Causes of Fires in Healthcare Facilities

2/5/2023 (Permalink)

Fires in healthcare facilities can be caused by a variety of factors.

Fires in healthcare facilities are an unfortunate fact of life. These fires can be caused by a variety of factors, including improperly stored or used oxygen, drugs and alcohol abuse by staff members and visitors, cooking equipment left on unattended overnight or during breaks, electrical issues related to poorly maintained wiring systems or faulty equipment.

Improperly Stored or used Oxygen

Oxygen is used in hospitals for medical purposes. The most common uses of oxygen include, storage of oxygen in tanks or cylinders, use in medical equipment such as nebulizers and use during medical procedures such as laser surgery or cataract operations.

Flammable Substances

Hospitals store a wide variety of drugs, both prescription and over-the-counter. Many of these medications are highly flammable and can be ignited by sources as small as a cigarette lighter or even an electrical ignition source such as a defibrillator. Alcohol is another potential fire hazard because it is a solvent that can ignite on contact with an open flame or spark. In addition to these materials being stored at the hospital's pharmacies, they may also be used in areas such as operating rooms and emergency rooms to treat patients before surgery begins or after it has been completed.

Smoking

Smoking is a leading cause of fires in healthcare facilities. A combination of common causes such as matches, lighters and candles may ignite tobacco products left unattended, or even smoldering cigarettes left in ashtrays.

Staff and visitors are prohibited from smoking within all patient rooms, common areas and patient parking lots, including waiting areas with signs at entrances that state: "No Smoking". The prohibition also extends to balconies where patients may be treated outdoors.

Cooking Equipment

Because cooking equipment is used in healthcare facilities to prepare food for patients and staff, fires can occur when cooking equipment is not properly maintained or used. For example, a hot plate may be left unattended on a countertop while the staff member who was using it goes to another room to complete another task. In this case, if the hot plate isn't turned off or put away properly after use and left unattended, it may start a fire if someone comes along later and touches it while it is still hot.

Cooking equipment also needs to be stored properly so as not to pose any danger of starting a fire. In addition, staff members need training in how to avoid any unnecessary exposure to heat sources such as heating elements in stoves or microwaves.

Chemicals and Solvents

Chemicals and solvents are used in healthcare facilities for a variety of purposes. They can be found in cleaning products, medical equipment, and even some medications.

However, chemicals and solvents can also be hazardous if they catch fire or if they are not stored properly. If you work with dangerous chemicals or solvents at your job, it's important to know what makes these materials so dangerous when exposed to heat sources like flames or high temperatures.

Electrical Issues

Electrical issues are the leading cause of fires in healthcare facilities. Electrical issues can be caused by faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, and improper use of extension cords. They might also be caused by equipment that is not properly grounded to protect against electrical shock or electrocution hazards.

Electrical problems can result from damaged or worn out electrical cords, plugs and/or sockets, loose connections, damaged insulation, worn out wires, loose screws holding switches together with the panel box (also known as a junction box). Overloaded circuits due to adding new lights without upgrading wiring service and ungrounded outlets installed in wet areas where water may seep into a receptacle's ground prong area because of poor installation practices or conditions such as excessive moisture accumulation within an enclosure.

It’s important for hospitals and healthcare facilities to have a plan in place for fire safety. It should be part of the facility’s disaster management plan, and it should include regular inspections and maintenance checks on fire suppression systems, sprinklers and alarms.

What To Expect After a Partial Fire Loss

10/11/2022 (Permalink)

Exterior fire damage

What to Expect Following a Minor Fire Loss

When your facing a partial loss, it can seem like the entire world has fallen apart. However, this is not always the case. In many cases, partial losses can be addressed in a way that will get your life back to normal quickly and easily. You just need to know what to expect after a fire or another disaster happens in your home or business.

Size Matters

While partial losses do not have to cause as much damage as a total loss, they still cost money and time to fix. Why? Because they are often more expensive than a single replacement item would be if you were not suffering from a partial loss. For example, if your car is damaged in an accident and the door needs replacing but not the entire vehicle, you will likely have to pay significantly more for this service than if you had purchased just one new door instead of having it repaired at all.

A partial loss can take longer than expected to fix because there are multiple parts involved in any given repair job—and each part may need replacing before proceeding with the next step in fixing your home or business property after it's been damaged by fire or floodwater. This means that even though part of what makes up your building might still be OK after being flooded out (say because only one room was affected), it's gonna be harder work getting everything back together again once everything has dried out enough so that repairs can begin properly.

Before the Disaster

You should come up with a plan for when disaster strikes. Your plan should include information about how you will exit your home, where everyone is going to meet up after they leave their homes, and phone numbers of local shelters or hotel options in case everyone needs somewhere else to stay until the damage from the fire is cleared away (if this is possible). Make sure everybody knows what kind of clothing they need for different weather conditions as well as whether or not pets are welcome at these shelters or hotels.

You should also create a checklist of what items need to be taken out first during an evacuation so that when things get hectic there will still be time left over at the day's end for everything else—including saving some money on insurance premiums by making good decisions now.

Take Action Quickly

Partial loss fire restoration can be a stressful process. However, it's important to remember that there are many steps you can take to speed up the process and make sure your home is restored as quickly as possible.

Ventilation is key in a partial loss situation, as smoke damage will occur if the area isn't properly ventilated before any work begins on restoring the property.

Once you've decided whether or not it's safe for your family or pets to return home (or if they should stay somewhere else), ask your property manager about how long it will take for repairs to be completed so that you can plan accordingly. If there's damage from flooding, it's best to wait until after all repairs have been made before moving back into your house; this will allow any mold present in your walls time enough to dry out without being exposed again by living within those walls at a high humidity level day after day.

Insurance Coverage

Insurance companies generally pay for certain types of repair work when it comes to water damage restoration, so it's important that you know what kinds of repairs they cover, but they don't cover everything. For example, if there are any items missing from your home after a flood or sewage backup (such as furniture or appliances), then the insurance company may not be responsible for those losses unless they were specifically listed on your policy as being covered by the policyholder at no extra cost. Similarly, if some parts of your house have been damaged by mold growth during this time period then those costs aren't typically covered under most policies either since mold growth is considered an "act of nature" which usually isn't included in most standard forms within homeownership programs in particular situations like these ones.

A partial loss can be a scary thing, but it doesn’t have to be. If you take the right steps and do your research beforehand, then you can minimize the damage that comes with these kinds of fires. When you experience a loss - partial or whole, SERVPRO of Affton/Webster Groves is here to help restore your St. Louis home or business.

3 Steps To Creating a Viable Continuity Plan for Your Business

10/1/2022 (Permalink)

Having a business continuity plan in place can help you get back to business as soon as possible.

Three Steps to Developing a Workable Business Continuity Plan

When a water disaster impacts your Grantwood Village, MO business, one major concern you may have is how the damage is going to affect your customers and employees. A work stoppage can have a significant impact on your business and cause you to lose time, money, and clients. However, having a business continuity plan in case of a flood or other disaster can help you be better prepared and reduce downtime, and there are a few steps you can take to create this plan.

1. Understand Your Needs

Before you can create an emergency response plan that works for you, it is important that you understand which facets of your business are the most important in case of a flood and where you would put your focus first. Creating a business impact report might help you address these needs and allow you and your managers to follow a unified plan in case of a disaster.

2. Create a Strategy

Once you understand your company’s needs when it comes to preventing or reducing a work stoppage in case of an emergency, it is important that you identify strategies that may help you fulfill them. Consider factors such as what financial resources you might have to make repairs and what kind of recovery options you might have at hand. Review these with your managers, and work to close as many resource gaps as possible.

3. Organize Teams

Creating effective teams to manage a work stoppage can be an important aspect of any business continuity plan. Because there are many facets to managing this issue, having informed teams organized and ready to react to an emergency can be vital to getting your company up and running again as soon as possible.

When your Grantwood Village, MO business experiences a disaster such as a flood or fire, a work stoppage can seriously impact its success. Having a business continuity plan in place can reduce this type of disruption and help you get back to business as soon as possible.

3 Things to Look for in a Water Damage Restoration Company

7/11/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial water restoration in a building in Crestwood, MO.

Commercial Water Damage Restoration

It can be devastating to discover water damage in your property. You need to act quickly to get a professional out to your property to address the broken pipes immediately. Hopefully, you already know of a water cleanup company in Crestwood, MO to lend a helping hand, but if you do not, then here are some qualities to look for in an organization before you spend any money:

1. Insurances, Licenses, and Certifications

You do not want to hire anyone to work on your commercial building who is not accredited and certified to work in your state. Certification proves the contractor has acquired the necessary documents and has gone through training to clean up the damage concisely. Insurance is critical in case someone ends up suffering an injury on your property. If the water damage restoration company does not have insurance, then you could be liable and have to pay medical bills out of your own pocket.

2. Proximity

Time is of the essence when it comes to addressing flooding in your commercial building. You should hire a mold remediation company that can come out quickly because it only takes 24 hours for mold to begin to develop. Additionally, addressing the damage is sure to increase the likelihood of being able to restore valuables.

3. Experience

You do not want to address flooding in your building on your own because you likely do not have the supplies necessary to remove water. You also do not know how to properly repair damaged structures, such as drywall. The same principle holds true for the water damage remediation company in Crestwood, MO you hire. Always ask a contractor about the number of years he or she has worked in the industry. Hire someone who has been involved in this line of work for years as opposed to someone who just got a license.

Electrical Fires and Your Business

5/18/2022 (Permalink)

Electrical fire is a common cause of fire damage in commercial settings.

Common Causes Of Electrical Fires In Your Business

When it comes to sneaky sources of flames and property damage, electrical fire is one of the top culprits. Frayed wires, outdated electrical systems, damaged cable insulation, and short circuits are some of the top factors. The most common causes of these fires include

• Faulty electrical outlets and outdated appliances with damaged cords or switches
• Cords that have been run underneath a rug
• Light bulbs with a wattage too high for light fixtures
• Power and extension cords that have been overloaded
• Inappropriate placement of space heaters, especially when they are too close to combustible items
• Old wiring systems that can't handle today's reliance on electrical appliances
  
  
  

One of the best ways to protect your commercial property from electrical sparks and destructive flames is to recognize these common causes of fire and take preventative steps.

Which Extinguisher Is Best?

Another important step in protecting your property is to install appropriate fire extinguishers throughout your buildings. After an electrical fire, computer cleanup is much more effective if the right type of extinguisher has been used. There are several types to consider; the most common are

• Clean agent extinguishers, commonly used in rooms with a lot of computer equipment
• Class K extinguishers, are the best option for commercial kitchens where grease fires are a possibility
• Wet chemical extinguishers, most appropriate for hot surfaces, such as in foodservice establishments
• Dry chemical extinguishers, best used for minor blazes in industrial settings
  
  
  

After a fire extinguisher has been used, contact a fire cleanup and remediation professional to appropriately clean up the residue from extinguisher discharge and to inspect your computer equipment for fire and smoke damage. If computer equipment is damaged and you use it, further damages and even new fires could take place.

What Other Preventative Steps Can You Take?

Electrical fire is a common cause of fire damage in commercial settings. Take steps to protect your Lakeshire, MO, business by understanding the most likely scenarios and taking steps to prevent them. Make sure you have the right policies in place and install the most appropriate extinguishers for each room in your building.

Three Reasons To Hire a Certified Damage Restoration Specialist

5/13/2022 (Permalink)

Drying equipment is placed to ensure all water is removed from the floor.

Three Reasons To Hire a Certified Damage Restoration Specialist

Whether you are dealing with a broken pipe, leaky roof, or flooding, a certified water damage expert can handle any type of water clean-up on a commercial property. You may find that specialists who have current certifications are able to resolve the problem quickly, limit secondary damage and that insurance companies are more likely to cover their work. 

1. Certified Experts Handle Damage Quickly and Correctly

Restoration professionals with IICRC certifications, particularly the Commercial Drying Specialist certification, are capable of recommending the right methods for restoring a commercial property and contents to working order as soon as possible. This can help to minimize secondary damage and lost income.

2. Insurance Companies Prefer to Work With Certified Experts

When it comes to water clean-up, insurers can count on certified experts to get the job done. Certified specialists are also more likely to guarantee the quality of their work. If you do experience mold growth or other secondary damage following restoration, you may not have to foot the full cost of mitigation if you have followed the recommendations of a certified service.

3. Less Secondary Damage May Occur

Certified experts are aware of the risks of allowing water damage to linger. This can help to prevent secondary damage from starting to develop or becoming a severe problem. Mold can begin to grow in as little as 24 to 48 hours following water damage, so it is a good idea to get an expert on the scene as soon as possible.

Certified water damage restoration professionals have the expertise and equipment necessary to perform water clean-up. If you need to restore damage from a broken pipe or any other source in a commercial property in Shrewsbury, MO, look for a clean-up and restoration service that employs IICRC-certified experts.

3 Steps To Take After a Pipe Breaks

12/23/2021 (Permalink)

Water cleanup services in Concord, MO.

Steps To Take After a Pipe Breaks

Water damage in Concord, MO due to bursting pipes has the potential to be costly to your business. There are several steps you can take after a pipe breaks that can help you protect your business.

1. Eliminate the Source of Water and Fix the Issue

When you have identified the cause of the water damage, the first step you should take is to stop the water from flowing before you fix the broken pipe. Turning off the water in your building can prevent your building from flooding. Once the water is off, a plumber can examine your pipes and determine what likely caused the pipe to break. Once the cause of the break has been identified, you can later consider the best option for replacing the pipes.

2. Contact a Cleanup Service

Once the bursting pipes are no longer actively flooding the building, it’s often important to contact a cleanup service. Although you may want to remove some of the water yourself, a cleaning service experienced in handling flooded buildings is likely to be more knowledgeable in methods to use to thoroughly clean and sanitize your items and your building. Often, cleanup service workers use specialized equipment to restore items that are fragile and difficult to handle.

3. Prevent Secondary Damage

Often, water damage can cause secondary damage, and mold growth is often one of the most common types of secondary damage after a flood. In addition to removing water and starting to clean your business quickly, keeping your building dry can prevent mold from growing. Since mold grows in humid, moist environments, it can be helpful to open windows and turn on fans to keep your building dry.

Quickly reacting to bursting pipes can help you prevent major damage from occurring in your business. If your business has already been affected by flooding, it can be helpful to work with water damage restoration experts.

Is Smoke Damage a Claimable Loss?

10/26/2021 (Permalink)

Smoke damage in a warehouse.

Is Smoke Damage a Covered Loss?

Smoke damage is usually a covered loss in many commercial property insurance policies. Even if the fire that led to smoke or soot damage in your property in Shrewsberry, MO occurred in an adjacent business, your insurance should still pay out when you have smoke cleaning performed. If you want to eliminate all traces of smoke in your business or property, here are three steps that you can take to have the air quality restored.

1. Check with your insurer. Some commercial property insurance policies include coverage for damage caused by smoke. Other policies may not have this coverage. Before you schedule commercial cleaning or remediation services, you should check with your insurance provider and make sure that they will cover most, if not all of the cleaning costs with the company that you are considering to hire.

2. Schedule a smoke damage consultation. A consultation with a restoration company that specializes in cleaning up smoke can help you determine the extent of the cleaning process. Experts can inspect your business or commercial property and come up with a plan that will get rid of every trace of smoke or soot damage.

3. Have smoke cleaning performed in and around the property. Smoke cleanup may involve dry or wet cleaning of hard non-porous surfaces and the use of a machine such as an industrial air scrubber, thermal fogger, or an ozone or hydroxyl generator. Each of these machines has different requirements in terms of whether or not evacuation is necessary, side effects, and the duration of the cleaning process.

If you have recently experienced smoke damage in a commercial property located in Shrewsberry, MO, you should start the cleanup process by asking your insurance company about your options. Once you know which restoration companies and services are covered by your commercial property policy, you can make the best decisions regarding restoration.

Best Ways to Prevent Mold Damage

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

Mold damage can also be avoided with regular inspections.

The Most Effective Ways to Prevent Mold Damage

Are you a proactive business owner in Crestwood, MO? If so, you may want to start addressing mold and water damage before either is a problem. Taking preventative steps can help reduce the need for a major cleanup in the future. With the help of your commercial mold cleanup professional, you can finish projects in your building that could help prevent mold damage.

• Tackle Repairs: Promptly taking on repair projects can stop mold growth before it happens. Even small issues, like a slow leaking pipe, should be taken care of right away. If the small leak is left unattended, water may start to pool within your walls or under your sink. This pool of water can encourage mold growth in as little as 24 to 48 hours.

• Perform Maintenance: You can't always stop a pipe from bursting. Sometimes disasters happen without any warning. However, performing regular maintenance on your plumbing may help prevent water damage that could lead to fungus growth. A functioning plumbing system is less likely to malfunction than one that has not been repaired or cleaned in decades.

• Remove Humidity: Humidity can be a big problem in any commercial building. Managing the humidity levels and removing excess moisture from the air are big steps in mold prevention. If you leave your building with 70 percent humidity for a long period of time, your chances of mold growing in that environment are high.

• Schedule an Inspection: Regular inspections can also help prevent mold damage. An inspector can check every nook and cranny of your building for signs of mold. If the fungus is caught early, the cleanup process will likely be less intensive than if the growth had spread.

Being proactive in the maintenance of your building is the best way to stop mold damage from ever taking place. Knowing where water damage is most likely and watching that spot can help keep your business running smoothly.

Best Ways to Get Rid of That Nasty Sewer Smell From Your Building

7/8/2021 (Permalink)

Sewer cleaning

Occasional foul smells are something you have to deal with, but few things (if any) are worse than a sewer smell. It can be next to impossible to work if you have these odors in your building. At the very least, they can be unpleasant and bothersome. At the most, they can cause illness. Luckily, there are ways you can rid your workplace in Webster Groves, MO, of sewage odors.

Go the Simple Route

The terrible sewage smell may not require professional intervention or expensive methods for you correct. If you notice the smell coming from a sink or drain, try these steps:

• Pour a couple of cups of tap water into the drain.
• Wait a day or two to see if the smell goes away.
• If the smell remains, or if it returns, you will have to go in a different direction.

Deep Cleaning

Your next step will require a little more time and effort, but it doesn’t have to take a lot of resources. There may be some backup in the drain, so you’ll have to clear out anything causing a blockage. Remove the grate over the drain. It may be caked with crusted debris or hard water, so you might have to use a flathead screwdriver or similar device to pry it open. Take the grate and thoroughly clean it with disinfectant or another agent. Also, clean the drain and remove any materials from the inside. Replace the grate. Evaluate whether the sewer smell is still present.

Get the Pros Involved

At this point, if you still smell the sewer gas stench, it’s time to call a plumber or other specialist. The issues may be much more extensive than you can solve on your own. A professional will have the tools and skills to resolve the smell.

You shouldn’t have to deal with a sewer smell in your building. Follow these smells to eliminate this situation.

3 Things To Do After a Fire Occurs in Your Company's Building

4/27/2021 (Permalink)

Warehouse fire damage

Things To Do After A Fire Building

If a fire ever occurs in your company's Concord, MO, building, you'll want to be prepared. Other than creating a fire escape plan, it's essential to know what to do afterward. Quick action can keep everyone safe, as well as help the fire restoration process get completed sooner. If you're looking for information on this topic, here are three things to do after a fire occurs in your company's building.

1. Find a Temporary Workspace
One of the most important things to keep in mind after a fire is that the building should be avoided. Even if the building seemingly has minimal damage, it isn't safe to enter it until doing so has been approved. You may not be able to fully reinhabit it until the fire damage restoration process has occurred. If you're unsure about where to hold work, here are some temporary office spaces you can try:

• Virtual spaces
  
• Your home
  
• A rented space
  
• Community meeting areas
  
  

2. Contact Your Insurance Agency
Once everyone's safety has been ensured, you'll need to contact your fire insurance agency. Be sure to thoroughly explain the situation and ask for information on the next steps. If you can get a detailed report of the damage, that may be helpful in this process. Don't delay at any point. Restoration procedures like smoke cleaning can get started sooner if you take quick action.

3. Hire a Board-Up Service
While you may not return to your building any time soon, it still needs to be taken care of. This is especially important if the fire created holes that would let in the elements. Therefore, you may want to hire a board-up service. Doing so lessens the chance that you'll need to deal with more than fire damage during the fire restoration process.
While you can't ensure that your building won't experience a fire, you can be prepared. Stay informed and be ready to get the fire restoration process started.

OSHA Requires Certain Businesses to Maintain First Aid Kits

4/15/2021 (Permalink)

OSHA is happy to provide free guidance for any additional items your business needs in its emergency kit.

In the United States, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires that certain businesses have a first aid kit matching the size of their organization in Grantwood Village, MO. While inspections of kits are rare, not having one when disaster hits can have negative results, including

• Lawsuits
• Civil penalties
• Possible criminal penalties
• Denied insurance claims
  
  

The OSHA Regulations

OSHA says that all businesses that aren’t in “near proximity” to a clinic or hospital must maintain “adequate first aid supplies.” Near proximity is based on the risks and circumstances of your business operations. For businesses with a high chance of life-threatening injury or illness, they must be within a “3 to 4 minute response time.” For businesses that are unlikely to have life-threatening results, up to 15 minutes is allowed.

The Immediate Need for First Aid

Most kits will do nothing more than gather dust. However, sometimes they are the difference between life and death. If you don’t have at least what OSHA requires, you can be held liable for any resulting damages. If gross negligence is proven, you could also face an expensive criminal charge – and possibly spend time incarcerated.

The Items Needed for a First Aid Kit

The items you need are based on the type of operations at your business. However, certain items should be in every kit, including

• First aid manual
• Gauze pads
• Adhesive bandages
• Small scissors
• Antibiotics
• Adhesive tape
• Rubber gloves
• Tourniquet
• Elastic bandage
• Sling
• Mylar emergency blanket
• Breathing barrier
• Instant cold compress
  
  

OSHA is happy to provide free guidance for any additional items your business needs in its emergency kit. Employees must be familiar with where it is and should have a little training in how to use it. The training can be made fun with small rewards, leaving employees to feel like the training was a welcome break from routine.
If your business has an emergency that causes injury and property damage, first get everyone to safety. Next, use your first aid kit or evacuate the injured to a safe medical facility. Then call an experienced damage restoration company to secure the building and begin the repair process.

How To Prevent an Out-of-Control Mold Infestation

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

Ways To Prevent A Mold Problem From Getting Out Of Control

As a commercial property owner or manager, you have many jobs to juggle. This includes limiting or fixing damage to the premises. Mold is a particularly common cause of harm in commercial buildings. The invisible spores can spread through the air and grow on organic surfaces. While mold removal services are available, you can save money by stopping the mold infestation before it starts. 

1. Decrease Moisture
Mold grows quickly in dark and wet areas. You should thus limit the amount of moisture in the air. You can do this by installing fans and dehumidifiers throughout the property

2. Keep the HVAC System Clean
Mold often hides in the vents of your building. The spores can then spread into the air whenever you turn on your heater or air conditioner. To prevent this, clean the HVAC system regularly. If you do suspect that the spores have gotten into the vents, call mold removal experts.

3. Know the Signs
To prevent a mold problem from getting out of hand, you need to spot the spores when they first start to grow. Hold regular inspections and focus on wet areas such as crawl spaces and basements. Musty smells and fuzzy stains could be evidence of a mold issue.
Of course, finding the mold is only the first step. Once you suspect that the fungus is starting to grow, contact local commercial mold cleanup professionals. They will be able to remove the mold safely.
Because mold grows quickly, what appears to be a small patch of the fungus can quickly spread throughout your building. To prevent the need for mold removal services, you should keep your Webster Groves, MO, property dry and clean the vents. If you do find signs of mold on the premises, contact mold remediation specialists who can quickly address the issue.

Understanding Fire Sprinklers

1/5/2021 (Permalink)

The fire sprinkler is a wondrous invention that has unquestionably saved countless lives

The fire sprinkler protecting your office in Concord, MO, is a marvel of modern science we rarely consider. Although its purpose is simple to understand, the nuances concerning this revolutionary piece of safety infrastructure are widely ignored. Here are some details worth noting regarding your building’s fire suppression system.

Sprinkler Misconceptions

Movies and TV shows have created a number of misunderstandings regarding sprinklers. For instance:

• It is extremely rare for them to be triggered accidentally.
  
• Minor smoke, such as that which wafts from cigars and burning toast, will not activate them.
  
• One sprinkler head-turning on will not set off the others. They only discharge near flames.
  
  

The protection afforded by your company’s fire sprinkler is significant. Without one, a fire would cause far more damage in need of repair by a commercial building restoration service than would otherwise be the case. The need to conduct fire sprinkler cleanup is a far preferable alternative to a completely demolished infrastructure.

Sprinkler Facts
Because they are perpetually filled with pressurized water, sprinklers are constantly ready to douse blazes. Only high temperatures will set them off. Smoke never plays a part in causing them to spray.
By emitting between 10 and 25 gallons of water per minute, sprinklers allow building occupants crucial escape time. Although fire suppression remains their key objective, sprinklers are often capable of completely extinguishing flames.
Only a specially trained contractor should handle sprinkler installation. It is of vital importance that codes set by the National Fire Protection Association, along with local requirements, be met. Sprinkler systems should always be installed during construction, but when that does not happen then retrofitting remains a possibility. Although altering existing structures can be costly, the insurance savings inherent in this upgrade enhances the attractiveness of this option.
The fire sprinkler is a wondrous invention that has unquestionably saved countless lives. Take a moment to reflect upon the elegant brilliance of this awe-inspiring safety device.

6 Key Features of a Business Continuity Plan

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

Your business continuity plan needs to include an analysis of your business functions

6 Key Features of a Business Continuity Plan

Most emergencies happen without warning, leaving you to make critical decisions quickly and under a great deal of pressure. Having a business continuity plan in place puts your organization in the best possible position to handle the situation successfully. If you are in Lakeshire, MO, and you're ready to begin drawing up that plan, here are six key features to consider:

1. Scope, Objectives and Assumptions
Before you can lay out specific steps to follow, you need to know your end goals. What are your priorities? What requirements need to be met? How big is your risk appetite? Will your plans address the best and worst case scenarios of an emergency interruption?

2. Hierarchical Structure
Identify the chain of command, including the roles of team members and their responsibilities. Who will delegate tasks as part of your emergency response plan - and to whom? Who needs to be contacted outside of the business (vendors, clients, etc.)? Include contact information for each person on your team.

3. Business Impact Analysis
Your business continuity plan needs to include an analysis of your business functions and what the potential impact could be on each area in an emergency situation. What are strategies to mitigate loss and recover from any damage?

4. Downtime
You will need to determine how much downtime is acceptable for your business’s most critical functions. Who will report incidents and assess damage? Who will you contact if there is a need for water damage cleanup and restoration?

5. Continuity of Operations
Taking various emergency scenarios into account, you will need to decide how, when and where your organization will continue operating until the situation resolves. What are the procedures, logistics, resources and workarounds you will need?

6. Weaknesses
As you are laying out your business continuity plan, what areas could you streamline or improve upon in order to function better during an emergency? Are there any preventative steps you could take?

Though you can't predict emergencies and when they will happen, you can be prepared for them. Creating a well-thought-out plan now will help give your business the best chance of emerging successfully if disaster strikes.

5 Steps for Successful Water Mitigation

10/20/2020 (Permalink)

Broken pipe causes water damage in commercial building

Pipe Burst Cleanup 

How would you handle pipe burst cleanup in your Crestwood, MO, facility? While removing water is a good start, there are other important steps in water mitigation that must be taken to get your business back to normal.

1. Document the Incident
Take clear photographs of the damage and record any information. This step might not seem important at first, but it will be easier for insurance purposes if you document the entire incident and any pipe burst cleanup that resulted from it.

2. Call for a Professional Assessment
At the first sight of water, call a water damage and restoration professional. The small issue of a supply line leaking could lead to other problems. An expert will assess the situation thoroughly, give you all of the details and help you create a plan that is unique to your situation.

3. Water Removal and Drying
Small amounts of water can be handled with a wet/dry vacuum, but if flooding is substantial, you should call a company to pump it out. They will also have the tools to completely dry out your facility. Dehumidifying can take a few weeks and is best left to the professionals.

4. Cleaning and Sanitizing
Water cleanup includes any objects that might have been compromised by moisture. A burst pipe in a ceiling will not only affect it and your floor but everything in between. All of your furniture, electronics and other belongings have to be cleaned and sanitized to prevent mold infestation.

5. Restoration
Depending on the damage, the lengthiest part of getting your business back to normal could be restoration. Replacing floors, drywall and other structural elements that were damaged will be quicker with help from a restoration services company.
Pipe burst cleanup can be a long process but taking the time and getting the help you need will make it easier to handle and get your facility up and running in no time.

Water Categorization: Category Two

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

How to Handle and Recover from Water Category Two

A flooded commercial property leads to loss of profits and possibly rising insurance premiums. While, as the owner or manager, your mind jumps immediately to costs, it is also necessary to consider the safety of your employees or tenants. Although, you can remedy some issues easily, like a water pipe repair, others require a professional touch, especially when dealing with escalated water categories. There are three categories of water: clean, gray and black. This article addresses category two water, how to handle it and how to recover.

What is Category Two Water?

Category two water or gray water is not as bad as black water, but because of the level of contamination, it is still wise to hire a plumbing remediation specialist from the Grantwood Village, MO, area for removal and cleanup.
Unlike black water, gray water can originate from a clean water source, like a broken pipe, but it becomes contaminated after soaking through construction materials or standing for any length of time.

How to Handle Gray Water?

While gray water can start as clean water from a failed water pipe repair, it quickly fills with bacteria and other chemical compounds that make it unsafe for handling. Therefore, it is best to seek professional help and avoid any further difficulties.

How to Recover?

Once you hire a remediation specialist, they will come out to your property and assess the damage and remove any standing water. They may suggest the need for tear-out or some construction materials, like drywall and insulation, to help restore your property to pristine condition.

While a water pipe repair may fix the original issue, the gray water will still need removal, which a certified professional should handle. If you are dealing with a suspected category two flood, then don't go it alone, contact a certified and licensed remediation company to help. Keep yourself and your employees and tenants safe.

Tips for Getting an Accurate Estimate for Fire Cleanup

4/18/2020 (Permalink)

Commercial board up building in Marlborough, MO

Tips for Getting an Accurate Estimate for Fire Cleanup

When a fire strikes your company in Marlborough, MO, you might be anxious about the financial impact of the blaze. A professional fire mitigation franchise can provide some clarity on that front after an inspection and assessment of the property. One aspect of this is a thorough and accurate estimate that takes into account the following services:

• Fire board up services to secure the building
  
• Roof replacement or repair
  
• Security guard surveillance if needed
  
• Water damage and fire damage restoration
  
• Smoke odor removal
  
• Reconstruction
  
  

Each fire is unique, and not all of these services will be needed for every situation. A clear and itemized list of services and expenses can help you understand where you stand.

The Role of a Restoration Project Manager

This person will in large part oversee the entire project. The project manager will work to determine which areas of the property will need to be cleaned and deodorized and if such services as content cleaning and storage space will be needed. All emergency services needed to recover from the fire will be in the estimate. Working with technicians, the project manager will determine the correct cleaning agents, methods and equipment needed for a full recovery. The resulting bid should be clear and transparent, and the manager should be available for any questions or concerns you have.

The Role of an Experienced Company

Taking charge of a commercial fire cleanup is a large job and you want a company that is Here to Help and that has the experience and training to handle the job. Integrity also is crucial. An inaccurate estimate can be full of surprises and result in unexpected charges. Also, a reliable company can help you coordinate claims with your insurance company. This cuts down on duplicate communications and often results in a more efficient claims process. Faster payment to you means less financial uncertainty during a difficult time.

How Ice Dams Can Cause Mold Damage

1/7/2020 (Permalink)

Ice dams occur when snow melts on top of a warm roof.

When a snowstorm hits, you are probably worried that the power will go out in your Concord, MO, building. You may also fear that a burst pipe will flood your office. Yet winter weather can also affect your commercial property in another way. An ice dam can form on your roof, leading to the growth of black mold.

Ice Dams and Mold

Ice dams occur when snow melts on top of a warm roof. The melted water then flows to the colder eaves, where it refreezes into ice. This ice blocks additional water from dripping off the edge of the roof. The water instead goes under the shingles and into the building, where it can damage:

• Insulation
  
• Sheetrock
  
• Wall studs
  
  

When these parts of the building get wet, they create a breeding ground for mildew and mold. By the time you notice the fungus, you may not be able to handle the problem on your own. Instead, you may need to contact mold remediation specialists, which could affect your company's profits. You may even have to close down the property temporarily while the ice dam is removed and mold cleanup is performed.

Stopping Ice Dams

There are simple steps you can take to limit the development of ice dams. Try adding insulation or heated cables to ensure the entire roof remains fairly warm. You should also put caulk around any pipes or vents and seal exhaust and HVAC ducts.

Fixing Ice Dams

If you do see one or more ice dams, you should get rid of them immediately before they cause mold damage. You can quickly and safely break up the dam with a roof rake.
An ice dam could cause water to back up on your roof and leak into your building. This, in turn, could necessitate extensive black mold cleanup. To prevent this occurrence, maintain a consistent temperature on the roof and quickly address any dams that form.