As an expert in the field of bird poop cleaning, we understand the importance of knowing the potential health hazards associated with dried bird droppings. Dried bird poop can pose a serious risk to human health due to the presence of pathogenic spores that can become airborne when disturbed. In this informative post, we will discuss the dangers of dried bird poop and provide guidance on safe cleanup procedures.
Cryptococcosis and histoplasmosis infections are two common diseases that can be contracted by inhaling pathogenic spores present in bird droppings. These infections primarily occur when the droppings are dry and can easily turn into fine dust particles. Activities such as sweeping or scraping dried bird droppings can disturb them and release these harmful spores into the air, increasing the risk of inhalation.
When it comes to cleaning up dried bird droppings, it is vital to prioritize worker protection to prevent the spread of infective organisms. Here are some precautions that should be taken:
a. Preliminary Consultation: Before starting any cleanup activity, it is crucial to inform the Director of Environmental Management about the proposed plan. They may advise on personal safety measures, such as protective clothing and the proper selection, use, and fitting of respirators.
b. Breathing Protection: When working with accumulated droppings, it is essential to wear a NIOSH-approved respirator with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters capable of excluding particles as small as 0.3 microns. Dust and particle masks do not provide adequate protection for this purpose.
c. Protective Clothing: Disposable coveralls, gloves, boots, and hats should be worn to protect personal clothing from contamination with infective organisms. It is important to seal the interfaces of gloves/sleeves and boots/legs with duct tape before entering the worksite. After leaving the work site, the protective clothing should be vacuumed using a HEPA vacuum and placed in plastic bags before removing the respiratory protection. Contaminated disposable clothing should be treated as infectious waste, while non-disposable work clothing and respirators should be disinfected before reuse.
d. Showering: If the disposable coveralls or other protective clothing are torn, it is crucial for workers to shower prior to putting on their street clothes. Additionally, it is recommended that workers shower and thoroughly wash their hair at the end of their shift.
To prevent the dispersal of debris and pathogens, it is recommended to saturate dried bird droppings with water before removal. This can be done using a low-velocity mist spray to ensure the droppings are adequately wetted. It is important to avoid using high pressure or concentrated streams, as they may scatter the droppings. Nonmetallic tools, such as plastic spatulas and brushes with natural fiber or nylon bristles, should be used to remove droppings from historic or sensitive structures to avoid any damage.
Bird excrement removal should not be performed in public areas without proper precautions. Whenever possible, schedule the cleanup during periods of minimum building or area use, such as weekends. Close all heating and cooling system air intakes to protect interior air during the cleanup. If the droppings are located outside the building, perform all work from the exterior. Barricades and signage should be used to keep the public clear of the work site during operations.
After cleaning up dried bird droppings, it is important to dispose of them properly to prevent any further risks. Double bag the droppings and any associated soil in thick plastic bags (3 mil or thicker), securely close the bags, and place them in a cardboard container. Prior to placing them in a trash dumpster, contact the Director of Environmental Management for guidance. If the droppings have been proven to contain specific pathogens, they should be incinerated through a bio-hazardous waste disposal company. Do not leave the bags at a collection point for later pickup, as they could tear and release their potentially infectious contents.
If you require professional assistance in sanitizing, disinfecting, and removing bird poop from balconies, homes, storage areas, or factories, contact Bird Poop Cleaning. Our team of experts will ensure a safe and thorough cleanup. For more information or to schedule our services, please reach out to us at hello@khunclean.com or call us at 082-797-3702.
Stay safe and protect yourself from the potential health hazards associated with dried bird poop!
[CTA] For professional bird poop cleaning services, contact us at hello@khunclean.com or call 082-797-3702.