WATER DAMAGE: ISSUES THAT AFFECT YOU by Art Johnson, CR, WLS
In talking with many of you at the SPOA 2007 Conference, river flooding was what most of you had on your minds and may have been facing upon your return home. Some other concerns included how to deal with water in crawl spaces and the proper drying and remediation of wet gym floors. Let’s take a moment and consider some of these latter issues. Some challenges with crawl spaces, if they are not easily accessible, is that water damage can go on undetected for long periods of time, and only show up through secondary damage or by
emitting strong odors. It is not uncommon for restorers to be called into a house or school because it is noticed that the hardwood floors are beginning to heave or that the linoleum is beginning to change color. Upon investigation, it may have been discovered that the water heater, or some other source, has been leaking for some time without detection. Regular inspections are essential in order to avoid this. Many crawlspaces are not vented, and thus when the water is introduced, there is no place for it to go except to condensate and evaporate depending on the temperature variations that the crawlspace goes through. We have found that, even with venting, these areas cannot handle very much moisture without causing these problems. Some areas of concern when these situations are discovered may include: • What secondary damage has occurred? • Has it affected the floor sheathing? • Is there mould growing? • Is there high humidity in the school that is impacting porous materials like artwork, paper products, or condensation building on the inside of the windows? These are all signs of trouble. When addressing these situations, it is important to remember the old saying that
“only fools rush in.” Thus, be very cautious as you investigate the extent of the damage in the crawlspace. A thorough risk assessment must be executed to determine just what the risks might be. • Is there sufficient lighting to be in a position to do this investigation? • With it being wet this long are there any electrical hazards that exist or have developed? • Being in a situation that may fall under the category of a confined space, is there a risk of entanglement and a plan for rescue according to WorkSafe BC’s requirements? • What is the source of the contamination? Was its origin a fresh water source or a sewer line? • Have you donned sufficient PPE (personal protection equipment)? According to the IICRC (The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) S500 Water Damage Standard, clean water that sits for any extended period of time moves into a category 3 or black water situation. • If there is extensive mould contamination, what respiratory protection is required? • Is there a risk of oxygen deficiency due
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