At What Point During Restoration Can Employees Come Back to Work?

9/1/2022 (Permalink)

When Can Employees Return to Work After a Restoration?

Your business has survived a flood in White House, MO and now you’re ready to get back to work. However, the restoration crew is still on-site, combating black water, bacteria, and structural dangers. So when is it safe to bring your employees back? To help you make that determination, here are the three stages of the restoration process and what you need to know:

1. The Removal Stage

Floodwaters can leave behind standing water that quickly creates mold and bacteria. If this is combined with sewer backup, it is known as “black water.” This is generally the top priority for a restoration company. While the professionals are working to remove it and complete this part of the cleanup, no one is safe to come back to work in the building.

2. The Demolition and Disinfection Phase

One of the things a flood cleanup crew will do for your business is work with you to figure out what can be saved and what needs to be demolished. Certain porous items such as carpeting and drywall will need to be disinfected and in many cases removed, as they contain harmful bacteria. During this phase, it is also not safe for employees to return to the building.

3. The Rebuilding Stage

After floodwater has been removed and the business’s walls and carpeting have been demolished or disinfected, it is usually safe for employees to come back to work, even while some rebuilding is still taking place. Installing air filtration devices is a smart precaution to clean the air. It will also set the minds of staff at ease while the restoration company wraps up the job.

Black water and other safety concerns make it necessary to be cautious about allowing employees back into a business after a flood. By knowing what step of the cleanup process the restoration crew is performing, you can make a safe determination and get your company back on track quickly.