Five Lesser-Known Dangers of Plumbing

Plumbers often need to access small spaces to make plumbing repairs.

Most people have hired a plumber or done plumbing work, as plumbing systems are prone to issues year-round. Though most plumbing jobs are simple, the profession can come with various dangers. Homeowners should be aware of these dangers so that if they ever attempt plumbing work without professional help, they can do so safely.

Tight spaces

Plumbers often need to access small spaces to make plumbing repairs. Spending hours in a crawl space can lead to pains and injuries, such as pinched nerves in the upper back. Developing a stretching program to improve flexibility and make fitting into small spaces more comfortable is essential. It’s also advisable to take breaks and not stay in uncomfortable positions for too long. If a space is too complicated to reach, consulting a professional may be best to avoid injury.

Mold

There are many different types of mold, with mycotoxins being some of the most dangerous. Mycotoxins are found in mold spores and can infect all of the organs in the body. Exposure to these molds usually happens through accidental inhalation or ingestion, and their toxins can cause illness, damage to the nervous system, and even changes in behavior and convulsions. Anyone performing plumbing work should wear gloves, masks, and other safety equipment to avoid mold exposure. If mold is found in a home, treat it immediately to avoid grave consequences.

Loud sounds

Pipes, electric equipment, and banging tools make plumbing a noisy job. It’s easy to forget how much damage one loud noise can do, as there usually isn’t immediate pain or signs of hearing loss. However, one in three plumbers experience hearing loss due to sudden, loud noises. Like in any noisy environment, wearing ear protection is crucial when doing a plumbing job.

Chemicals

Sealants, VCC primers and cement, plumbing thread sealants, drain cleaners, and calcium removers are common chemicals used in plumbing work and are highly toxic, so they should be handled with care and kept away from the eyes. Wear gloves and other protective measures when working with any chemicals. Even if the protective clothing is uncomfortable, such as goggles or long sleeves, preventing irreversible accidents is well worth the effort.

Stress

Plumbing is stressful, whether from exposure to mold and debris, difficult employees and customers, or workload. This stress can lead to weight gain, irritability, and insomnia, among other conditions. Stress is common in all jobs, but there are several ways to handle it. Once the source of stress is identified, think of ways to reduce it. A problematic employee may need to be let go, or an assistant may need to help handle office work. Regardless, stress from work should not take over anyone’s life and should be managed to achieve a healthy work-life balance.

Solace Plumbing is a licensed commercial and residential plumber with 26 years of experience in Gilbert, Az. We provide the East Valley with a wide range of plumbing services, including 24-hour emergency service. Some of our specialties include plumbing installation and repair, remodeling, natural gas and propane piping, slab leak detection, and full-service repiping. Commercial work includes restaurants, school districts, and tenant improvements. Call Solace Plumbing at 480-630-0224.