xerophiles". Fungi and Food Spoilage. London: Springer. pp. 339–355. doi:10.1007/978-0-387-92207-2_9. ISBN 978-0-387-92206-5.
  14. ^ "Red yeast rice (Monascus purpureus)". Mayo Clinic. 2009-09-01. Archived from the original on 2010-02-06. Retrieved 2010-02-01.
  15. ^ "Study: Red Rice Yeast Helps Cut Bad Cholesterol". National Public Radio. 2008-07-01. Archived from the original on 2010-02-12. Retrieved 2010-02-01.
  16. ^ Red Yeast Rice Preparations: Are They Suitable Substitutions for Statins?, Dujovne, CA, Am J Med. 2017 Oct;130(10):1148-1150. doi: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2017.05.013. Epub 2017 Jun 7.
  17. ^ Sunesen LO, Stahnke LH (November 2003). "Mould starter cultures for dry sausages—selection, application and effects". Meat Science. 65 (3): 935–948. doi:10.1016/S0309-1740(02)00281-4. PMID 22063673.
  18. ^ a b "The Nobel Prize website". Archived from the original on 19 May 2012. Retrieved 27 June 2012.
  19. ^ Houbraken, Jos; Frisvad, Jens C.; Samson, Robert A. (2011). "Fleming's penicillin producing strain is not Penicillium chrysogenum but P. rubens". IMA Fungus. 2 (1): 87–95. doi:10.5598/imafungus.2011.02.01.12. PMC 3317369. PMID 22679592.
  20. ^ Houbraken, J.; Frisvad, J.C.; Seifert, K.A.; Overy, D.P.; Tuthill, D.M.; Valdez, J.G.; Samson, R.A. (2012-12-31). "New penicillin-producing Penicillium species and an overview of section Chrysogena". Persoonia - Molecular Phylogeny and Evolution of Fungi. 29 (1): 78–100. doi:10.3767/003158512X660571. PMC 3589797. PMID 23606767.
  21. ^ a b c d "Award Ceremony Speech". Nobel Prizes and Laureates. Nobel Media. Archived from the original on 27 May 2014. Retrieved 26 May 2014.
  22. ^ "Pfizer's work on penicillin for World War II becomes a National Historic Chemical Landmark". American Chemical Society. June 12, 2008. Archived from the original on August 8, 2016. Retrieved June 14, 2016.
  23. ^ Cox, Russell J.; Simpson, Thomas J. (2010). "Fungal Type I Polyketides". Comprehensive Natural Products II. p. 355. doi:10.1016/B978-008045382-8.00017-4. ISBN 9780080453828. Lovastatin (also known as mevinolin) is produced by Aspergillus terreus
  24. ^ Gent, Janneane F; Ren, Ping; Belanger, Kathleen; Triche, Elizabeth; Bracken, Michael B; Holford, Theodore R; Leaderer, Brian P (December 2002). "Levels of household mold associated with respiratory symptoms in the first year of life in a cohort at risk for asthma". Environmental Health Perspectives. 110 (12): A781–6. doi:10.1289/ehp.021100781. ISSN 0091-6765. PMC 1241132. PMID 12460818.
  25. ^ Empting, L. D. (2009). "Neurologic and neuropsychiatric syndrome features of mold and mycotoxin exposure". Toxicology and Industrial Health. 25 (9–10): 577–81. Bibcode:2009ToxIH..25..577E. doi:10.1177/0748233709348393. PMID 19854819. S2CID 27769836.
  26. ^ Money, Nicholas (2004). Carpet Monsters and Killer Spores: A Natural History of Toxic Mold. Oxford, UK: Oxford University Press. pp. 178. ISBN 978-0-19-517227-0.
  27. ^ a b Indoor Environmental Quality: Dampness and Mold in Buildings Archived 2020-05-07 at the Wayback Machine. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. August 1, 2008.
  28. ^ Saunders Comprehensive Veterinary Dictionary, Blood and Studdert, 1999
  29. ^ Fairey, Philip; Chandra, Subrato; Moyer, Neil. "Mold Growth". Florida Solar Energy Center. University of Central Florida. Archived from the original on 27 August 2019. Retrieved 19 August 2019.
  30. ^ IICRC S500 Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Water Damage Restoration
  31. ^ "Prestige EnviroMicrobiology, Inc". prestige-em.com. Archived from the original on 2017-03-01. Retrieved 2018-03-26.
  32. ^ "A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home". EPA. 13 August 2014.
  33. ^ "Facts About Mold". www.aiha.org. Retrieved 2018-03-26.
  34. ^ "A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home". US EPA. 13 August 2014. Archived from the original on January 6, 2020. Click on "Moisture and Mold Prevention and Control Tips".
  35. ^ "What is Mold?". gtamoldremoval.com. 14 September 2024.
  36. ^ Solon, Olivia (30 November 2010). "Artist uses mould to create decayed architectural models". Wired UK. Archived from the original on 19 August 2019. Retrieved 19 August 2019.
  37. ^ "The Art of Mould". Discard Studies. 2 January 2012. Retrieved May 11, 2015.
  38. ^ "Still Life, 2001". Sam Taylor-Johnson. Archived from the original on 2017-03-24. Retrieved 2017-03-23.
[edit]

 

Dew on a spider web
Water vapor deposits itself in colder surfaces.
Excess moisture in the inside of a home can cause paint in the walls to start peeling off, in this case, paint in the wall of a bathroom.

Moisture is the presence of a liquid, especially water, often in trace amounts. Moisture is defined as water in the adsorbed or absorbed phase.[1] Small amounts of water may be found, for example, in the air (humidity), in foods, and in some commercial products. Moisture also refers to the amount of water vapor present in the air. The soil also includes moisture.[2]

Moisture control in products

[edit]

Control of moisture in products can be a vital part of the process of the product. There is a substantial amount of moisture in what seems to be dry matter. Ranging in products from cornflake cereals to washing powders, moisture can play an important role in the final quality of the product. There are two main aspects of concern in moisture control in products: allowing too much moisture or too little of it. For example, adding some water to cornflake cereal, which is sold by weight, reduces costs and prevents it from tasting too dry, but adding too much water can affect the crunchiness of the cereal and the freshness because water content contributes to bacteria growth. Water content of some foods is also manipulated to reduce the number of calories.

Moisture has different effects on different products, influencing the final quality of the product. Wood pellets, for instance, are made by taking remainders of wood and grinding them to make compact pellets, which are sold as a fuel. They need to have a relatively low water content for combustion efficiency. The more moisture that is allowed in the pellet, the more smoke that will be released when the pellet is burned.

The need to measure water content of products has given rise to a new area of science, aquametry. There are many ways to measure moisture in products, such as different wave measurement (light and audio), electromagnetic fields, capacitive methods, and the more traditional weighing and drying technique.

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Wexler, A. (1965). Humidity and Moisture: Fundamentals and standards. A. Wexler and W.A. Wildhack, editors. Humidity and Moisture: Measurement and Control in Science and Industry. Reinhold Publishing Corporation. p. ix. Retrieved 2024-02-11.
  2. ^ Civeira, G. (2019). Soil Moisture. IntechOpen. p. 4. ISBN 978-1-78985-103-8. Retrieved 2024-02-11.
Plumber
Residential plumber at work
Occupation
Occupation type
Vocational
Activity sectors
Construction
Description
Education required
Apprenticeship
Related jobs
Carpenter, electrician

A plumber is a tradesperson who specializes in installing and maintaining systems used for potable (drinking) water, hot-water production, sewage and drainage in plumbing systems.[1][2]

History

[edit]

The origin of the word "plumber" dates from the Roman Empire.[3][4] Roman roofs used lead in conduits and drain pipes[5] and some were also covered with lead; lead was also used for piping and for making baths.[6] The Latin for lead is plumbum. In medieval times, anyone who worked with lead was referred to as a plumber; this can be seen from an extract about workmen fixing a roof in Westminster Palace; they were referred to as plumbers: "To Gilbert de Westminster, plumber, working about the roof of the pantry of the little hall, covering it with lead, and about various defects in the roof of the little hall".[7]

Plumbing activities

[edit]
Plumber exiting a sewer via a manhole

Years of training and/or experience are needed to become a skilled plumber; some jurisdictions also require that plumbers be licensed.

Common plumbing tasks and skills include:

  • Reading drawings and specifications, to determine the layout of water supply, waste, and venting systems
  • Detecting faults in plumbing appliances and systems, and correctly diagnosing their causes
  • Installing, repairing and maintaining domestic, commercial, and industrial plumbing fixtures and systems
  • Locating and marking positions for pipe connections, passage holes, and fixtures in walls and floors
  • Measuring, cutting, bending, and threading pipes using hand and power tools or machines
  • Joining pipes and fittings together using soldering techniques, compression fittings, threaded fittings, solvent weld, crimp and push-fit fittings.
  • Testing pipes for leaks using air or water pressure gauges
  • Paying attention, in all work undertaken, to legal regulations and safety issues
  • Ensuring that all safety standards and building regulations are met.

Australia

[edit]

Plumbing work is defined in the Australian Standards (AS3500) Regulations 2013 and refers to any operation, work or process in connection with installation, removal, demolition, replacement, alteration, maintenance or repair to the system of pipes and fixtures that conveys clean water into and liquid waste out of a building.

To become a licensed plumber a four-year apprenticeship and a Certificate III in Plumbing is required. As part of this course, instruction in the basics of gas fitting will be undertaken. Upon completion, these basics in gas fitting will allow the plumber to not only apply for their plumbing license but also an interim gas license, and carry out gas work under the supervision of a fully qualified gas fitter.

To obtain a full gas license from the Department of Mines and Energy, the plumber will need to have worked on an interim gas license for a minimum period of twelve months and successfully completed a Certificate IV in Plumbing.

Canada

[edit]

In Canada, licensing requirements differ by province; however, the provinces have pooled resources to develop an Interprovincial Program Guide that developed and now maintains apprenticeship training standards across all provinces. The Red Seal Program, formally known as the Interprovincial Standards Red Seal Program, is a program that sets common standards to assess the skills of tradespeople across Canada.[8] The Red Seal, when affixed to a provincial or territorial trade certificate, indicates that a tradesperson has demonstrated the knowledge required for the national standard in that trade.

Colombia

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Plumbing is not regulated in Colombia, so anyone can provide this service. Plumbers usually learn the trade because their families work in the construction industry, and they specialize in this field, but anyone can legally offer plumbing services. The most popular training institution for trades is SENA, a public school that provides high-quality education, though it is not mandatory.

Ireland

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In Ireland, a four-year apprenticeship plus qualification exam was necessary for someone to practice professionally. Accreditation of businesses is of great help in order to show their credibility and experience in the job.

United Kingdom

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National Vocational Qualifications (NVQ) remained the main form of plumbing qualification until they were superseded in 2008 by the Qualification and Credit Framework (QCF)[9] and then again, in 2015, into the National qualifications frameworks in the United Kingdom. The terms NVQ and SVQ (Scottish Vocational Qualification) are still widely used.[10]

Plumbers in the United Kingdom are required to pass Level 2 and Level 3 vocational requirements of the City and Guilds of London Institute. There are several regulatory bodies in the United Kingdom providing accredited plumbing qualifications, including City and Guilds of London Institute and Pearson PLC.[11]

United States

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Each state and locality may have its own licensing and taxing schemes for plumbers. Some states license journeymen and master plumbers separately, while others license only master plumbers. To become licensed, plumbers must meet standards for training and experience, and in most cases, pass a certification exam.[12] There is no federal law establishing licenses for plumbers.[13]

Dangers

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There are many types of dangers to a plumber. These include electric shock, strains and sprains, cuts and lacerations, bruises and contusions, fractures, burns and scalds, foreign bodies in the eye, and hernias.[14] Working at height or in confined spaces, or working with lead and asbestos are all on-site dangers that plumbers can face.[15]

Infectious disease risks

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Plumbers risk infections[16] when dealing with human waste while repairing sewage systems. Microbes can be excreted in the faecal matter or vomit of the sufferer onto the toilet or sewage pipes. Human waste can contain infectious diseases such as cholera, typhoid, hepatitis, polio, cryptosporidiosis, ascariasis, and schistosomiasis.

Other uses

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The term "White House Plumbers" was a popular name given to the covert White House Special Investigations Unit established on July 24, 1971, during the presidency of Richard Nixon. Their job was to plug intelligence "leaks" in the U.S. Government relating to the Vietnam War (i.e. the Pentagon Papers); hence the term "plumbers".[17]

See also

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References

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  1. ^ Whitney, William D., ed.. "Trade." Def, 7. The Century Dictionary: An Encyclopedic Lexicon of the English Language vol. 8. New York. The Century Co. 1895. 6,415. Print.
  2. ^ Employment and Occupations in the Skilled Trades in Michigan Archived 2017-12-01 at the Wayback Machine, Michigan Department of Technology, Management, and Budget, Bureau of Labor Market Information and Strategic Initiatives (June 2013).
  3. ^ Pulsifer, William H. Notes For a History of Lead, New York University Press, 1888 pp. 132, 158
  4. ^ "plumber (n.)". Online Etymology Dictionary. October 7, 2021. Retrieved October 7, 2021.
  5. ^ Middleton, The Remains of Ancient Rome, Vol. 2, A & C Black, 1892
  6. ^ Historical production and uses of lead. ila-lead.org
  7. ^ EW Wedlake; J Britton (1836). "Westminster Palace". The history of the ancient palace and late Houses of Parliament at Westminster. J B Nichols and son. p. 122. Retrieved 28 June 2010.
  8. ^ "Red Seal Program".
  9. ^ "Plumbing Qualifications in the UK". Local Heroes. Retrieved 27 February 2018.
  10. ^ "Plumbing Qualifications in the UK". Local Heroes. Retrieved 27 February 2018.
  11. ^ "Plumbing Qualifications in the UK". Local Heroes. Retrieved 27 February 2018.
  12. ^ "How to Become a Plumber".
  13. ^ "How to Become a Plumber in the USA". U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. 1 November 2016. Retrieved 1 November 2016.
  14. ^ "Injuries and Accident Causes in Plumbing Operations" United States Department of Labor. 1949
  15. ^ "9 Hazards Plumbers Should be Aware of". 15 January 2018.
  16. ^ "Infectious disease risks associated with occupational exposure: a systematic review of the literature"
  17. ^ "II. The Plumbers". The Atlantic. Retrieved 17 September 2013. In the early evening of June 17, 1971, Henry Kissinger held forth in the Oval Office, telling his President, and John Ehrlichman and Bob Haldeman, all about Daniel Ellsberg. Kissinger's comments were recorded, of course, on the hidden White House taping system, and four years later, a portion of that tape was listened to by the Watergate Special Prosecution Force, which was then investigating the internal White House police unit known as the Plumbers.