How Does the Presence of Contaminants Change Water Extraction Procedures in Wilmington?

9/10/2021 (Permalink)

Remember when dealing with water loss events that not all water is clean. Take precautions to protect yourself from contaminated water.

SERVPRO Immediately Assesses the Category of Water Needing Removal in Wilmington and Keeps Everyone Safe with Appropriate Contamination Emergency Service Procedures 

Although severe damage to structural components can occur with relatively clean water, the presence of infectious waste, minerals, or chemicals fuels Wilmington's immediate removal plan's urgency. A contaminated water crisis can expose your family and our technicians to:

Sewage, containing human pathogens including bacteria and viruses

• Biohazards previously used as building materials such as asbestos and lead, now disturbed during the water loss
• Chemicals from spilled household products or where wet cartons or other containers leach out dangerous substances

What Are Safety Hazard Control Steps During Contaminated Water Removal?

Tainted water removal in Wilmington requires highly trained and appropriately equipped technicians. Our crew members don personal protective equipment (PPE), including boots, full-body suits, rubber gloves, respirators equipped with P100/organic vapor cartridges, and eye protection. We broadcast-spray Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered disinfectants in the affected spaces to reduce the pathogen load before extraction. After evaluating whether contaminants could move into other areas of your home, we might construct containment chambers of 1.6 mil polyethylene and conduit, sealed through the negative pressure of air scrubbers that force airborne contaminants through HEPA filters. 

How Is My Insurance Company Involved During Contaminated Water Removal?

SERVPRO consults with your insurance carrier frequently during contaminated water removal, keeping you informed. Because of the possibility of porous contents and structures being damaged beyond repair due to the contamination, we follow local, state, and federal laws, regulations, and rules when determining if some materials must be removed and discarded. Transparent communication with the adjuster about the contamination level is critical to establishing coverage for your claims under your insurance contract.

The crews at SERVPRO of New Hanover have the experience you need for a successful contaminated water removal outcome. Call for a consultation at (910) 762-8180 after the first signs of water damage.

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