Water Damage in Commercial Buildings

2/22/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage in commercial buildings can cause extensive disruption to business operations, leading to expensive repair and restoration costs. However, when the right steps are taken immediately following a water incident, businesses can save thousands of dollars through preventative measures like professional water damage restoration services. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the ways commercial property owners can use water damage prevention and restoration solutions to minimize their financial losses. Keep reading to find out how you can protect your business from costly repairs or insurance claims!

One of the main advantages of investing in commercial water damage restoration is that it helps to save businesses money. By promptly and properly restoring a business’s property back to its original condition, companies can avoid costly repairs or replacements that would otherwise have to be done if an area had been left untreated. 

Commercial water damage restoration services also help reduce lost profits due to business closures. When businesses can keep their doors open, they are more likely to remain profitable and successful in the long term. This is especially true for businesses located near bodies of water where flooding could be a common occurrence. 

In addition to saving money on repairs and lost productivity, investing in commercial water damage restoration can also help businesses reduce their insurance costs. By restoring property quickly and efficiently, businesses may be eligible for additional discounts from their insurer thanks to their proactive approach to maintenance. This could save them even more money over time! 

The most cost-effective way for businesses to handle water damage is by hiring experienced professionals who specialize in commercial water damage restoration. These professionals have the training and expertise to identify and address any potential problems quickly before the damage worsens and costs become unmanageable. Professionals also use advanced equipment and techniques to restore an area back to its pre-damaged state, so businesses can get back up and running as soon as possible. 

In relation, commercial water damage restoration professionals are specially trained in identifying areas that could become long-term problems due to excess moisture or standing water. From inspecting ceilings for potential leaks to repairing damaged walls and floors, these experts have the experience and knowledge necessary to mitigate losses quickly. Additionally, they are also able to provide advice on preventing water damage in the future, such as installing a sump pump or ensuring all plumbing fixtures are properly maintained.

Commercial water damage restoration services are also invaluable for businesses that rely on computers or other sensitive electronics. By restoring damaged items instead of having them replaced, these companies are able to save a substantial amount of money. In addition, these services can help recover precious data that could otherwise be lost if the affected items had been discarded. 

Overall, commercial water damage restoration is a cost-effective solution for businesses that are looking to protect their investments and remain profitable.  With the help of experienced professionals such as our team at Water Damage America, Inc., businesses can restore their property back to its original condition and quickly get back up and running. In addition, they can save money by restoring instead of replacing items that have been damaged due to water exposure. Investing in commercial water damage restoration is a smart decision for businesses of all sizes. So, what are you waiting for? 

Top Causes of Commercial Water Damages

2/22/2023 (Permalink)

While many cases of water damage are experienced by homeowners in the US, commercial buildings are also not immune to water damage. In fact, a data from a survey conducted by the American Housing Survey of the U.S. Census showed that out of 100 representatives of US office buildings, 85% of these are past water damage, while 45% are experiencing current leaks.

It is already common knowledge how disastrous water damage can be. It will impact your business physically and financially. And the best way to minimize its damage on your business is to deal with it right away. Knowing what causes water damage is also crucial to be able to find the right solution to fix it.

Major Causes of Water Damage
Did you know that a leaking faucet can cost you more or less 250 gallons of water each month? There are 12 months in a year; do the math and you will get an idea of the amount of money you get to waste each year for a single unfixed leaking faucet. Below are the 6 most common causes of commercial water damage.

Damaged sprinkler system
The law requires all commercial entities to have a sprinkler system, along with a fire alarm, installed in the building for safety purposes in case of fire. The sprinkler system should only get activated when there is too much heat from fire. However, over time, the sprinkler can get broken and malfunction. When this happens, the sprinkler can get activated even without fire leading to serious flooding within the building.

Roof leaks
The roof should protect the occupants and everything within the building from the external elements such as the heat from the sun and rain. But a leaky roof does otherwise. As the roof gets older, it also becomes more vulnerable to heavy rains and snow, resulting in water damage in your building’s roof.

Broken HVAC system
Your business’ HVAC system is an essential part in maintaining the temperature of your building and to make its occupants comfortable. Studies have also shown that your HVAC system can also impact the productivity level of your employees. However, like any other part of your commercial building, your HVAC system can also experience issues such as clogging and leaking. An HVAC system that is not cleaned and maintained regularly can cause water damage from the excess water in the compression tanks.

Broken equipment and appliances
Sometimes, your building may have appliances such as a water heater, AC, washing machine, and others. Apart from that, there are also pipes within the building that can get damage anytime and cause water damage in the commercial space. Major problems happen if these equipment and appliances get broken and no one notices it or during off-hours as it can leak a significant amount of water.

Damaged windows
Another common cause of water damage in commercial buildings are the damaged windows. Rain water and moisture can seep through especially if the windows are not properly maintained and need re-caulking. While it may not cause immediate flooding, it can do great damage on the drywall and can encourage mold growth.

Natural disaster
Apart from the damage in your building’s foundation and roof, water damage in commercial buildings can also be caused by natural disasters like hurricanes, thunderstorms, and heavy rain resulting in flash floods. Clogged gutters can lead rainwater to flow towards the foundation of your building, making it more vulnerable to water damage.
Commercial water damage is a devastating problem that any business owner can experience. While there is no way to totally get rid of the threats of water damage on your building, knowing its most common causes will help you minimize the risk.

Why an Emergency Ready Profile(ERP)?

7/13/2022 (Permalink)

As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. And knowing you are "Ready for whatever happens" speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event your business is affected by a disaster, they don’t necessarily have to be.

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

• A no cost assessment of your facility.
  This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.
   
• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
  It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed.
   
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
  This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.
   
• Establishes SERVPRO of Morton Grove/East Niles as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
  You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by.
   
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
  This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money.
   
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.
  Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are "Ready for whatever happens."

Call Us Today to set up your ERP 847-983-4468

Restoring your Morton Grove/East Niles Commercial Property after a Water Damage Event

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

Flooding and water damage events at Morton Grove/East Niles commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So, when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Morton Grove/East Niles

SERVPRO of Morton Grove/East Niles specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Feel free to give us a call at 847-983-4468. 

5 Important Workplace Winter Safety Tips

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

Some view winter weather as a welcome excused absence from work or school. Others must still find their way into the office. What they don’t want to encounter on their way are slick sidewalks, power outages, or the worst – inching your way through icy gridlock only to learn after they’ve battled the weather that the office is, in fact, closed. “Sorry,” simply won’t suffice.
Reduce your risk for injuries and dissatisfied employees by doing your part to protect and inform them on bad weather days. You may not be able to stop the snow, rain, and wind, but you can ensure every employee has a safe way to an office that is in working condition.

1. Get Them There Safely

You can’t make the roads to your office building safe, but you can inform your employees which roads are passable. This isn’t always easy, especially if you have employees on different devices and in various locations.
Geotargeting is a great way to focus communications within particular areas that are affected by weather. When integrated into your mass communications system, you instantly have a simple and quick way to send impacted employees a push notification or text, notifying them of the safest route. You can even see issues (like road closures) on a map, so you can notify employees of relevant travel issues.

2. Prepare Mobile and Outdoor Employees

If you have personnel who must drive for their job, it’s your duty to properly train and equip them. Employees who work outdoors are also vulnerable to weather conditions. Many times, these workers will need to halt their duties until the weather clears. On the other hand, some (like electrical repair crews) are even busier during bad weather. When these workers are in the elements, they can have a heightened danger of injuries and accidents. Equip them with a way to call for immediate help.

3. Fortify the Office

Did you know that falls involving ice, sleet, or snow are one of the biggest risks people face during the winter months? In fact, in 2014, there were 42,480 workplace injuries involving snow and ice that required at least one day away from work to recuperate. And those are just the falls that people reported!
You can’t prevent all falls, but you can salt the parking lot, sidewalks, and steps ahead of time. You can also place large, absorbent mats at every entrance to prevent slips once employees are inside the building.

Ask your building’s superintendent to check the heating and electric systems, as it is common for power lines to go down in ice storms or high winds. These power outages can last for days, crippling operations for any business. Should power go down while employees are at work, be sure you have a plan as to if and how employees are expected to continue to work, as well as a communication plan in place to notify employees of the outage and their instructions.

4. Communicate Effectively and Often

Your employees are going to expect some type of communication when they know a big storm is coming. Don’t leave them hanging! A mass communication system with geotargeting capabilities is a perfect solution to ensure the right messaging is getting to the right employees. Don’t rely on email or voicemails. Those can get lost in the shuffle, if they are ever checked at all.
An emergency alert system is designed to reach every employee, despite their physical location, on multiple communication channels. This means your employees can receive alerts and notifications on their mobile device via texts, push notifications, email and/or voice calls that can either provide all of the relevant information or direct them to a link to a comprehensive web page. No matter where they are, what they do, or what mobile device they are using, they will receive the information they need. You can also use the geotargeting system to segment your audience by location so that only the employees in the affected area receive the notifications.

5. Don’t Dismiss Other Winter Threats

Bad winter weather isn’t the only thing companies and employees must grapple with during the winter months. Colder temperatures often come with a rise in illnesses, such as the flu. According to the CDC, influenza often begins to increase in October and November, peaking from December through February. Beyond illnesses, winter often brings a higher risk for fires. People turn up the heat, using space heaters, fires, and even ovens to warm a home. If you allow space heaters in the office, be sure to educate your employees on proper use, such as not placing anything within three feet of the heater.

What Your Employees Want to Know

It’s easy to assume employees will be watching the news and weather reports, but many won’t. Be sure you have a way to communicate with all of your employees about the weather and its disruptions in the schedule.

What do they most need to know?

• Whether commutes have become impossible
• Whether power outages or surges will impact their work
• Emergency contact information
• Status of any delivery delays
• Any modifications to work hours and/or shifts
• Where they can find updates
• Whether they can work from home
The most important thing you can do is let your employees know you have their best interest at heart. This means keeping them informed before, during, and after the weather event. The fortunate part about most winter weather storms is that they are predictable, and therefore plannable. Be sure your emergency plan is current and relevant to each location. Ensure every employee understands the intricacies of the plan.
Do what you can now to prepare and be sure you have a communication system that will help you get the word out fast. It will make these cold winter months more tolerable for you and your employees.

About SERVPRO of Morton Grove/East Niles

SERVPRO of Morton Grove/East Niles specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Mold Growing in your Business?

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

Mold Growing in Your Business

No Worries call SERVPRO of Morton Grove/East Niles for your mold inquires.

Leaving mold untreated can lead to an unsafe environment in your business as well as surrounding businesses. SERVPRO of Morton Grove/East Niles has skilled technicians to treat and mitigate the mold before it has the chance to spread into the surroundings.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Morton Grove/East Niles specializes in mold cleanup and restoration.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

If you suspect mold in your business, Please Call SERVPRO of Morton Grove/East Niles at 847-983-4468. Fast, Friendly, and Reliable Service. We will get your business "Like it never even happened."

Office Building Guide to Indoor Air Quality

2/22/2022 (Permalink)

What You Can Do to Improve the Indoor Air in Your Office:

• Do not block air vents or grilles.
• Comply with the office and building smoking policy.
• Water and maintain office plants properly.
• Dispose of garbage promptly and properly.
• Store food properly.
• Avoid bringing products into the building that could release harmful or bothersome odors or contaminants.
• Notify your building or facility manager immediately if you suspect an indoor air quality problem.

If You Manage an Office:

• Maintain a good working relationship with building management on indoor environmental issues.
• Place office furniture and equipment with air circulation, temperature control, and pollutant removal functions of the heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system in mind.
• Coordinate with building management in instances when responsibility for design, operation and maintenance of the ventilation system is shared.
• Establish an effective smoking policy that protects nonsmokers from involuntary exposure to secondhand smoke.
• Avoid procedures and products that can cause indoor air quality problems.
• Integrate indoor air quality concerns into your purchasing decisions.
• Work with the building manager to ensure use of only necessary and appropriate pest control practices, and nonchemical methods where possible.
• Work with building management and the contractor before you remodel or renovate to identify ways of keeping building occupant exposure to pollutants to a minimum and to ensure that the air distribution system is not disrupted.
• Encourage building management to develop a preventive indoor air quality management program following guidance issued by EPA and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).

About SERVPRO of Morton Grove/East Niles

SERVPRO of Morton Grove/East Niles specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Call us at 847-983-4468

Prepare for Any Weather Emergency

9/1/2021 (Permalink)

Weather events impact small businesses every day. In fiscal year 2015, the U.S. Small Business Administration provided 46,000 businesses and individuals with $2.8 billion in disaster loans.  No owner wants to believe it could happen to them, but severe weather is an issue no matter where you are located.

Follow these steps to prepare for any weather emergency:

1. Develop a Plan. How will you manage in the event of a weather disaster? Who is responsible for doing what? What do you need to run your business at a remote site? Stock up on necessary storm supplies, and make sure you can access your data.
2. Understand Your Coverage. In addition to property and casualty insurance, talk to your broker about adding business interruption insurance to your business owner’s policy.
3. Watch the Weather. Knowing about a storm as soon as possible gives you and your team ample time to prepare for the worst and get as much done as possible. This additional time could be used to make crucial game-changing decisions.  A NOAA weather radio can help, especially for immediate threats like flash floods and tornadoes.

For help restoring your commercial space after a water loss, call SERVPRO of Morton Grove/East Niles at 847-983-4468. We’ll make it “Like it never even happened.”

Protect Your Business From Fire

5/25/2021 (Permalink)

Five key things a business owner needs to know about fire safety to keep their employees, customers, and property safe from fire damage:

Building Fire Exits
If there is a fire, you need to be sure your employees and customers have a way to get out of your building. OSHA requires that all workplace buildings have at least two fire exits that are not located in close proximity to each other that can be used in a fire emergency. This can be a door, window, or other space large enough for a person to crawl through and access the outdoors.

OSHA also requires that you keep those fire exits clear. The only thing that is allowed to block or delay the opening of a fire door is an approved alarm system that is part of the fire door’s design. Also, exit routes from the buildings need to be free of any obstructions. Finally, all exit routes must be clearly marked with lighted exit signs.

Including Portable Fire Extinguishers
All workplace buildings are required by OSHA to have the proper type of fire extinguisher based on the type of fire hazards present. For instance, a building with a kitchen will need a fire extinguisher for grease fires, while a building with electrical fire hazards will need one for that purpose. Any employee who is in a position to need to use the fire extinguisher should be properly trained on how to use it. Once installed, fire extinguishers must be kept in good working order. It is not permissible for fire extinguishers to be left unchecked and untested. Make sure that you follow the recommended testing and inspection schedule from the extinguisher’s manufacture, and document those inspections.

Planning for Emergency Evacuation
Employers should provide written emergency action plans for employees to ensure everyone knows where exit routes are and what fire emergency procedures are in place. Employers and managers need a plan to account for all employees if the building is evacuated. This plan needs to be located somewhere that employees can review it. If your business has physically impaired employees, the plan must include steps to take to evacuate those employees quickly and safely. As part of this planning, make sure that you properly train your employees on what to do in the event of a fire. Do not assume that common sense will prevail and your employees will know what to do. Provide training and clear policies to be followed in the event of a fire, and review the training every six months to one year. As part of your plan, host regular fire drills. These allow employees to practice the evacuation procedures when there is no actual emergency. Make sure everyone is accounted for and all proper lockdown procedures are followed during drills, so your employees will be prepared for an actual fire event.

Planning for Fire Prevention
While having a plan for dealing with emergencies is good, the best plan is to prevent emergencies altogether. The National Fire Protection Association has a list of fire prevention regulations and tips that can help your business prevent any dangers that are common in the line of work you perform. Teach your employees proper fire prevention to ward off an emergency altogether. Keep in mind that prevention measures will vary depending on the type of business you run. A welding business is going to need different safety protocols than an office that uses computers for the majority of its work. A kitchen, where open flames are a daily occurrence, is going to have an even more lengthy set of guidelines.

Providing a Fire Suppression System
Finally, OSHA requires fire suppression systems in most workplaces, such as automatic sprinkler systems. When these systems detect a fire, they automatically spray water and sound the alarm to help suppress and control the fire while alerting the proper authorities. Like fire extinguishers, these systems need to be inspected and maintained to ensure they will work properly if a fire occurs.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today –847-983-4468

Office Building Guide to Indoor Air Quality

2/5/2021 (Permalink)

What You Can Do to Improve the Indoor Air in Your Office:

• Do not block air vents or grilles.
• Comply with the office and building smoking policy.
• Water and maintain office plants properly.
• Dispose of garbage promptly and properly.
• Store food properly.
• Avoid bringing products into the building that could release harmful or bothersome odors or contaminants.
• Notify your building or facility manager immediately if you suspect an indoor air quality problem.

If You Manage an Office:

• Maintain a good working relationship with building management on indoor environmental issues.
• Place office furniture and equipment with air circulation, temperature control, and pollutant removal functions of the heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system in mind.
• Coordinate with building management in instances when responsibility for design, operation and maintenance of the ventilation system is shared.
• Establish an effective smoking policy that protects nonsmokers from involuntary exposure to secondhand smoke.
• Avoid procedures and products that can cause indoor air quality problems.
• Integrate indoor air quality concerns into your purchasing decisions.
• Work with the building manager to ensure use of only necessary and appropriate pest control practices, and nonchemical methods where possible.
• Work with building management and the contractor before you remodel or renovate to identify ways of keeping building occupant exposure to pollutants to a minimum and to ensure that the air distribution system is not disrupted.
• Encourage building management to develop a preventive indoor air quality management program following guidance issued by EPA and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).

About SERVPRO of Morton Grove/East Niles

SERVPRO of Morton Grove/East Niles specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Call us at 847-983-4468

Prepare Your Business

2/4/2021 (Permalink)

Five key things a business owner needs to know about fire safety to keep their employees, customers, and property safe from fire damage:
1. Building Fire Exits
If there is a fire, you need to be sure your employees and customers have a way to get out of your building. OSHA requires that all workplace buildings have at least two fire exits that are not located in close proximity to each other that can be used in a fire emergency. This can be a door, window, or other space large enough for a person to crawl through and access the outdoors.
OSHA also requires that you keep those fire exits clear. The only thing that is allowed to block or delay the opening of a fire door is an approved alarm system that is part of the fire door’s design. Also, exit routes from the buildings need to be free of any obstructions. Finally, all exit routes must be clearly marked with lighted exit signs.
2. Including Portable Fire Extinguishers
All workplace buildings are required by OSHA to have the proper type of fire extinguisher based on the type of fire hazards present. For instance, a building with a kitchen will need a fire extinguisher for grease fires, while a building with electrical fire hazards will need one for that purpose. Any employee who is in a position to need to use the fire extinguisher should be properly trained on how to use it. Once installed, fire extinguishers must be kept in good working order. It is not permissible for fire extinguishers to be left unchecked and untested. Make sure that you follow the recommended testing and inspection schedule from the extinguisher’s manufacture, and document those inspections.
3. Planning for Emergency Evacuation
Employers should provide written emergency action plans for employees to ensure everyone knows where exit routes are and what fire emergency procedures are in place. Employers and managers need a plan to account for all employees if the building is evacuated. This plan needs to be located somewhere that employees can review it. If your business has physically impaired employees, the plan must include steps to take to evacuate those employees quickly and safely. As part of this planning, make sure that you properly train your employees on what to do in the event of a fire. Do not assume that common sense will prevail and your employees will know what to do. Provide training and clear policies to be followed in the event of a fire, and review the training every six months to one year. As part of your plan, host regular fire drills. These allow employees to practice the evacuation procedures when there is no actual emergency. Make sure everyone is accounted for and all proper lockdown procedures are followed during drills, so your employees will be prepared for an actual fire event.
4. Planning for Fire Prevention
While having a plan for dealing with emergencies is good, the best plan is to prevent emergencies altogether. The National Fire Protection Association has a list of fire prevention regulations and tips that can help your business prevent any dangers that are common in the line of work you perform. Teach your employees proper fire prevention to ward off an emergency altogether. Keep in mind that prevention measures will vary depending on the type of business you run. A welding business is going to need different safety protocols than an office that uses computers for the majority of its work. A kitchen, where open flames are a daily occurrence, is going to have an even more lengthy set of guidelines.
5. Providing a Fire Suppression System
Finally, OSHA requires fire suppression systems in most workplaces, such as automatic sprinkler systems. When these systems detect a fire, they automatically spray water and sound the alarm to help suppress and control the fire while alerting the proper authorities. Like fire extinguishers, these systems need to be inspected and maintained to ensure they will work properly if a fire occurs.
Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today –847-983-4468

5 IMPORTANT WINTER WORKPLACE SAFETY TIPS

1/22/2020 (Permalink)

Some view winter weather as a welcome excused absence from work or school. Others must still find their way into the office. What they don’t want to encounter on their way are slick sidewalks, power outages, or the worst – inching your way through icy gridlock only to learn after they’ve battled the weather that the office is, in fact, closed. “Sorry,” simply won’t suffice.
Reduce your risk for injuries and dissatisfied employees by doing your part to protect and inform them on bad weather days. You may not be able to stop the snow, rain, and wind, but you can ensure every employee has a safe way to an office that is in working condition.

1. Get Them There Safely

You can’t make the roads to your office building safe, but you can inform your employees which roads are passable. This isn’t always easy, especially if you have employees on different devices and in various locations.
Geotargeting is a great way to focus communications within particular areas that are affected by weather. When integrated into your mass communications system, you instantly have a simple and quick way to send impacted employees a push notification or text, notifying them of the safest route. You can even see issues (like road closures) on a map, so you can notify employees of relevant travel issues.

2. Prepare Mobile and Outdoor Employees

If you have personnel who must drive for their job, it’s your duty to properly train and equip them. Employees who work outdoors are also vulnerable to weather conditions. Many times, these workers will need to halt their duties until the weather clears. On the other hand, some (like electrical repair crews) are even busier during bad weather. When these workers are in the elements, they can have a heightened danger of injuries and accidents. Equip them with a way to call for immediate help.

3. Fortify the Office

Did you know that falls involving ice, sleet, or snow are one of the biggest risks people face during the winter months? In fact, in 2014, there were 42,480 workplace injuries involving snow and ice that required at least one day away from work to recuperate. And those are just the falls that people reported!
You can’t prevent all falls, but you can salt the parking lot, sidewalks, and steps ahead of time. You can also place large, absorbent mats at every entrance to prevent slips once employees are inside the building.

Ask your building’s superintendent to check the heating and electric systems, as it is common for power lines to go down in ice storms or high winds. These power outages can last for days, crippling operations for any business. Should power go down while employees are at work, be sure you have a plan as to if and how employees are expected to continue to work, as well as a communication plan in place to notify employees of the outage and their instructions.

4. Communicate Effectively and Often

Your employees are going to expect some type of communication when they know a big storm is coming. Don’t leave them hanging! A mass communication system with geotargeting capabilities is a perfect solution to ensure the right messaging is getting to the right employees. Don’t rely on email or voicemails. Those can get lost in the shuffle, if they are ever checked at all.
An emergency alert system is designed to reach every employee, despite their physical location, on multiple communication channels. This means your employees can receive alerts and notifications on their mobile device via texts, push notifications, email and/or voice calls that can either provide all of the relevant information or direct them to a link to a comprehensive web page. No matter where they are, what they do, or what mobile device they are using, they will receive the information they need. You can also use the geotargeting system to segment your audience by location so that only the employees in the affected area receive the notifications.

5. Don’t Dismiss Other Winter Threats

Bad winter weather isn’t the only thing companies and employees must grapple with during the winter months. Colder temperatures often come with a rise in illnesses, such as the flu. According to the CDC, influenza often begins to increase in October and November, peaking from December through February. Beyond illnesses, winter often brings a higher risk for fires. People turn up the heat, using space heaters, fires, and even ovens to warm a home. If you allow space heaters in the office, be sure to educate your employees on proper use, such as not placing anything within three feet of the heater.

What Your Employees Want to Know

It’s easy to assume employees will be watching the news and weather reports, but many won’t. Be sure you have a way to communicate with all of your employees about the weather and its disruptions in the schedule.

What do they most need to know?

• Whether commutes have become impossible
• Whether power outages or surges will impact their work
• Emergency contact information
• Status of any delivery delays
• Any modifications to work hours and/or shifts
• Where they can find updates
• Whether they can work from home
The most important thing you can do is let your employees know you have their best interest at heart. This means keeping them informed before, during, and after the weather event. The fortunate part about most winter weather storms is that they are predictable, and therefore plannable. Be sure your emergency plan is current and relevant to each location. Ensure every employee understands the intricacies of the plan.
Do what you can now to prepare and be sure you have a communication system that will help you get the word out fast. It will make these cold winter months more tolerable for you and your employees.

About SERVPRO of Morton Grove/East Niles

SERVPRO of Morton Grove/East Niles specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

FIRE SAFETY TIPS FOR THE WORKPLACE

1/17/2020 (Permalink)

GENERAL PRECAUTIONS IN THE WORKPLACE

Eliminate workplace fire hazards:

• Damaged electrical outlets, cords, cables, etc.
• Overloaded outlets and circuits.

• Combustible objects in unsecured locations (included excessive trash and recycling)—keep these far from electrical equipment!

• Fire exit obstacles.

• Keep work space and equipment clean, dry, and well-ventilated, and especially clean of oil and dust.

Prepare for emergencies:

• Follow work space protocol and guidelines to ensure safety and health; know and understand rules and procedures concerning fire emergencies.
• Ensure that smoke alarms and sprinkler systems are installed, working properly, and are not blocked.
• Conduct regular fire drills.

Employers should follow these workplace fire safety tips:

• Post clear fire escape plans on every level.

• Educate all employees on emergency procedures, exit locations, escape routes, fire alarms and drills, and the use of fire extinguishers.

• Conduct regular drills.

• Install and properly maintain all fire safety equipment.

• Provide for disabled employees.

HAZARDOUS ELECTRICS AND EQUIPMENT

• Use only electrical products evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory (i.e. UL).

• Immediately replace damaged, hazardous equipment.

• Look out for anything that appears overheated, smells strange, or delivers electrical shock.
• Replace all damaged, worn, frayed, or old wires.
• Only use three-prong plugs in three-slot outlets (and, similarly: two-slot plug into two-slot outlets).

• Equipment that emanates substantial heat should be at least several feet away from combustible surfaces and objects.

• Heaters must include a thermostat control mechanism.

SMOKE ALARMS: A NECESSITY, NOT AN OPTION

• Invest smoke detectors for every room or office.
• Install dual sensor smoke alarms; make sure they contain both ionization and photoelectric smoke sensors.
• Test your smoke detectors (and sprinkler system) once a month.
• Replace the batteries at least once a year (possible exception: non-replaceable 10-year lithium batteries; still, be sure to test them); many manufacturers also encourage a replacement of the smoke detectors after a decade.
• Never disable a smoke alarm.

A NO-SMOKING ZONE IS LESS OF A DANGER ZONE

• Keep the work space a no-smoking zone. If you must smoke, smoke outdoors, and always ensure that you properly extinguish the cigarette in a sand-filled can, or drown cigarette butts and ashes in water.
• Never throw away hot cigarette butts or ashes without attending to them properly.

IN CASE OF FIRE: FOLLOW THE EVACUATION PLAN

• Immediately call 911 in case of a fire.
• Know and understand the fire emergency and evacuation plan.
• Plan at multiple escape routes from as many locations as possible.
• Check the condition of fire ladders and fire escapes; ladders should be collapsible and have been evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory (i.e. UL); fire escapes need to be stable, secure, and easily accessible.
• Ensure that windows don’t become obstacles; glass should be opened easily and screens should be swiftly removed.
• Never use the elevator. Walk—don’t run—down the stairs.

If you cannot evacuate:

• Remain calm and put as much distance as possible between yourself and the fire.
• Seal all cracks with wet materials (towels, jackets) to prevent smoke from seeping into the room.
• Wait at the window; shout for help and signal your location by waving the most visible object.
• Open the window for air, but try not to break it; you may need to close it if smoke begins to seep in.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today –847-983-4468

Timely Tips for Winter Safety

1/17/2020 (Permalink)

According to the Accident Fund Insurance Company of America and United Heartland, during the winter, slips and falls represent one-third of all workers' compensation claims.

Every employer should have an effective safety and health management system in place to protect its most valuable asset: its employees. Employers should prepare for winter conditions and provide helpful information to their employees on how to avoid injury and illness.
Worker injuries can negatively affect a business's bottom line, resulting in increased workers' compensation and insurance costs, overtime, and lost work days for employees. By taking the proper safety precautions this winter, job providers can avoid nasty slips and falls that will cost them in the future.

The following tips can help increase winter safety:
• Keep all walkways cleared of ice and snow.
• Have de-icing products handy for hard-to-remove ice or snow.
• Make sure all walkways and passageways are clearly marked and well lit.
• Be careful of slippery surfaces inside buildings.
• Wear slip-resistant footwear.
• Practice safe walking on slippery surfaces by taking slow, small steps.
• Avoid carrying heavy loads that may offset your balance.
• Clearly mark or barricade hazardous areas.
• Wear sunglasses on sunny days to lessen winter glare.
• Take extra precautions when entering and exiting vehicles.
• Know the symptoms of frostbite and the first aid steps to address it.

About SERVPRO of Morton Grove/East Niles

SERVPRO of Morton Grove/East Niles specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Mold Growing in Your Business

8/14/2019 (Permalink)

Mold Growing in Your Business

No Worries call SERVPRO of Morton Grove/East Niles for your mold inquires.

Leaving mold untreated can lead to an unsafe environment in your business as well as surrounding businesses. SERVPRO of Morton Grove/East Niles has skilled technicians to treat and mitigate the mold before it has the chance to spread into the surroundings.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Morton Grove/East Niles specializes in mold cleanup and restoration.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

If you suspect mold in your business, Please Call SERVPRO of Morton Grove/East Niles at 847-983-4468. Fast, Friendly, and Reliable Service. We will get your business "Like it never even happened."

An Office Building Occupants Guide to Indoor Air Quality

7/20/2018 (Permalink)

What You Can Do to Improve the Indoor Air in Your Office:

• Do not block air vents or grilles.
• Comply with the office and building smoking policy.
• Water and maintain office plants properly.
• Dispose of garbage promptly and properly.
• Store food properly.
• Avoid bringing products into the building that could release harmful or bothersome odors or contaminants.
• Notify your building or facility manager immediately if you suspect an indoor air quality problem.

If You Manage an Office:

• Maintain a good working relationship with building management on indoor environmental issues.
• Place office furniture and equipment with air circulation, temperature control, and pollutant removal functions of the heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system in mind.
• Coordinate with building management in instances when responsibility for design, operation and maintenance of the ventilation system is shared.
• Establish an effective smoking policy that protects nonsmokers from involuntary exposure to secondhand smoke.
• Avoid procedures and products that can cause indoor air quality problems.
• Integrate indoor air quality concerns into your purchasing decisions.
• Work with the building manager to ensure use of only necessary and appropriate pest control practices, and nonchemical methods where possible.
• Work with building management and the contractor before you remodel or renovate to identify ways of keeping building occupant exposure to pollutants to a minimum and to ensure that the air distribution system is not disrupted.
• Encourage building management to develop a preventive indoor air quality management program following guidance issued by EPA and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).

About SERVPRO of Morton Grove/East Niles

SERVPRO of Morton Grove/East Niles specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Mold Prevention Tips

6/15/2018 (Permalink)

Concerns regarding indoor exposure to mold has increased as the public has become more aware that exposure to mold can cause a variety of health effects and symptoms.   The EPA has come up with the following tips for mold prevention in your commercial property.

• Fix leaky plumbing and leaks in the building envelope as soon as possible.
• Watch for condensation and wet spots. Fix source(s) of moisture problem(s) as soon as possible.
• Prevent moisture due to condensation by increasing surface temperature or reducing the moisture level in air (humidity). To increase surface temperature, insulate or increase air circulation. To reduce the moisture level in air, repair leaks, increase ventilation (if outside air is cold and dry), or dehumidify (if outdoor air is warm and humid).
• Keep heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) drip pans clean, flowing properly and unobstructed.
• Vent moisture-generating appliances, such as dryers, to the outside where possible.
• Maintain low indoor humidity, below 60% relative humidity (RH), ideally 30-50%, if possible.
• Perform regular building/HVAC inspections and maintenance as scheduled.
• Clean and dry wet or damp spots within 48 hours.
• Don't let foundations stay wet. Provide drainage and slope the ground away from the foundation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today –847-983-4468

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Morton Grove/East Niles specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business.  Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

Steps to Prepare for Any Weather Emergency

5/16/2018 (Permalink)

Weather events impact small businesses every day. In fiscal year 2015, the U.S. Small Business Administration provided 46,000 businesses and individuals with $2.8 billion in disaster loans.  No owner wants to believe it could happen to them, but severe weather is an issue no matter where you are located.

Follow these steps to prepare for any weather emergency:

1. Develop a Plan. How will you manage in the event of a weather disaster? Who is responsible for doing what? What do you need to run your business at a remote site? Stock up on necessary storm supplies, and make sure you can access your data.
2. Understand Your Coverage.  In addition to property and casualty insurance, talk to your broker about adding business interruption insurance to your business owner’s policy.
3. Watch the Weather.  Knowing about a storm as soon as possible gives you and your team ample time to prepare for the worst and get as much done as possible. This additional time could be used to make crucial game-changing decisions.  A NOAA weather radio can help, especially for immediate threats like flash floods and tornadoes.

For help restoring your commercial space after a water loss, call SERVPRO of Morton Grove/East Niles at 847-983-4468. We’ll make it “Like it never even happened.”

Why an Emergency Ready Profile(ERP)?

5/16/2018 (Permalink)

As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. And knowing you are "Ready for whatever happens" speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event your business is affected by a disaster, they don’t necessarily have to be.

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your business.

• A no cost assessment of your facility.
  This means there is no need to allocate funds, giving you a great value at no cost.
   
• A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
  It will only take a little time to complete and will not take you away from current projects. But it will save a lot of time if ever needed.
   
• A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
  This can help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive by having an immediate plan of action.
   
• Establishes SERVPRO of Morton Grove/East Niles as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
  You have a provider that is recognized as an industry leader and close by.
   
• Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
  This saves time so we can begin the work of mitigating the damage which can save you time and money.
   
• Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas and priority contact information.
  Having a quick reference of what to do, how to do it and who to call provides solutions in advance of an emergency so that during the emergency you are "Ready for whatever happens."

Call Us Today to set up your ERP 847-983-4468

Fire Safety for Your Business

5/15/2018 (Permalink)

Five key things a business owner needs to know about fire safety to keep their employees, customers, and property safe from fire damage:

1. Building Fire Exits

If there is a fire, you need to be sure your employees and customers have a way to get out of your building. OSHA requires that all workplace buildings have at least two fire exits that are not located in close proximity to each other that can be used in a fire emergency. This can be a door,  window, or other space large enough for a person to crawl through and access the outdoors.

OSHA also requires that you keep those fire exits clear. The only thing that is allowed to block or    delay the opening of a fire door is an approved alarm system that is part of the fire door’s       design. Also, exit routes from the buildings need to be free of any obstructions. Finally, all exit        routes must be clearly marked with lighted exit signs.

2. Including Portable Fire Extinguishers

All workplace buildings are required by OSHA to have the proper type of fire extinguisher based    on the type of fire hazards present. For instance, a building with a kitchen will need a fire extinguisher for grease fires, while a building with electrical fire hazards will need one for that purpose. Any employee who is in a position to need to use the fire extinguisher should be properly trained on how to use it.  Once installed, fire extinguishers must be kept in good working order. It is not permissible for fire extinguishers to be left unchecked and untested. Make sure that you follow the recommended testing and inspection schedule from the extinguisher’s manufacture, and document those inspections.

3. Planning for Emergency Evacuation

Employers should provide written emergency action plans for employees to ensure everyone knows where exit routes are and what fire emergency procedures are in place. Employers and managers need a plan to account for all employees if the building is evacuated. This plan needs to be located somewhere that employees can review it. If your business has physically impaired employees, the plan must include steps to take to evacuate those employees quickly and safely.  As part of this planning, make sure that you properly train your employees on what to do in the event of a fire. Do not assume that common sense will prevail and your employees will know what to do. Provide training and clear policies to be followed in the event of a fire, and review the training every six months to one year.  As part of your plan, host regular fire drills. These allow employees to practice the evacuation procedures when there is no actual emergency. Make sure everyone is accounted for and all proper lockdown procedures are followed during   drills, so your employees will be prepared for an actual fire event.

4. Planning for Fire Prevention

While having a plan for dealing with emergencies is good, the best plan is to prevent      emergencies altogether. The National Fire Protection Association has a list of fire        prevention regulations and tips that can help your business prevent any dangers that are        common in the line of work you perform. Teach your employees proper fire prevention to ward off an emergency altogether.  Keep in mind that prevention measures will vary depending on    the type of business you run. A welding business is going to need different safety protocols than an office that uses computers for the majority of its work. A kitchen, where open flames are a daily occurrence, is going to have an even more lengthy set of guidelines.

5. Providing a Fire Suppression System

Finally, OSHA requires fire suppression systems in most workplaces, such as automatic sprinkler      systems. When these systems detect a fire, they automatically spray water and sound the alarm    to help suppress and control the fire while alerting the proper authorities. Like fire               extinguishers, these systems need to be inspected and maintained to ensure they will work properly if a fire occurs.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call Us Today –847-983-4468

Restoring Your Morton Grove / East Niles Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event

3/6/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage Events Present Unique Challenges

Flooding and water damage events at Morton Grove and East Niles commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

About SERVPRO of Morton Grove / East Niles

SERVPRO of [Morton Grove / East Niles specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.