Page 627 - The City and Guilds Textbook: Plumbing Book 1 for the Level 3 Apprenticeship (9189), Level 2 Technical Certificate (8202) and Level 2 Diploma (6035)

Chapter 9 Sanitation systems

Hepatitis

There are three known strains of hepatitis that you could contract. They are
known as A, B and C. Whilst not commonly contracted in Britain, the risks are
higher when working in close contact with waste products. Symptoms are flu-
like, which can continue for months and finally turn into liver failure. A ‘healthy
carrier’ may not realise they have the disease until organ failure begins. Normal
precautions in your day-to-day routine will limit your chances of contracting it.

Dermatitis
Dermatitis means ‘skin inflammation’, and in most cases the early stages are
characterised by red, itchy skin, which can be mistaken for eczema. Acute
attacks may result in crusty scales or blisters that results in pussy fluid
discharges. Dermatitis is contracted by coming into contact with hazardous
chemicals in the system. People who discard of chemicals or other harmful
substances down the drain network are putting other people’s health at risk. PPE
is the best way to prevent yourself from harm.

3 SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE

REQUIREMENTS FOR SANITARY

APPLIANCES AND CONNECTING

PIPEWORK SYSTEMS

Like all the systems we have seen in this book, maintenance of AGDS should
be carried out regularly to ensure problem-free operation. This is especially
important with older systems, as some of the materials used in the past corrode
over time, such as cast iron, and others, such as asbestos pipework, may bring
health and safety issues. On larger systems or housing contracts, periodic
maintenance will be carried out to a maintenance schedule that lists the
properties and systems to be checked.

Simple maintenance tasks HEALTH AND SAFETY

The simple tasks that can be performed are described below. ● Always wear
appropriate PPE when
Cleaning out traps using chemicals or
Traps, especially bath and shower traps, accumulate hair and soap residue that cleaning traps, such
will eventually cause slow discharge of water, or even complete blockage. If left, as rubber gloves and
this will eventually begin to smell. eye protection, and
always read the dosage
Kitchen sink traps collect grease; this can be a constant source of problems instructions.
as the grease clings to the waste pipework, making the smooth flow of water ● Never mix different
less likely in the future. These can be cleaned by disconnection from the cleaning chemicals
appliance and thorough cleaning. Cleaning chemicals can be used but should be as this could result
administered with caution as some can burn the skin on contact. in dangerous fumes
developing and even
explosive mixtures.

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