Not following instructions
Most chemical drain openers instruct users to put the chemical “in the pipe.” Some homeowners will disregard this and put the chemical into the water closet. Putting more than four ounces of acid drain opener in a toilet bowl has been known to cause the porcelain to crack. Also, the instructions typically recommend using only two ounces in the pipe, but directions aren’t always followed. Be prepared to encounter chemical drain openers that haven’t been used according to the directions.
Splashback
If an acid is poured into a drain already containing a caustic, a violent reaction called a splashback will occur. An unsuspecting homeowner might cause this reaction by using more than one chemical drain cleaner. Before you enter the pipe, be aware that the homeowner may have already used multiple chemical drain cleaners.
Heat
Chemical drain openers cause chemical reactions that release heat. If those chemicals splash in your face or on your arms, you can be burned or injured.
Harmful Gas
Sometimes the smell will tell you chemical drain openers have been used. Be on the lookout for strange odors. If chemical drain openers are mixed with ammonia, chlorine gas may be created. Chlorine gas can be fatal.
Damage to pipe
If the chemical drain opener does not remove the obstruction, it can remain in the pipe and may also damage it. Be aware of this possibility: it raises the chances of you being exposed to harmful chemicals.
Damage to equipment
Some chemical drain openers may cause breakage or damage to drain or sewer cable. A drain or sewer cable is a steel wire which has been tightly wound, which results in microscopic cracks on the inside of the wire. These cracks do not affect the life of the cable under normal conditions; however, if the cable is exposed to chemicals in the pipe, damage or breakage may result. Acids can enter through microscopic cracks in the cable and cause cable failure. Crystallization of the wire is also possible. In high enough concentrations, acids can break the cable in minutes. Caustics can also cause cable damage, but in a different way: they can cause severe pitting of the wire. The pitting can cause wire fatigue and the strength of the cable will be reduced, so breakage is possible.
Always be alert when entering any confined space. Unfortunately, occupational injuries involving confined spaces rose 15% in 2017 and continue to be too common. A history of entering a space without incident is not a good indicator that the space is safe; it is not uncommon for workers to die in spaces that have been entered before without incident. More than 60% of confined space fatalities are would-be rescuers, so a well-designed emergency plan is a must.
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is equipment worn to minimize exposure to a variety of hazards. Examples of PPE include such items as gloves, foot and eye protections, protective hearing devices (earplugs, muffs), hard hats, respirators, and full body suits.
Spartan Tool machines are built to last. Make sure yours work for years to come by following these tips for drain cleaning machine maintenance from Jason Robey, Spartan Tool Territory Manager.
Spartan knows your time is valuable. That's why we are your resource for sewer and drain cleaning equipment. Every feature that we build into a Spartan machine is there because it makes the job simpler, safer, and faster. With proper care and maintenance, Spartan machines have the reputation to last in the field for decades.
When choosing a supplier, details make a difference. Your local Spartan Tool Territory Manager knows your area, is experienced in the industry, and can assist you in making the best decisions for your company. Their trucks are stocked with professional-grade equipment, ready to deliver on-site.
Want to order right away? Spartan makes that easy also. You can order online 24/7 at SpartanTool.com.
Complete our credit application here to open your Spartan Tool account and establish Net 30 credit terms. You can also contact your local Territory Manager today to make an appointment at 800.435.3688!
Keep the load as close to you as possible.
Keep your back straight.
Turn your feet outward and push your buttocks out. (Picture a professional weight lifter.)
Bend your knees.
Keep your head forward. Your lift will be more balanced and the curves in your spine will stay balanced and aligned.
Breathe out as you lift.
Genuine Spartan cable can only be bought directly from Spartan Tool or our exclusive distributors. Don't be fooled by competitors. Check for the Genuine Spartan label before you buy.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that in 2017, there were 97,990 cases of injury involving overexertion in lifting or lowering that resulted in days away from work. Back pain is the most common cause of job-related disability and a leading contributor to missed work days.
