What are the Risks of Lead?

7/28/2022 (Permalink)

Lead is a scary word for a lot of people, much like Mold has become. Like Mold, Lead is everywhere. Can it harm us? If so, how do we keep ourselves free from harm?

What Is Lead?

According to EPA, Lead is a naturally occurring element. While it has some beneficial uses, it can be toxic to humans and animals causing health effects.

How It's Used:

Lead can be found in almost all parts of our environments, including in Air, Soil, & Water. Lead can also be found in a variety of products found in and around our homes or businesses, most notably in Paint.

Lead in paint has many benefits. It drys faster, shines better, blocks sound & radiation, and prevents the growth of mildew. Along with paint, ceramics, plumbing materials, solders, gasoline, batteries, ammunition, cosmetics, and toys have been found to contain lead.

When Lead Becomes Toxic:

Lead enters the body through inhalation or consumption, those are the only ways. Lead becomes toxic when disrupted.

Ex. Lead paint in a home is not harmful unless the paint is peeling or chipping. If the paint is disrupted, lead dust can spread in the air and into your lungs. Children may be tempted to eat paint chips or rub their hands on the walls where disrupted lead paint is present. This presents health effects to the child.

Adults and Children absorb lead, children absorb it quicker.

Identify Effects of Lead:

Lead attacks almost every part of your body. Lead effects can be unnoticeable too. A BLL (Blood Lead Level) test will give an approximation of how much lead is in your blood. 

Lead in Your Business:

Yes, lead is probably in your business now, whether in the form of paint or products. That doesn't necessarily make it harmful.

Visit the EPA & CPSC websites for more information on Lead and certain items that can be possibly harmful to you. 

Call SERVPRO of Tustin for Lead Remediation at your home or business. SERVPRO of Tustin is trained and certified to safely handle Lead and properly dispose of it. (714) 480-1340

Flooding Do's & Don'ts

6/9/2022 (Permalink)

Have Water or Flood Damage? Call Us Today – (714) 480-1340

During water damage event or flooding, many thoughts may begin to race through your head. What is of utmost concern is the safety of you and your household: 

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT To Do After Flooding

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don't use television or other household appliances.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

 Reminders:

1. Do not panic, take a breath.
2. Keep safety always at the forefront of your mind (stop the water source, shut all electricity off, etc.)
3. Call SERVPRO® in order to get things back to normal conditions.

When a disaster strikes, SERVPRO® is here to help. Call SERVPRO® of Tustin for your disaster recovery needs. From Fire and  Water Damage to sanitization, we are there to assist you. Call us at: (714) 480-1340

Can I Stay at my Home After a Fire?

6/9/2022 (Permalink)

After enduring a small-medium fire in your home, it may be tempting to stay. After all, the fire may have been small and confined to a certain area of the house. 

Prioritize your safety! 

In order to help restore your home, technicians may use...

• Strong Deodorizers
• Fogging Techniques
• Turn off your Power for safety purposes

These instances usually require the property to be vacant for a period of time. Our goal is to quickly and safely restore your home, so you have as little interruption as possible.

Firefighters Use Water to Extinguish a Fire

Excess moisture on top of fire & smoke damage can make the restoration more challenging. SERVPRO® technicians are trained and qualified to safely remove water and fire damage to prevent further damage to your property.

Effects of Smoke Damage

Smoke & soot from a fire release dangerous carcinogens that can harm one's health without even knowing it. This can pose a further threat to one's health while remaining at your home after a fire.

Each situation is different, but clearly there are benefits to vacating your home for a time and letting professionals take the lead in restoring your home.

When a disaster strikes, SERVPRO® is here to help. Call SERVPRO® of Tustin for your disaster recovery needs. From Fire and  Water Damage to sanitization, we are there to assist you. Call us at: (714) 480-1340

9 Reasons NOT to Use Bleach to Kill Mold

6/8/2022 (Permalink)

The use of Bleach is a well-known all-purpose cleaning agent that has been widely distributed by DIY blogs and even notable websites such as Huffington Post. This is especially true when it comes to cleaning Mold. 

The truth of the matter is that using chlorine bleach may cause more damage than good.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) as well as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), recommend NOT using bleach to kill mold. 

Here are 9 Reasons NOT to Use Bleach to Kill Mold:

1. Bleach introduces excess moisture on porous surfaces. A Bleach cleaning solution can contain up to 90% water. Chlorine quickly evaporates leaving the water that soaks into porous surfaces like wood. This encourages mold growth.

2. Bleach will not kill the roots or hyphae. On a porous surface, bleach will wipe away the visible mold, but will not penetrate the many roots caused by the mold.

3. The EPA and OSHA specifically advise against using bleach for mold remediation. High-level organizations focused on public health & safety set the standard for not using bleach as a mold cleaning agent.

4. Bleach is harmful and corrosive. Bleach will weaken wood and metal, breaking down the fibers and corroding metal. 

5. Bleach is an irritant. Bleach releases chlorine gas, causing damage to skin, eyes, lungs, and even clothing.

6. When mixed, bleach can be deadly. Mixing bleach with other cleaners or acids can release deadly gases that can kill if inhaled. 

7. Inactivation by Organic Matter. Bleach quickly loses its strength after being exposed to heat or light. Because of that, it doesn't prevent future microbial growth.

8. Most bleach products are not on the EPA Approved List of antimicrobial agents. This list features cleaning agents approved for commercial or residential use.

9. Approved antimicrobial alternatives are readily available. These agents are specifically designed to kill mold and prevent microbial growth. They tend to be cost-effective, safe, and easy to use.

Mold is not a DIY job. If you suspect mold at your Southern California commercial or residential property, SERVPRO® of Tustin works to remediate mold from the source. Call us, (714) 480-1340

SERVPRO® of Tustin are your Mold Professionals. Call us to schedule an appointment, (714) 480-1340

Does Your Business Have an ERP?

6/8/2022 (Permalink)

According to FEMA, around 40% of businesses fail to reopen after a disaster. To make things worse, the United States Small Business Administration found that over 90% of businesses close within 2 years of a disaster. These statistics may be alarming, but you can lessen the impact of a disaster if you make preparations in advance. One of the easiest ways to prepare is by creating an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP).

All of Your Business’s Vital Information

An Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) is a document comprised of all of your business's vital information.

It includes...

• Emergency Contact Information
• Utility Shut-off Locations
• Other information you or your employees might need in an emergency situation.

Your local SERVPRO franchise will create an ERP for your business—free of charge! A representative will come in and ask a few questions, then get the necessary information regarding shut-offs and emergency exit points. The whole process should take no more than a few minutes of your time!

After your representative compiles the documents, they will present both a physical and a digital copy of the ERP. And in some cases, they will give a copy to your local fire department to have for their own records.

Recovering Your Business

After a disaster, your priority should be to get your business back to its normal operations. Fortunately, an ERP allows you the opportunity to quickly respond and take crucial actions. So if you want to get an ERP for your business in the LA or OC area, call SERVPRO® of Tustin today at (714) 480-1340!

Benefits of Restoration Technology

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

How can technology benefit your company?

Digital tools are constantly advancing and changing how restoration companies service their clients. How can technology benefit your company?

At SERVPRO®, we're always finding ways to streamline innovation that benefits us and our clients. Here are a couple of ways SERVPRO® utilizes technology on losses.

Matterport 3D Technology

The Matterport 3D scanning system allows us to capture space and create a virtual 3D model.

• Virtual Walkthroughs - The Matterport system allows us to share your space with insurance adjusters and property managers, allowing them to walk the job virtually as if they were there in person.
• Insurance Claims - Having a 3D scan of your space could be useful during an insurance claim. It could show items & possessions that would need to be noted. If you already have a claim, it would be a useful tool to capture the loss.
• Measurement Tool - During a loss, we want to provide the most accurate information. The Matterport system uses infrared sensors to capture data. This data can be measured within the system to provide the most accurate sketch & estimate.

DryMax Dehumidifier 

A dehumidifier is an essential part of a loss. These machines help control humidity and moisture in the air.

• Compact & Portable - The new DryMax Dehumidifier is half the size of other popular dehumidifiers. This allows for easier placement and more machines on trucks.
• Wireless Capability - Wireless technology allows the user to connect to the dehumidifier via iPad. The user can then track temperatures and moisture, without having to be onsite. This allows for easier management of jobs.

What Do These Advancements Mean for Your Business? 

It means faster service, quick data access, & an overall more streamlined experience. If you call SERVPRO® you know you'll be contacting a team focused on customer service and innovation.

When a disaster strikes, SERVPRO® is here to help. Call SERVPRO® of Tustin for your disaster recovery needs. From Fire and  Water Damage to sanitization, we are there to assist you. Call us at: (714) 480-1340

How to Clean the Air Post Fire

5/13/2022 (Permalink)

If you've ever been into a recently burned property, you're aware of the sting in your nose. It's unpleasant & hazardous. The odor is sulfur mixed with smoke. It's called Acrid. This needs to be removed from the property before the residents can reoccupy it. What’s the best way to get rid of it?

Smoke contains the residue of all the burned materials and it can be Caustic. Special equipment is used to completely clean the air.

• Ozone Machines
• Air Scrubbers

Ozone Machines destroy the Molecules, Bacteria, and Spores that cause unpleasant smells. Air Scrubbers clean the air by repeatedly moving it through HEPA filters which help reduce the smell.

What else is involved?

Other necessary steps involve: (1) Clean all the hard surfaces (2) Wash or treat clothes, drapes, carpets, and upholstery.

A fire doesn’t always destroy a building, smoke however, can ruin everything it contacts. Make sure you do all that’s needed to “clear the air.”

SERVPRO® of Tustin is here to help with all your fire damage needs. We are open 24/7, 365 days a year to help you get back to normal. Call us at (714) 480-1340

The Water Damage Process

5/3/2022 (Permalink)

Water Restoration Process

Water damage to your property can be a stressful & confusing event. SERVPRO® is here for the clean-up. The sooner you begin cleanup, the less likely you are to have secondary problems, such as mold growth. The following steps will guide you through the restoration process. 

Addressing the Water Source

Flooding may be due to broken pipes, a leaky roof, or other causes. The flow of water must be stopped before beginning clean-up. Although a temporary solution may allow you to get started on the restoration process, it is important to fully repair the problem to prevent future flooding. 

Remove Standing Water

To remove standing water SERVPRO® uses specialized water extractors. These extractors remove large amounts of water without damaging your carpet or flooring at your property.

The Dry Out

To completely dry the areas, Air Movers and Dehumidifiers are used to control airflow and climate. A drying system is then implemented to ensure your property dries as quickly and effectively as possible.

Sanitize Areas

Cleaning and sanitation efforts take place after the area is dried out. Anti-bacterial cleaners are used to sanitize and clean the area.

SERVPRO of Tustin is here to help with all your water damage needs. We are open 24/7 365 days a year to help you get back to normal. Call us at (714) 480-1340

Wildfire Cleanup | Phase I & II

5/2/2022 (Permalink)

Our highly skilled and trained crew will provide visual assessments and determine the best solution for your property clean-up.

Phase I: Inspection

Assisting in Wildfire Clean-up all starts with the inspection. If your property was near a wildfire, the possibility of Smoke Damage is high. Smoke particles can sometimes be clearly visible, other times a more thorough inspection must take place. We look for where smoke settles... baseboards, windowsills, shelves, mantels, door frames, and other locations. 

Extensive damage requires establishing what hazardous materials are present. All hazardous materials must be addressed and removed before Ash and Debris can be removed. 

Phase II: Cleaning & Removal

Smoke Damaged is addressed in three parts, 1) HEPA vacuum, 2) the wipe down, and 3) odor removal. 

A HEPA vacuum is used to collect loose particles. After all the surfaces are vacuumed, surfaces are wiped with a microfiber cloth. With the use of Microfiber Technology, affected surfaces are wiped down and cleaned. Microfiber Cleaning Cloths can collect particles at a .3 micron level, while smoke particles are commonly 1 micron in size. After the wipe down, the surfaces will be HEPA vacuumed once more to collect fallen particles. O-zone Machines & Hydroxyl Generators are specialty equipment that cleans the air, breaking down odor molecules.

For extensive wildfire clean-ups, after hazardous materials are removed, Ash and Debris can be discarded and the remaining structure can be cleaned. If reconstruction services are required, our Director of Construction is available to address your reconstruction needs.

SERVPRO® of Tustin is Your Wildfire Clean-up Team!

You don't need to handle Wildfire clean-up on your own. For the safety of everyone around, professionals should be tasked to handle and dispose of hazardous materials and debris. SERVPRO® of Tustin specializes in clean-up services, including Fire Clean-up.

Our highly skilled and trained crew will provide visual assessments and determine the best solution for your property clean-up.

Wild Fire season is coming! Call SERVPRO® of Tustin to schedule an inspection of your property! (714) 480-1340

Maintain Your Fire Extinguishers

5/2/2022 (Permalink)

Fire extinguishers must be in working order to perform properly. OSHA regulations stipulate that commercial businesses must inspect their portable fire extinguishers monthly. This practice would also be beneficial for Homeowners who possess a fire extinguisher. Know what to check and how to make sure your extinguishers are working properly.

Fire Extinguisher Inspection

Location

All fire extinguishers should be easy to locate and easy to see. If it cannot be easily seen or reached, the extinguisher should be relocated so that it can be more easily accessed. 

Pressure Gauge 

The pressure gauge should be pointing to the green area, known as the operating zone. This zone means the extinguisher is ready for use. If the needle is to the left or the right of the operating zone, the extinguisher has lost pressure and needs to be recharged or is under too much pressure and is at risk of a leak or a cylinder failure. Call a fire professional right away if the pressure gauge is outside of the operating zone.

Inspection Tag

The inspection tag identifies when the last annual inspection took place and when the next one is due. If there is no inspection tag the extinguisher should be inspected and a new one will be attached.

Damage

Lastly, the extinguisher needs to be checked thoroughly for damage or deterioration. Check the label and serial number to make sure it can still be read. Check for dents and punctures, as well as rust and corrosion. The hose should still be securely fastened to the extinguisher and free of cracks or other damage. Also, the locking pin should be present and fastened correctly and securely. The extinguisher must also have a tamper seal. This will indicate if anyone has attempted to use or discharge the unit.  If any extinguishers are damaged or tampered with, have them professionally inspected immediately.

Record Your Findings

Write your name or initials, signature, and date of inspection to confirm that it has been done. After you’ve signed off, write a report that describes any issues and the steps required to remedy them. 

Following these guidelines will ensure your extinguishers will be ready for use in case of fire.

When a disaster strikes, SERVPRO® is here to help. Call SERVPRO® of Tustin for your disaster recovery needs. From Fire and Water damage to sanitization, we are there to assist you. Call us at: (714) 480-1340