Home is where most, if not all of us, feel safest, yet hidden dangers may be lurking in every corner. What’s worse is you may not be able to see them or recognize the imminent threat they pose.

Biological hazards, including mold, bacteria, and pests, may seem minute in scale compared to plumbing and structural issues, but they pose significant health risks if left unchecked. These unseen threats can compromise the air you and your family breathe and the surfaces you touch. Sometimes, they can cause severe illnesses and structural damage to your home.

Understanding and addressing these hazards is crucial to providing you and your loved ones with a safe and healthy environment. Learn about these common types of biohazards at home and explore practical steps you can take to contain the risks.

What are Biohazards?

A biological hazard, also known as a biohazard, is any organic substance that threatens the health of living organisms—particularly humans. These hazards include mold, bacteria, viruses, and allergens surrounding your home’s common areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. 

7 Biological Hazards at Home to Watch Out For

While home biohazards sound harmless on a small scale, exposure to them can lead to various health issues, including mild allergies and severe infections. Awareness of these risks is crucial for maintaining a safe and healthy living environment. Here are the common biological hazards at home to watch out for.

1. Mold and mildew

You may think mold is only present in spoiled food, but it can also grow in damp, poorly ventilated areas. 

It is quite a common issue in many homes in the US; in fact, mold is present in 47% of American residential buildings.

Together with mildew, mold can grow on walls, ceilings, and other surfaces. They release spores that may cause respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and infections. These health risks can become severe, especially if you have pre-existing respiratory conditions.

Mold and mildew are manageable if you control moisture with proper ventilation, use dehumidifiers, and repair leaks as soon as possible. Regularly cleaning and disinfecting your home can do wonders, too.

However, if your home suffers from extensive mold problems, professional intervention might be necessary. All Dry’s mold removal service effectively addresses the issue to secure your safety.

2. Dust mites

These tiny insects live in household dust and feed on dead skin cells. They do not bite people, but their fecal matter is a common allergen that can cause sneezing, itchy eyes, and asthma attacks. They thrive in warm, humid environments and often linger on pillows, mattresses, blankets, rugs and carpets, stuffed toys, etc.

To minimize dust mites, wash bedding in hot water weekly and pillows at least two to three times a year, vacuum with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, and use dust-proof covers on mattresses and pillows.

3. Pests and rodents

Pests like cockroaches, ants, and rodents are more than just nuisances and a scare for many—they also carry diseases and allergens. Roaches’ saliva, feces, and shedding body parts can trigger asthma and allergies. Based on the National Pest Management Association’s findings, 63% of American homes contain cockroach allergens.

Meanwhile, rodents’ droppings can contaminate food and surfaces and harbor harmful bacteria like Salmonella. To prevent and control pests and rodents, seal any cracks or openings around your home, keep food sealed and stored correctly, and regularly clean up crumbs and spills.

4. Bacteria and viruses

Bacteria and viruses are invisible to the naked eye but can cause serious harm when they invade your home. Common household bacteria, such as E. coli and Salmonella, are typically present in the kitchen, particularly on countertops and cutting boards. Likewise, flu or cold viruses can spread rapidly through exposure to or contact with contaminated surfaces, as well as via airborne droplets.

These hazards can cause various illnesses, so maintain good personal and home hygiene to prevent spreading bacteria and viruses. Disinfect high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and kitchen counters regularly, and wash your hands frequently with soap and water.

5. Lead and asbestos

Lead is often present in old paint, plumbing, and even soil. It can cause severe neurological damage, especially in children. Asbestos, commonly used in insulation and other building materials in older homes, can lead to lung disease and cancer if you inhale its fibers.

If you suspect lead or asbestos in your home, do not attempt to remove it yourself. Improper handling can release dangerous particles into the air. Instead, contact a certified professional who can safely assess and remediate the issue.

6. Pet dander

Everybody loves an adorable furry companion, but they often come with a mess, muddy pawprints, and pet hair and dander. The latter consists of tiny dots of skin shed by pets, which can become airborne or settle on surfaces, triggering allergies or asthma. Unlike pet hair, dander is much smaller and more challenging to remove, making it a common allergen in homes with pets. 

Regular grooming and bathing can minimize pet dander. You can also vacuum regularly with a HEPA filter and wash pet bedding and toys. If you can, keep pets out of bedrooms and off furniture to help reduce airborne dander and improve air quality. You may also use an air purifier.

7. Sewage

Sewage backups or leaks are serious biohazards that introduce harmful pathogens like viruses, bacteria, and parasites, as they can lead to hepatitis A and gastroenteritis. Contamination in your home can spread quickly on surfaces, posing significant health risks.

If you encounter a sewage backup, avoid contact with the contaminated water and call professionals like All Dry for cleanup. Disinfect and dry affected areas to prevent mold growth. Regular plumbing maintenance and proper disposal practices can also mitigate future issues.

Tackle Hidden Biohazards Today!

Your home should be a haven, but hidden biohazards like mold, dust mites, and pests can pose serious risks. Regular cleaning and prompt action are essential to protect your health and home.

If you encounter any of these biohazards, act swiftly to remove them and consider professional help if needed. For expert assistance in keeping your house safe and clean, All Dry is your trusted restoration company in Utah. Contact us here!