The Health Hazards of Living with a Plumber
Plumbing equipment can be a problem.
Some plumbing equipment has to be stored carefully, to avoid freezing temps. For that reason, plumbers often bring their equipment into the house at night. Unfortunately, the germs ride right in with it. If your plumber has no heated garage to put his equipment in, be sure you disinfect floors frequently. Clean the path any time equipment is brought in or out too. Those germs can quickly be tracked all over the house as people enter and leave.
Check the plumber’s shoes at the door.
Plumbers wear shoe covers in other people’s homes. The problem is, they often work outside, in direct contact with customers’ sewers. When they come home, the blue booties come off. Imagine what’s riding on your favorite plumber’s shoes. It’s a good idea to leave those in the garage too. Either that or provide a special mat to set them on. Don’t forget to wash that mat frequently.
Dressing and undressing your plumber.
Every plumber has days when they come home covered with nasty from head to toe. Be sure your favorite plumber changes his clothes in the garage, especially on those days. Bag the really bad clothes up and wash them immediately. No garage? Have him change in a room without carpeting. That way, you can at least sanitize the floor once he’s done.
What if those plumbing clothes look clean?
How many germs are hanging out on your plumber’s clothing, even when it looks clean? Well, I say, better safe than sorry. Latent germs could rub off on furniture, bedding, etc. Why not be cautious? Ask your plumber to wear clean clothes at home. It shouldn’t have to be said, but you should also insist they take a shower after work. It may be embarrassing to ask, but who wants to sleep with plumbing germs?
Keep surfaces and bedding extra clean.
Even with all the precautions in place, a plumber comes in contact with so many germs, it’s logical to be extra careful. If you have a plumber living with you, it might be a good idea to change the sheets and blankets a little more frequently. Don’t forget to use a sanitizing spray on furniture too. After all, your plumber, like mine, might come in the door occasionally and plop down on the couch without thinking. Plumbing is hard work, after all.
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