No one ever anticipates a need for fire recovery services. The truth is, however, unanticipated blazes happen daily on industrial sites the world over. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) notes that, within the United States alone, an average 37,910 fires take place at manufacturing and industrial operations each year. Of course, a bit of advance planning — and knowing next steps to take, should the unthinkable occur — can make a tremendous difference. Here, the FUSED Industrial team has pulled together some helpful advice every industrial operation should keep in mind.
Act Quickly — But Thoughtfully — Following a Fire
People tend to react in two different ways when confronted with the shock of an explosion or plant fire. Some leap into action immediately, assessing damage, scoping out potential companies that can help and booking work at the speed of light. Others find themselves in a state of shock, doing unrelenting research into the issue, agonizing over assistance and getting bogged down by analysis paralysis. The healthiest approach tends to be a mixture of both. While you do want to get the ball rolling on assessment, demolition and repair work as quickly as possible, it’s important to ensure you’re working with a reputable company that can right your situation. We recommend researching long before you ever require their services. By vetting those available to you and keeping their information handy, you’ll be able to take a confident step forward, should a blaze take place.
Get Multiple Experts’ Opinions Before Digging in on Repairs
Even after you select the company you’re ready to trust with your repair or restoration work, you’ll want to have other experts on site to aid in the assessment process. Most often, a plant’s engineering, leadership and/or maintenance teams become part of the process. This step serves two functions. Not only does it introduce other sets of eyes to the job site — and decrease the likelihood that needed repair or restoration work will go unnoticed — but it serves as a safeguard for your company, too. The measure helps you avoid paying for work that might actually be unnecessary — or work that isn’t carried out in the best way for your individual operations.
Communicate, Communicate, Communicate
Communication is crucial in every aspect of industrial work — especially during emergency situations. Keep crew members clued in every step of the way, from the first moments you learn of the blaze, until you’re ready to get back in business. Doing so not only eases minds, but can help ensure everyone is on the same page and ready to return to work once they have the green light to do so. Communicate with those you’ve hired to do the repair work, too. What is your timeline? What about your budget? Are there special considerations they should know about? Ask them to report back, too, if unexpected delays enter the mix. Depending on your company size and situation, it can also be important to communicate with local media outlets and first responders. A quick press release or similar media communication can decrease the likelihood of negative speculation and press, and can work wonders for your company reputation moving forward.
There are countless things to consider when faced with a disaster scenario, and it’s important to have support from a company that can help see you safely through. At FUSED Industries, our Industrial division is well-versed in just that. We’re here to help at every stage, from assessment and removal of damaged assets, to reconstruction and reinstallation services, and commissioning support, as well. Please feel free to contact us for more information.