Complete Category 3 Mitigation
A Category 3 mitigation involves contaminated (black) water and can contain pathogenic, toxigenic, or other harmful agents. It is possible for restoration professionals to safely complete a Category 3 mitigation, but it is necessary to follow every step and paying close attention to all the details while doing so.
It is important to follow this step-by-step guide when dealing with Category 3 water to ensure it is removed safely to prevent any potential danger.
Step 1: Don full PPE
Because of the potential presence of high-risk pathogens you are required to wear full personal protective equipment, including respirators.
Step 2: Identify and locate any hazards
When entering a Category 3 mitigation job, look for any safety hazards that may be present, i.e. electrical wires in water, structural instability, etc.
Step 3: Locate the water source
Locate the source of water and stop any further intrusion if safe to do so.
Step 4: Remove affected furniture
Remove affected furniture and/or protect any other furniture.
Step 5: Apply deodorant
Apply an initial deodorant to control sewage odor if required.
Step 6: Extract water
Remove any standing water by pumping or mopping.
Step 7: Apply a biocide
Note: Ensure you ventilate the area before using disinfectants.
Remove any solid gross contaminants using this method:
- Perform a low pressure rinse with clean water.
- Apply an initial disinfectant clean to all surfaces and scrub with a brush.
- Rinse for a second time with clean water.
- Apply a second disinfectant application.
This will help prevent and stop the growth of microbes.
Step 8: Install air movers
Large capacity air movers should now be installed, approximately every 10-15 feet apart.
Note: Ensure they are all blowing in the same direction.
Step 9: Monitor the job the daily
Monitor and record the drying process daily to keep accurate records.
Step 10: Clean and sanitize
Clean and disinfect all surfaces again with a biocide.
Step 11: Replace all contents
Once dry, replace all cleaned contents that were removed, carpets, furniture, etc.
