Following a fire event in a building, immediate attention often focuses on structural repairs. However, a critical yet often overlooked concern is the impact on the HVAC system, which can suffer from soot contamination and lingering odours even after a small fire. Engaging a specialist in remediation is crucial to ensure meticulous cleaning and restoration of the HVAC systems affected by fire.
ⓘ Common Sources of Fire
Fires in commercial settings can be caused by a variety of factors. Here are some common sources:
Electrical Faults: Faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, and electrical equipment malfunctions are leading causes of fires in commercial buildings.
Kitchen Exhausts: In restaurants, hotels, and other establishments with kitchens, cooking equipment like stoves, ovens, and fryers are frequent fire hazards, especially when not properly maintained.
Heating Equipment: Space heaters, boilers, and other heating devices can ignite nearby combustibles if they malfunction or are improperly used.
- Smoking Materials: Improper disposal of cigarettes and other smoking materials can lead to fires, especially in areas where flammable materials are present.
- Flammable Liquids: The improper storage or handling of flammable liquids like gasoline, solvents, and cleaning agents can result in fires.
- Arson: Intentional fires set by individuals can cause significant damage in commercial settings.
- Office Equipment: Overheated equipment like photocopiers, computers, and other office machines can ignite nearby paper or other flammable materials.
- Clogged Dryer Vents: In laundries or facilities with industrial dryers, lint buildup in dryer vents can be a serious fire risk.
- Faulty Sprinkler Systems: Although designed to prevent fires, malfunctioning sprinkler systems can sometimes contribute to fire hazards if they fail to activate or if the water supply is compromised.
- Improper Storage of Combustibles: Storing combustible materials too close to heat sources, such as lights or machinery, can lead to fires.
By following a systematic process that includes thorough inspections, specialised cleaning techniques, and advanced odour removal treatments, it becomes possible not only to restore the physical components of the system but also to improve air quality within the building. This demonstrates how expertise and best practices are essential in creating a safe, healthy, and comfortable environment for building occupants in the challenging aftermath of a fire.
Process Overview:
Initial Assessment:
- Inspect the HVAC system for fire damage, including the unit, ductwork, and vents.
- Assess the extent of soot, smoke, and odour contamination.
- Determine necessary cleaning and restoration procedures.
Safety Precautions:
- Ensure the work area is safe, checking for structural integrity and potential hazards.
- Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to guard against contaminants.
Cleaning and Restoration in 6 Steps:
- Ductwork Cleaning
- Access and clean ductwork thoroughly to remove soot, smoke residue, and debris.
- Utilise specialised equipment and cleaning agents designed for fire damage restoration.
- Coil Cleaning
- Clean evaporator and condenser coils to eliminate soot, ash, and debris.
- Restore coil efficiency for optimal performance.
- Duct Sanitisation
- Apply antimicrobial treatments to prevent mould and bacteria growth.
- Air Handler Cleaning
- Clean air handler unit components, including blower wheel, housing, and internal parts.
- Remove soot, ash, and debris to restore functionality.
- Drain Pan Cleaning
- Clean and disinfect the drain pan to prevent clogs and water damage.
- Odour Removal
- Use specialised odour-eliminating products to eradicate smoke and fire odours.
- Consider applying a microbial spray to coat ductwork for enhanced odour control.
Documentation:
- Document the cleaning process with before-and-after photos.
- Provide a detailed report of the work completed.
A reputable HVAC hygiene company adheres to expert cleaning practices, ensuring improved air quality and a cleaner system. This commitment aligns with standards set by the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) [1] and the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) S700 practices [2].
References
[1] NADCA ACR 2021 https://cleanairaust.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Nadca-Standard-ACR-2021.pdf [2] IICRC S700 https://iicrc.org/s700/