In 2002, the world shuddered at the mention of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), an unexpected virus that caused over 8,000 infections throughout East Asia. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the link between plumbing and disease is indisputable. In fact, plumbing also contributes to numerous infectious diseases around the world. Plumbing can also defend homes against the spread of disease. You may have heard whispers connecting the recent appearance of COVID-19 to plumbing. The Bourgeois Blog is here to answer all your questions about COVID-19 and its relationship with your plumbing system.
SARS vs. COVID-19
Both SARS and COVID-19 contain strains of Coronavirus. SARS is caused by SARS-CoV, while the strain in COVID-19 is called SARS-COV-2. While these strains are by no means the same, those who are infected can spread the virus through similar methods. Aerosol droplets produced by talking, breathing, sneezing, or coughing are the primary methods of transmission.
In 2003, WHO announced another method in which SARS was able to spread: Through plumbing systems.
The Relationship between SARS and Plumbing
According to WHO, inadequate plumbing systems were a likely contributor to the spread of SARS through residential buildings in Hong Kong. During WHO’s 2003 Consultation, they liberally used the term “faecal droplet” as a suggested mode of transmission. Meaning, droplets from the outdated plumbing systems in some residential buildings re-entered the buildings through drainage systems and sewage systems, infiltrating the airflow. Their suggested solution? Proper plumbing. The Consultation official determined that world Governments should establish or strengthen communication efforts to raise awareness of the “risks of inadequate plumbing.”
The spread of SARS through the plumbing in Hong Kong had a lot to do with the type of building. Vertical pipes called “vent stacks” enable contaminated air to enter multiple floors. Unfortunately, the Associated Press reported a similar issue in Hong Kong in 2016. A Hong Kong Housing Department policy change enabled residents to make plumbing and pipe design changes in their apartments without requiring an inspection from a plumbing official. Thankfully, United States plumbing codes are incredibly stringent. U.S. requirements state that a plumbing professional must approve all modifications to a building’s water, waste, or vent systems.
Plumbing and COVID-19: What do we know?
As of today, there is not enough information about COVID-19 to make any exact determinations regarding its relationship with plumbing. However, water seals, such as P-traps, hold water and act as a barrier to prevent the escape of dead insects, odors, and even viruses and bacteria.
These U-shaped pipes prevent sewer gases from entering buildings while still enabling waste to pass through. In most homes, the P-Trap is found beneath the sink, where it traps debris, prevents clogs. It can also stop hazardous gases!
The Health Benefits of Plumbing
While we still don’t know everything about COVID-19, the relationship between excellent plumbing and healthy living is undeniable. In 2006, the World Health Organization published a short novel called Health Aspects of Plumbing. This text documents the importance of good plumbing to public health. It also outlines the importance of proper waste management for drinking water and addresses the role of plumbers in risk assessment and risk management. (Yes, we’re national heroes! If you want our autograph, we will happily oblige.) If you wish to read the whole book, click here!
In short, the standards for materials used in plumbing systems are incredibly important when evaluating your plumbing systems. Defective materials can cause water contamination and contribute to the spread of disease.
Call Al Bourgeois Plumbing Today!
The quality of your plumbing directly correlates with the health of your home. Healthy plumbing will protect your family from bad odors and disease. Does your plumbing need a tune-up? Call Al Bourgeois Plumbing! Our experienced plumbing technicians will evaluate your pipes and quickly diagnose any potential issues. For all your plumbing needs, call Bourgeois Plumbing. 504-521-6070