How can you protect your facility from water damage?

3 Detect water leaks

The third step to protect your facility from water damage is to detect water leaks as early as possible by installing and monitoring water leak detection systems. These systems can come in the form of water sensors, water meters, water alarms, and water shut-off valves. You should place sensors in strategic locations where water is likely to accumulate, such as basements, bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms. Water meters can measure the flow and consumption of water to detect any abnormal or excessive usage. Water alarms will emit an audible or visual signal when a leak is detected, while shut-off valves will automatically stop the water supply when a leak is detected. By detecting water leaks quickly, you can limit the damage and disruption caused by water.

4 Respond to water damage

The fourth step to protect your facility from water damage is to respond to it promptly and effectively, following a water damage response plan. Such a plan should include a water damage response team, a protocol for steps and actions to be taken in the event of water damage, a restoration contractor, and a contingency plan. The response team should be trained and qualified staff who manage and execute the response. The protocol should involve shutting off the water source, isolating the affected area, notifying the relevant parties, and documenting the incident. The restoration contractor should be a professional service provider who can assist with cleanup, repair, and restoration. Lastly, the contingency plan should backup operations and occupants in case of water damage. By responding quickly to water damage, you can minimize harm and restore your facility to its normal condition.

5 Review and improve

The fifth step to protect your facility from water damage is to review and improve your water damage prevention, detection, and response strategies by conducting regular audits and evaluations. You can use various methods and tools such as feedback and surveys, performance indicators and benchmarks, lessons learned and best practices, as well as improvement plans and actions to assess your water damage management against your goals and expectations. By doing so, you can gain insights and recommendations from your water damage incidents and successes, as well as take steps to implement the necessary changes. Ultimately, this will help ensure that your facility is always prepared and resilient to water damage.

6 Learn more

The sixth and final step to protect your facility from water damage is to stay informed about the latest trends and developments. You can do this by accessing various sources of information and education, such as publications and guides, courses and webinars, and associations and networks. These materials provide comprehensive advice, interactive instruction, and membership benefits on water damage management. By learning more about this topic, you can improve your knowledge and skills, as well as enhance your facility's performance and reputation.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?