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You may have wondered where the phrase “a canary in a coal mine” originates. Wiktionary dictionary defines it as “something whose sensitivity to adverse conditions makes it a useful early indicator of such conditions; something which warns of the coming of great danger or trouble by a deterioration in its health or welfare.”

The devastation caused by Hurricanes Harvey and Irma in the U.S., and the damage inflicted on Puerto Rico by Hurricane Maria, is a grim reminder of the power of these storms and the widespread damage they leave in their wake.

In the wake of hurricanes Harvey and Irma, and the wildfires in Napa and Ventura counties, there is a new appreciation among insurance companies for disaster restoration and contents cleaning companies that utilize ultrasonic cleaning technology. Why? Well, not surprisingly, it boils down to money.

As an organization, we have both moral and legal duties that relate to PPE. As presented in a previous Restoring Success column, the foundation of any safety initiative in your company is culture and attitude towards safety.

Like the boy that cried wolf, some fire professionals have been hearing about the first-ever internationally accredited fire restoration standard for a long time – or what feels like a long time – and a yeah, call me when it’s done reaction is understandable. Yet it seems a larger group, a majority of fire damage contractors, aren’t even aware development is underway.

The initial wave of catastrophe work is done. It sure feels great to get home and back into your “regular” routine, not to mention your own bed! It is great to get back and not have to worry about everything.

The restoration industry provides vital services to our country in many of its times of deepest need and crisis. In return, our economy provides an opportunity for these restorers to capture enormous wealth.

On a February day in Salt Lake City, Utah, representatives from major property restoration and insurance companies came together to discuss the state of the industry. 

NORRP is the National Organization of Restoration and Remediation Professionals. We are an organization founded by restoration professionals (mostly contractors) who are focused on uniting our industry and helping to get all parties on a level playing field.

When tackling removal of coatings from brick, wood, and metal surfaces, one of the most challenging materials to remove is lead-based paint. In addition to being difficult to extract, lead-based materials can be hazardous if inhaled or ingested.