What type of agents can porous materials with sewage contamination expose individuals to?

Porous materials contaminated with sewage can expose individuals primarily to infectious and disease-causing organisms. Sewage typically contains a variety of harmful pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites, which can lead to serious health risks. When these pathogens are present in porous materials such as wood, drywall, or carpeting, they can become embedded and remain a source of contamination long after the initial exposure.

Unlike chemical agents, which may also be present in some contexts, the most significant concern with sewage contamination is the biological risk it poses. Individuals working in affected areas or those who come into contact with these materials are at a heightened risk of infections that can result from exposure to these organisms.

While hazardous waste and environmental pollutants might also be concerns in certain situations, they do not specifically address the biological hazards associated with sewage. This makes the presence of infectious and disease-causing organisms the primary threat in this context.