What determines whether contents should be treated, cleaned, or discarded?

The decision to treat, clean, or discard contents in the context of microbial remediation is significantly influenced by the nature of the contamination. Materials that have had physical contact with sewage are considered to be at a much higher risk for harboring pathogens and other hazardous microorganisms. This type of contamination necessitates stringent protocols for remediation due to the potential health risks involved, which often leads to the conclusion that such items should be discarded to ensure safety and prevent the spread of contamination.

When evaluating the other options, while visual contamination and signs of mold growth are important indicators of potential issues, they might not alone indicate the need for disposal. Cleaning and treatment might still be viable solutions depending on the surface type and severity of the contamination. Likewise, porous materials may also pose risks due to their absorption capabilities; however, the determining factor generally hinges on whether these materials have been contaminated by sewage. Therefore, the contact with sewage is a critical factor in deciding the appropriate remediation strategy.