What is the proper action when a lavatory overflows?

• A. Close the lavatory and continue service.
• B. Attempt to fix it yourself without escalation.
• C. CordON off area and notify maintenance, update crew.
• D. Ignore and continue.

Answer: (C)

Containment and escalation are the priority when a lavatory overflows. The immediate action is to cordon off the area to prevent passengers from approaching the spill and to reduce slip and contamination risk. Then notify maintenance so trained technicians can assess and repair the plumbing or waste system. It’s also important to update the rest of the crew so cabin operations can adjust—informing the flight deck and advising on lavatory usage for the flight, and arranging cleaning and waste system checks as needed. Attempting to fix it yourself can cause further damage or safety risks, and closing the lavatory while continuing service or ignoring the problem leaves a hazardous situation unresolved.