According to a recent study, the leading cause of loss on construction sites are attributed to bad weather and water damage. As heavy rains begin to roll in, it is important to prepare job sites and offices for the risk of leaks and floods. Be aware of the domestic water lines, draining systems, cooling, heating and sprinkler piping. All of these have the potential to leak and create water damage to your property. Never store valuable equipment or machinery in the basement without proper protection. Basements are a common place for leaks and water damage, especially with their usual network of pipes.
“Even a small amount of water or other liquid falling on valuable equipment may result in total shutdown until it has been cleaned, tested and re-certified”
If you notice a leak, there are several steps you can take to mitigate the damage:
- Turn off the power to equipment immediately, and do not turn back on until completely dry.
- Locate the cause of leakage and shut off water flow if possible.
- Cover equipment if the leak is coming from above, or apply proper protection to keep them dry.
- Remove anything that can hold moisture
- Begin cleanup and drying procedures as soon as it is safe to do so.
- Use any available vacuum equipment to eliminate water in the flooring as soon as possible.
- Open doors and windows to help reduce humidity, or set up a dehumidifier. Using fans to help circulate the air will aid in the drying process.
While electrical shortages and shocks pose the most immediate dangers, the growth of mold can cause serious unseen health issues for workers, especially in confined spaces where air circulation is limited. Mold can become expensive and difficult to remove if not treated quickly, so it is critical to prevent its development.
Feel free to contact The Integrated Group team for more information on how to prepare for or to safely clean up water damage. You can reach us at 425-822-8500 or info@theintegratedgroup.com
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