How To Prepare Your Business For a Fire

10/16/2022 (Permalink)

Test your smoke detectors monthly

Prepare Your Company for a Fire

A fire can cause significant damage to your business, especially if you don't have a plan in place. Fires are unpredictable and can happen at any time, so it's important to prepare for the worst-case scenario. Here are some tips to help ensure that your business is ready in case of an emergency:

Have an emergency evacuation plan and make sure your employees know it.

You should have an emergency evacuation plan in place before a fire strikes. But that's not all: your employees need to know about it and be able to follow it in a timely manner.

The first part of the process is creating a plan. The easiest way to do this from scratch is by using an online template, like online Emergency Evacuation Plan Generators. You can use this tool for free if you're just planning on using your template for personal purposes. 

Once you've created your emergency evacuation plan, it's important that everyone knows what their role is during emergencies and how they should react when one occurs. You can accomplish this by including instructions in the form of signs posted around your building or as part of any safety procedures training program provided by management or HR departments.

Have emergency contact information for everyone in the office.

The most important thing to remember when it comes to creating an emergency contact list is that it's a living document. If someone leaves your team, or if you hire someone new, make sure to update the list accordingly. Getting everyone's contact information should be easy enough: ask for a phone number and in what format they prefer (text message vs. voice call). You can also ask people how best to reach them if they're out of town—their preferred method of contact will depend on their job role and what they need for their absence not to negatively impact the business.

If you do have an emergency arise where someone needs to reach multiple people at once (like a fire), then having everyone's backup numbers handy can be crucial. But don't forget that not all communication methods are equal: some might prefer text messages while others will only respond via email or phone calls; some may have different numbers depending on whether they're working inside or outside; etcetera. The more information you collect about how each person likes getting notifications during off-work hours will help ensure more successful communication overall when disaster strikes.

Keep fire extinguishers on hand and make sure all your employees are trained on how to use them.

The National Fire Protection Association recommends an initial fire extinguisher be placed in each area of the business and additional extinguishers as necessary to meet specific hazards or classifications, such as flammable liquids. For example, if you have a large storage area for flammable liquids, you may want an additional extinguisher in that area.

You should also train your employees on how to use them. This doesn't have to be an extensive training session; just make sure they know how to identify what type of fire they're dealing with and how to best approach each kind of fire. 

Install a sprinkler system in your business. 

If you own a business, installing a sprinkler system is the best way to keep your building from being damaged by fire. Sprinklers can be installed in new buildings or added to existing buildings, and they’re fairly simple and inexpensive to install. The cost of installing a sprinkler system varies based on the size and layout of your building, but it’s typically between $2,000 and $5,000.

It may seem like an overwhelming task if you're unfamiliar with plumbing or electrical work, but if you hire a professional contractor who specializes in fire protection services (like us!), he'll be able to walk you through each step of the process while making sure everything is done safely.

Train your employees on what to do in case of a fire. 

• Make sure your employees know where the fire extinguishers are and how to use them.
• Make sure they know where the exits are and how to get out of the building.
• If you have a plan in place, make sure they follow it.

Install smoke detectors and test them regularly. 

Smoke detectors are a good way to detect fires. To ensure that your smoke detector works properly, test it monthly using the test button on the detector or by calling the fire department to have them do so. If your detectors go off when they shouldn't (for example, while cooking), contact an electrician or fire inspector to investigate further.

If you find that your home's smoke detectors are not working properly, call an electrician who specializes in electrical wiring and repairs before attempting any troubleshooting yourself as this could be dangerous if done incorrectly

Preparing for a fire can help prevent significant damage.

Preparing your business for a fire can help to prevent significant damage. If you are in a situation where your business is threatened by fire, there is a high chance that the building and structure can sustain extensive structural damage, as well as materials that have been stored inside it. This could include products and inventory you may have on hand.

It’s also important to consider the safety of your employees and contractors if any are present currently. You don’t want them to be injured during an emergency or evacuation process because they weren’t aware of what was going on until it was too late, so make sure everyone has access to information about how they should respond in case of emergency.

Fire is a serious threat to business and property, but by taking the time to plan for emergencies and keep your employees trained on what to do in case of an emergency, you can reduce the risk of fire damage significantly. Having an evacuation plan and knowing where all the fire extinguishers are located will help everyone stay safe in case there's a fire, while installing sprinklers or smoke detectors will detect any danger before it gets out of control.

Why Mold Growth Should Be Taken Seriously by Building Owners

8/30/2022 (Permalink)

Mold damage in a commercial building

Why Building Owners Should Take Mold Growth Seriously

When you lease or rent building space to clients, you have a number of responsibilities to maintain the property according to community standards. If you fail to do this, you could leave your company open to lawsuits. Mold insurance claims cover both property damages as the result of mold growth as well as certain liability issues. The presence of mold in your building could cause harm to your clients or tenants in a variety of ways:

• A business disruption
• A safety issue
• The destruction of personal items
• Health effects

Any of these problems could lead to a mold claim against your company. Fortunately, there are effective ways to prevent and treat a mold outbreak.

Mold Prevention
As with most problems, it is always better to avoid the issue than to have to clean it up. Understanding how mold grows is the key to preventing its appearance. Excess moisture is the primary cause of a fungal outbreak. An outbreak often happens after a leak that brings water into a building is not cleaned up in a professional manner. This enables mold that is present in a building to grow into colonies that harm materials and even degrade air quality. Many mold insurance claims come about because of a water leak.

Mold Remediation
A professional mold mitigation franchise such as SERVPRO is always Here to Help. If your building has a serious mold problem, highly-trained technicians perform an assessment and inspection that quickly identifies the extent of the problem. They will use equipment such as containment barriers, HEPA vacuums and air scrubbers to get the fungus under control. They will remove mold and mold-infested materials, clean contents and belongings and restore or replace any damaged items. A professional cleanup and restoration go a long way toward minimizing any mold insurance claims. Your clients or tenants can feel confident that the problem is taken care of once and for all.

Why SERVPRO May Be the Franchise for You

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Kingwood/Humble is Faster to Any Emergency!

Why SERVPRO Might Be the Right Fit for You

As a future business owner in Magnolia Gardens, TX, you may be wondering which franchise might be the right one for you. If you are intrigued by the idea of a company with a proven business model and outstanding support, a SERVPRO franchise might be worth looking into.

Franchise owners enjoy many benefits, including:

• Brand recognition
  
• Onboarding training from headquarters
  
• Ongoing support from headquarters
  
• Brand recognition
  
• In-house financing
  
• Preferred vendor status
  
• Unique industry certifications
  
• Helping those in need
  
  

With all of the above perks, the networks and connections are already established for you. This is one of the reasons that SERVPRO has been rated the top restoration service franchise by Entrepreneur Magazine.

What Is Certified SERVPRO Cleaned?
SERVPRO cleaning came about because of the covid-19 pandemic. Many workers were hesitant to return to the office out of fear that the premises were not properly cleaned and sanitized. This program is based on the CDC and EPA's protocols and best practices to destroy viruses. During this time of uncertainty, offering this level of protection can work to expand your potential customer base.

How Does Ownership Work?
Each SERVPRO franchise is locally owned and operated. As a leader in the restoration and remediation of fire, water, smoke, mold, and other disasters, there is a lot for a new owner to learn. SERVPRO does not expect its franchisees to already know how to help customers restore their homes and businesses after a disaster. That is why the company offers initial and ongoing training at its headquarters in Gallatin, Tenessee. As a franchise owner, you will not be left on your own to figure out the business.
Owning a SERVPRO franchise is a rewarding career that allows you to operate a successful business while helping people during difficult times. If you are searching for a complete business system that has been proven successful, you may enjoy joining the restoration and remediation industry.

Important Issues With Mold Insurance Claims

5/22/2022 (Permalink)

Mold damage in Porter, TX.

Important Mold Insurance Claims Issues

Business owners and managers need to keep a close eye on their commercial insurance coverage. It is an ongoing battle to make sure the policy covers what it should and that premiums are not too high. To accomplish this, those in a position of authority should look at their policies at least once a year, especially in regard to gaps in coverage and too dangerous exposures to lawsuits. Mold insurance claims can be an area that requires constant monitoring. The insurance provider should be able to recommend coverage that makes sense in this regard. Some companies might need more coverage than others when it comes to mold issues.

Liability
A commercial property in Porter, TX, that has mold could be sued for liability. While there are many gray areas related to mold insurance claims, it is a serious issue for a company. The following business models are at a higher risk for liability lawsuits as a result of a mold claim:

• Apartment complexes
  
• Office buildings
  
• Leased buildings
  
• Multi-unit properties
  
  

Managers should always take mold issues seriously. Failure to act swiftly and responsibly could lead to an adverse judgment in a liability case.

Property Damage
Because a mold outbreak can cause significant property damage, mold remediation should start as soon as possible. A local mold mitigation team can arrive at a property quickly and recommend the best course of action. This is often the surest way to avoid lawsuits. It is also an excellent way to minimize damages as a result of a mold outbreak. Technicians can perform a variety of vital actions, including testing, containment, removal and restoration. In certain cases, commercial insurance does cover the cost of cleanup and repair for mold mitigation services. Business owners should learn as much as possible about minimizing mold insurance claims.

3 Common Effects of Water Damage on Ceiling Tiles

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

Mold growth on the ceiling.

Water Damage to Ceiling Tiles

Water damage can have telltale effects on the appearance and condition of the tiles on a ceiling. Short of tile mold, visible signs of disintegration, distortion or staining may be evident. Find out more about three common effects leaks can have on commercial ceiling tiles at a building located in Humble, TX.

1. Causing Stains To Appear On Tiles

As soon as water makes contact with expanded polystyrene, fiberglass, cork, or other ceiling materials, stains may start to become apparent. Tile discoloration may not be immediately discernible, but dried damage from water on various ceiling styles tends to turn the tiles brown over time. Signs of problems may become more visible in the following days, weeks and months if the owner or building manager fails to undertake water damage restoration.

2. Distorting the Texture of the Ceiling

Nearly any type of ceiling material becomes distorted in appearance after moderate to major damage involving water. Fast leaks from plumbing supply lines or a big breach in roofing materials may cause ceilings to sag or swell. A slow leak may not show signs of a distorted texture until tile mold starts to grow. Mold may be fuzzy, spongy or slimy in appearance and tends to grow in patterns.

3. Undermining the Ceiling Materials

Porous ceiling materials will not be the same after saturation with water. Ceilings may start to crack, crumble or flake and leave behind residues on floors and surfaces. It is often necessary to replace absorbent ceiling materials such as polystyrene, cork or fiberglass. It may be possible to clean mold off of plastic or metal commercial ceilings.

Commercial property owners or managers may notice a distorted texture or staining before ceiling tiles start disintegrating. It is important to act quickly to limit damage and risks of occupant exposure to tile mold. Schedule an inspection to determine the cause and degree of damage to a building in Humble, TX.

Tips for Clearing Away Smoke and Soot Damage

1/25/2022 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot damage was caused in a Porter, TX building.

Smoke Cleaning Process

One of the hardest parts about dealing with the aftermath of a fire is the impending cleanup process. After all, smoke damage and soot damage can be highly unsafe, not to mention unhealthy, for anyone near it to be around for very long. Here are some useful tips to start the smoke cleaning process in a commercial setting in Porter, TX, and ways with which you should protect yourself from the harmful effects of fire damage.

? Simple, mild detergent or everyday household soap can wash soot and grime off the walls. Mixed with water or small amounts of bleach or other cleaners, the soapy solution you create can be effective in cleaning the walls, wooden flooring and non-upholstered furniture with ease. Working in small sections at a time is ideal for efficiency, and any cleaned areas should be rinsed with water immediately, before they dry, to prevent more issues later.

? Smoke odor can be canceled out by cleaning products with TSP (tri-sodium phosphate). Smoke damage doesn’t just visibly leave its mark; it can leave an unbearable, lasting odor as well. Thankfully, cleaning solutions with TSP can diminish the smoky odor in any fabric furnishings or decor. Only a few tablespoons mixed with a cup of bleach for every gallon of warm water creates the right formula to rid a space of obtrusive smells.

? Toss any food items or beverages that were in the range of soot, smoke or debris. Dishes and silverware can be washed and polished, but any edible products should simply be discarded to prevent illnesses that can arise from eating contaminated food or drinking dirty liquids.

Keep these helpful suggestions in mind when it comes to clearing away smoke damage, soot damage and any other potentially hazardous remains due to an uncontrollable blaze. Most importantly, starting up the smoke cleaning process is the first step to getting back to normal life after such a devastating ordeal.