Cyclone Debbie Aftermath
Well, Tropical Cyclone Debbie certainly left a path of destruction from the Whitsunday Coast, down through South East Queensland, Northern New South Wales and even as far afield as New Zealand.
Unfortunately, there was a resultant loss of lives in some areas and many more lost their properties and possessions to damaging winds, rain and flood water. Reports are that the financial cost of TC Debbie is expected to be in the billions.
Destructive winds left homes and businesses in ruins, some requiring demolition and others extensive restoration. Flood waters and heavy rain have left thousands of properties with extensive water damage and as the days and weeks go by another potential hazard will be mould growth.
When timbers and other building structures are exposed to submersion or a heavy soaking, they can take a considerable time to dry and in this time mould will grow on the surface of these structures. The effect is compounded when water is trapped in wall and sub-floor cavities, creating an ideal environment for potentially harmful mould to grow.
Where a building has extensive mould growth, there will be high numbers of airborne mould spores which are breathed in and can cause illness for occupants of the property. Symptoms can include coughing, wheezing, colds and flu-like symptoms. People with a compromised immune system and asthma sufferers can be worse affected. This can make clean-up after a flood a potentially hazardous task and risks need to be mitigated to avoid both ill health and ongoing indoor mould growth.
Remediation of flood-affected properties should be carried out by competent, experienced people utilising appropriate tools, techniques and personal protective equipment. Not only will this ensure that remediation occurs safely, but also that all affected timbers are thoroughly dried and mould growth eradicated. Surfaces and indoor air should be tested by a hygienist following remediation to ensure that all mould and spores have been returned to normal levels.
Tony Lane Consulting have the experience and expertise to provide mould assessment before and after remediation and to provide a scope of works for safe and effective remediation of flood damaged homes and businesses.
Call Tony Lane Consulting today for advice and an obligation free quote.