Choose A Professional For Biohazard Cleaning

6/30/2022 (Permalink)

Have you experienced a trauma in your business or home that needs cleaning? Are you unsure of what steps to take? Our team at SERVPRO of Edmonds is well versed in these unfortunate situations. It is not a good idea for those who aren’t properly trained to clean a trauma scene, especially without proper personal protective equipment (PPE). SERVPRO of Edmonds is well-educated on handling biohazard infectious waste such as vomit, feces, and blood. Our team knows not to risk cross-contamination and follows all safety guidelines for appropriate disposal.

SERVPRO of Edmonds takes extreme caution with biohazards, and is trained on various precautions including needlestick prevention, biohazard control, bloodborne pathogens, and disposal, as well as universal OSHA precautions.

Our professionals clean, disinfect, and deodorize the commercial (or residential) area following an accident. We also dispose of bio-hazardous waste in accordance with health and OSHA regulations as well as federal, state and/or local regulations.

Our team understands that commercial biohazard, trauma, and crime scene cleanup is not an easy task and requires specialized equipment and appropriate certifications. Our Biohazard Project Managers assesses, decontaminates, and monitors medical waste in a wide variety of different situations, from industrial accidents to infectious disease, viral, and microbial site decontamination.

Biohazard cleaning can be an emotional situation. When in doubt leave it to the professionals. If you have additional questions about biohazard cleaning call SERVPRO of Edmonds at 425-775-5723 to speak with an experienced professional.

First Aid and CPR Training In the Workplace

6/30/2022 (Permalink)

The importance of First Aid and CPR Training in the workplace could save a life, make sure your employees know this essential function! 

As emergency responders SERVPRO of Edmonds experiences daily the importance of a rapid and efficient response. Life can change in a matter of minutes which is why we know the best way to expect the unexpected is to be prepared. What better way to celebrate preparedness than to certify our employees in CPR and First Aid training?

We teamed up with one of our favorite associations; PHCCWA (Plumbing Heating and Cooling Contractors of Washington) to host a CRP and First Aid class at our facility in Lynnwood. Many of our association members and our team members attended to renew their certifications.

We think CRP and First Aid training is important in the work place for many reasons;

• Having trained employees can make a substantial difference in your ability to maintain a safe work environment. They will be able to respond more quickly and effectively when medical emergencies occur.
• This training and knowledge provides a sense of security and promotes a more confident work environment.
• As staff becomes more prepared and responsive – they also become more aware of their surroundings and more likely to spot potential hazards. This inspires a ‘safety culture’.
• 25% of all emergency room visits can be avoided with basic first aid and CPR certification.
• Safety precautions and preparedness applies to ANY industry of ANY size.

There are many local resources that can help you get CPR and First Aid Certified such as The Red Cross or local Fire Stations. Call SERVPRO of Edmonds and speak to one of our Marketing Specialists to learn more about how you can be personally prepared; 425-775-5723.

SERVPRO of Edmonds Community Summer Happenings

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

Friends and fans of SERVPRO of Edmonds; we just updated our address to the lovely waterworks building (very fitting) in the heart of downtown; 123 2nd Ave South Ste 230-48 Edmonds, WA 98020. 

Checkout our google page here and leave us a review! Feedback is always appreciated. 

SERVPRO of Edmonds is a proud member of the Edmonds Chamber celebrating over 10 years of membership in this wonderful community supported organization. Summer in Edmonds is busy and bustling. Every year we look forward to participation in the 4th of July Parade with great excitement. This event is a great time to celebrate and support our country and community. The Edmonds chamber is searching for volunteers so sign up with your friends, family, coworkers and neighbors! 

On a side note our long-time Chamber President Greg Urban is leaving after 8 years of service. We will miss him dearly and are so grateful for all the hard work he has put in especially through the past two years of tough transitions due to Covid regulations. Greg did a wonderful job and will have some big shoes to fill. 

We are thrilled to be meeting in person again and look forward to welcoming a new candidate for Chamber President who will grow and support our small businesses. We look forward to many more years of networking, education and supporting our fellow chamber members! 

June Is Youth Employment Safety Month

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Edmonds we are all about safety! Responding to disasters is our line of work and has made us hyper-aware of risks that can happen when least expected. Recently the Washington State department of L & I  (labor and industries) presented to our local Edmonds Chamber and shared some great tips about staying safe and following regulations in the workplace. 

L & I shared that June is “Youth Employment Safety Month.” With the school year wrapping up, lots of teens will be starting summer jobs in the coming weeks.
Employers in Washington must meet certain criteria before hiring anyone under 18. Once hired, there are rules for breaks, wages, and job duties specific to youth.

Over the years we have hosted several teen paid internships to gain professional and real life experience here in the safety of our office. Did you know youth under 18 years old are prohibited from performing the following work in the construction industry?:

• Working on or around a roof
• Wrecking, demolition, trenching, or excavating
• Operating or riding cargo elevators, manlifts, hoists, and cranes (automatic passenger elevators are okay)
• Flagging or helping on public roadway
• Operating boilers or working in engine rooms
• Operating power-driven woodworking machines
• Operating metal-forming, punching, and shearing machines
• Operating powered circular and band saws
• Handling or using explosives
• Mining

SERVPRO of Edmonds Sponsors Breakfast at WSCAI's 2022 Made For Manager's Day

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Edmonds is excited to sponsor breakfast at the 2022 WSCAI (Washington State Community Association Institute) Made For Managers Day. This is a wonderful educational event for Condominium Managers consisting of several forums and workshops about news and hot topics in their industry. Several members will present and share their experiences (do-s and don't-s). We are proud to be a supporter of this event for several years which always takes place at the Lynnwood Convention Center. 

Some of the various topics include: 

• Managing Diverse Communities 
• Short Term Rentals 
• Managing piping systems 
• Bank Loans 
• Inflation affecting budgeting 
• insurance and lawsuits case study 
• Difficult projects 

Come visit with the vendors, win prizes and support this wonderful organization of property manager professionals on their journey to being the best in the industry! 

Emergency Board-Up and Cleaning Services

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

Emergency Board-ups are necessary and vital after unexpected accidents. These are not situations that happen everyday but when they do it is important to be prepared and know who to call. The experts at SERVPRO of Edmonds can provide emergency board up and cleaning services related to drywall damage, glass cleaning, debris cleaning and furniture moving or salvage and non-salvage items.

Examples of situations that require board-ups:

• After hours break-ins and looting. Was a door or window broken or damaged? Is there a mess related to the break-in? Call SERVPRO of Edmonds to secure the building 24/7.
• Vehicles colliding with buildings through walls or windows. This is a common problem at retail locations with high traffic levels. Unfortunately drivers aren’t always paying attention and building can suffer severe damage when mistakes are made.
• Earthquakes cause structural damage, broken windows and compromised entry and exits. Board-ups can secure the building until damage can be assessed.
• Fires that compromise structural integrity, such as windows, doors, walls or even roof entry.

Don’t leave your home or building vulnerable by avoiding a board-up. Call SERVPRO of Edmonds to handle the board up and clean-up at 425-775-5723.

What Does It Take to Work in the Water Damage Restoration Field?

5/21/2021 (Permalink)

Water Damage Restoration companies vary from large corporate companies (such as SERVPRO) to small mom and pop shops. The industry is growing and developing new technology every day. In 2019 SERVPRO was valued at $1 billion dollars making it one of the largest restoration companies in the world. Let’s examine what it takes to work in this fast-paced, complex industry!  

The Restoration Industry as whole is unique; it requires technical skills, critical thinking, and interpersonal skills to interface with a variety of customers, clients, and subcontractors. Communicating clearly and effectively with all parties involved is the key to success. Teamwork in a fast-paced environment is key to success. Emergencies happen in the middle of the night, on holidays or at inopportune times so being flexible and efficient is important. Having compassion and maintaining professionalism will put customers at ease. Most customers find themselves in a very stressful, upsetting situation. It is important for the Restoration Professional to be the “hero” customers need for making it through a difficult time.

Familiarity with restoration technologies is another important factor. Aside from the basic hand tools and power tools, restoration professionals also operate specialized equipment. These include thermal imaging, mold sensors, water pumps, industrial-quality fans, high-powered dehumidifiers, and air movers. Many restoration companies use complex software systems for sketching floor plans, validating equipment placement and for inventorying during packing and moving. Learning these systems will help you be more successful on the jobsite.

At SERVPRO of Edmonds we take pride in training and developing quality personnel who go above and beyond for our customers and have a vast array of industry knowledge. Our programs are well structured through our corporate office who provide an array of interactive training videos, knowledge testing and on the job training experience.

If you think you have what it takes to be a part of the SERVPRO of Edmonds team give us a call at 425-775-5723. We would love to meet with you and discuss opportunities with our team!

Emergency Supply Checklist For Your Vehicle

5/21/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Edmonds is passionate about emergency preparedness and personal safety. You may hear many disaster preparedness warnings about what emergency supplies to keep in your home, but what about your vehicle? Some things to consider:

• How much time do you spend in your vehicle?
• Do you take extra supplies for long trips?
• What would you do in the event of poor weather, car trouble or a flat tire that may cause you to become stranded?

The National Safety Council recommends an array of items to keep in your vehicle and much of this depends on your distance and landscape traveled. Every vehicle should have an emergency supply kit located in the trunk. Kits should be checked every six months, and expired items should be replaced to keep it up to date. Vehicle emergency supply kits should include:

• A properly inflated spare tire, wheel wrench and tripod jack
• Jumper cables
• Tool kit and/or a multipurpose utility tool
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Reflective triangles and brightly colored cloth to make your vehicle more visible
• Compass
• First aid kit with gauze, tape, bandages, antibiotic ointment, aspirin, a blanket, nonlatex gloves, scissors, hydrocortisone, thermometer, tweezers and instant cold compress
• Nonperishable, high-energy foods, such as unsalted nuts, dried fruits and hard candy
• Drinking water
• Reflective vest in case you need to walk to get help
• Car charger for your cell phone
• Fire extinguisher
• Duct tape
• Rain poncho
• Additional items for cold weather include a snow brush, shovel, windshield washer fluid, warm clothing, cat litter for traction and blankets

It's also a good idea to keep family and emergency phone numbers, including your auto insurance provider and a towing company, in your phone and even on paper in case you lose phone battery/power. Equip your vehicles and stay safe- always expect the unexpected!

Are you Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned?

5/7/2021 (Permalink)

CSC Table Topper Sign

As some Edmonds, WA businesses continue to face positive COVID cases SERVPRO of Edmonds is close by and ready to help assist with sanitation. SERVPRO has developed a program called CSC: Certified: SERVPRO® Cleaned, in which professionally trained SERVPRO franchisees perform requested cleaning, sanitizing and disinfection services to commercial properties. Certified: SERVPRO® Cleaned program ranges from standard to enhanced services and are intended to limit the survival and spread of viral pathogens. Businesses have the opportunity to display a CSC certification sticker in their window or a restaurant/office table topper showing customers that their building has been cleaned to the highest industry standard. This creates a feeling of relief and peace of mind to customers, while showing your dedication to cleanliness.

Standard Services Include disinfecting these common touchpoints:

• Door knobs, pulls, and locks, push doors
• Stair handrails, elevator car and controls
• Light switches, switch covers, and accessible outlet covers
• Countertops, tabletops, vanity tops, and desktops
• Chair arms, backs, and height/swivel controls.
• Faucets, sinks, soap dispenser, towel dispenser, dryer, water fountains, napkin dispenser
• Cabinet door and drawer exterior, door and drawer pulls/knobs
• Toilets, urinals, bathroom stalls around locks and handrails, handrails, bathroom fixtures (e.g., toilet paper dispenser and paper towel dispenser), diaper changing stations, fitting room stalls around locks and handrails
• Telephones, computer equipment, shared office equipment, sales registers
• Exterior of shelves, racking, displays, bookcases, file cabinets

There are additional options to add ‘Enhanced services’ which include the disinfection of less frequent touch-points specified by the business owner. The COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean. We are offering this service because SERVPRO professionals know that getting back to business relies on getting customers back through doors. We are putting our Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned logo throughout the community to help businesses communicate a commitment to a higher standard of clean for customers and employees. If you have questions about our CSC program call SERVPRO of Edmonds at 425-775-5723.

Mold Remediation Basics

4/9/2021 (Permalink)

Understanding How Mold Is Removed

Have you found mold in your home or are you simply worried about potential mold? If so, you should learn about the process of mold remediation. Mold cleanup is not a simple procedure, but it is reliable so you do not have to worry about dangerous black mold lingering afterward. Getting a trustworthy restoration company in Edmonds, WA is the first step in the restoration process.

The Process of Removing Mold

Fixing the Moisture Problem – First and foremost, whatever the cause of the mold is needs to be fixed. Only moisture causes mold to grow, so the source needs to be identified before restoration can take place. This may mean fixing a broken pipe or installing a dehumidifier. Otherwise, the mold will just grow back.

Containment – While black mold is the only common type of mold that may cause health effects, containment will keep the mold from spreading to other parts of your home.

Removing Materials – All materials that are affected by the mold must be removed. This includes parts of your home, such as drywall, and items in the affected area, such as furniture. These items will be discarded or cleaned depending on how damaged they are.

Cleaning – As the primary step of mold cleanup, the cleaning process is vital to creating a safe environment. Not only will specialists clean your home of mold, but disinfect the affected surfaces as well.

Drying – After all materials have been cleaned and disinfected, it is important that they are properly dried to prevent mold from growing back.

Restoration – All the black mold is gone and it is safe to live in your home again. Once mold remediation is complete, the restoration process can begin. This stage varies depending on the severity of the mold growth and potential water damage. Damaged or unappealing walls can be replaced, new floor can be laid, and new paint or wallpaper can be put in. Visit http://www.SERVPROedmonds.com for more information on mold.

SERVPRO of Edmonds Appreciates Employees

3/25/2021 (Permalink)

Celebrating Birthdays with our team!

Here at SERVPRO of Edmonds we are serious about providing an inclusive family-oriented work environment where everyone feels appreciated and part of the team. We foster a positive company culture and show employees special attention by:

• Celebrating Employee Birthdays– Each employee is celebrated with a cake of their choice and a hand signed card from all team members. The ‘Happy Birthday” song is always in order. It is important to give recognition on their special day!
• Team Meetings Recognizing Accomplishments- When employees have earned a certification, received customer praise, or gone above and beyond for the team they are given special recognition with announcements and applauds from all. We like to show recognition especially when well-deserved. Frequent prize incentives are included!
• Including Families in Holiday Celebrations- Around the Holidays we feel it is important to include our employees and their families as well in mutual celebration. Significant others and children are invited and given gifts of appreciation, at SERVPRO the whole family matters!
• Volunteering with our Community- We take turns donating to different nonprofits and charities in our communities that are meaningful to us. Employees participate by donating food, clothing, toys and their time during drives and donation drop-offs. We feel it is important to foster a sensing of caring and community support.
• Team Book Club-Quarterly we share and discuss a team book. The books we choose are motivational and learning focused. We share thoughts and feedback from our reading on how to grow personally and professionally.

SERVPRO of Edmonds is always working to foster an environment for positivity, growth, and inspiration. We believe in promoting from within and helping our employees reach their full potential by showing them the respect and attention they deserve. It is our belief that to serve our customers best we need a strong, healthy, and happy team. Don’t forget, we are always here 24/7 to help you with all of your emergency needs!

Edmonds Chamber 4th of July Parade Cancelled Due to COVID-19 Pandemic

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

For 113 years the Downtown Edmonds Parade on The 4^th of July has been a staple in the community for fun family memories and a time to come together in celebration. Unfortunately, the Edmonds Chamber announced that the festivities known as “An Edmonds Kind of Fourth” has been cancelled for the first time in 75 years. This is due to safety concerns brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. State and local laws are requiring social distancing and reduced gathering sizes in an effort to limit contact and prevent COVID-19 spread. Many local residents are saddened to be missing the event, including our team at SERVPRO of Edmonds who has participated in the parade with a float for the past several years. SERVPRO employees have fond memories of 2019 when we were awarded ‘most creative’ float by the Edmonds Chamber with our “Underwater’ theme (very fitting for our industry).

It is with a heavy heart that we miss out on parade participation this year, though we understand it is absolutely necessary to limit the spread of COVID-19 and keep the community safe. We miss seeing our community friends, neighbors and partners and we wish everyone a healthy and safe Fourth of July holiday. Remember to practice firework and barbecue safety. Call SERVPRO of Edmonds at 425-775-5723 if you have any fire or water issues as we will be open on the holiday, 24/7 as usual!

SERVPRO of Edmonds Disinfects Commercial Buildings & Residences During Viral Outbreak

3/24/2020 (Permalink)

Our Team Preparing for a Decontamination.

SERVPRO of Edmonds professionals are here to help the local community and are trained in adhering to the highest cleaning and sanitation standards. If you have a home, office, restaurant or retail store that has a confirmed case of coronavirus we are Here to Help®.

SERVPRO is being called on by numerous businesses and community leaders to perform the necessary bioremediation services to clean, disinfect and sanitize their properties. All our cleanup practices are in accordance with the guidelines provided by the CDC and local authorities. If you are interested in inquiring about our services we are here to help – 24 hours a day, seven days a week, while life gets back to normal in the communities we all call home.

The CDC recommends usage of a labeled hospital-grade disinfectant with claims against similar pathogens to the coronavirus. Multiple products in the SERVPRO product line meet this standard and carry the EPA-registered emerging pathogens claims.

Our SERVPRO of Edmonds team can respond quickly and effectively to help minimize interruption. We are uniquely prepared during this unprecedented time to clean and disinfect your home or business according to the protocols set forth by the CDC. We have years of experience in dealing with biological contaminants, and we will go beyond the scope of work that a regular janitorial staff would perform. The CDC encourages cleaning of high-touch surfaces such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, light switches, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and tables at a minimum. These same surfaces are mentioned in the CDC’s guidance for commercial spaces.

SERVPRO of Edmonds continues to help our communities and we encourage you to stay positive, safe and healthy during this difficult time. We are working to support local business and organizations close to our hearts. Please call us if you need assistance or if you have questions about decontamination at 425-775-5723.