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After an extreme weather event, it is difficult to know where to start the clean-up. The feeling of being overwhelmed can make it hard to digest conflicting information, much of which is incomplete and can leave you exposed to unforeseen risks.
Getting the right advice
The Victorian Government and others provide great information on dangers from exposed electrics and other physical hazards, however accurate up to date information on the dangers from pollutants after water enters a property, is much harder to come by.
Unfortunately, some organisations provide incorrect advice and promote products that have not been scientifically proven. Many of the products and treatments for mould removal or prevention on the market today, for example, are not tested under controlled conditions. They also may not take into account more cost-effective and simple solutions to recovery from water damage. Understanding the correct clothing and personal protection needed when dealing with water damage is also important in keeping safe.
Dangers of water damage:
Toxic hidden hazards
Perhaps the most concerning aspect of water damage is that it can often be invisible to the naked eye, even while it causes serious issues for indoor air quality and, therefore, physical health.
Mould grows so rapidly on porous materials that even unexpected culprits such as furniture, carpets, toys, clothing and books can hide hazardous mould growth. The usual suspects such as walls and ceilings can also become infested with mould, long before it is visible to the naked eye.
Airborne pathogens can often hide in inaccessible places like computer keypads and other electronics. Specialised cleaning may need to be done on these objects if they have been sitting in a flooded building, whether or not they have had any direct contact with water.
Need a helping hand?
JTA Health Safety & Noise have a team who are experts in managing health risks from pollutants after flooding. We offer independence from companies providing clean-up and restoration services. We provide solid advice, indoor air quality testing and building inspections to uncover hidden health dangers that may be lurking in water damaged buildings.
Below is an example of how we work with our clients to ensure the safety of their employees and compliance to relevant state legislation.
Client Case Study: Indoor Air Quality Assessment and Building Inspection at the Shelford Girls Grammar School Early Learning Centre
The problem:
JTA Health, Safety, & Noise Specialists were engaged to identify an effective safety strategy for the Shelford Girls Grammar School Early Learning Centre. This included a check on indoor air quality, including the potential for hidden mould growth.
The solution:
One of JTA’s OHS consultants visited the site, assessed all policies, procedures and systems relating to safety and conducted an OHS compliance audit. This audit was thorough and exact, taking into account all relevant legislation.
How JTA solved the problem:
It is important that you use all the information you can to stay safe from unforeseen hazards to your health, your employees, and your business after the trauma of a flood. JTA’s specialised team can help reduce legislation headaches and take some of the weight off your shoulders at a difficult time, so if you need expert assistance, please contact us.
Head Office Melboune
139 Ormond Road Elwood, VIC 3184
Mornington Peninsula
20 Lister Avenue,
Sorrento,
VIC 3943
JTA Health, Safety & Noise Specialists acknowledges the Boon Wurrung People of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the land on which the home of JTA resides. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and acknowledge and uphold their continuing relationship to this land.
