Very few things can disrupt a work day faster than a flooded office bathroom. It’s inconvenient and sanitary and stressful, but it’s also something that can be managed quickly if you know what steps to take. Whether the cause is a burst pipe or blocked toilet or a leaky sink, acting fast can prevent further damage and keep your workplace safe. If you ever face this messy situation, here’s a simple guide on what to do.
- Stay calm and assess. The very first thing to do is stay calm. A flooded bathroom might look bad, but panicking can make it harder to respond effectively. Take a quick look to identify where the water is coming from. Is it a toilet overflow, a burst pipe, or a drain backup? If the water is still flowing, locate the source and see if you can safely turn it off. Most toilets and sinks have a small valve near the base that controls water flow. Turning it off can stop the flooding from getting worse. If the problem isn’t obvious or you can’t reach the valve safely, move on to containing the water as best you can.
- Keep people away from the area. Once you’ve identified the problem and before you call a plumber, the next priority is safety. Wet floors are slippery, and depending on the water source, the area could be contaminated. Close the bathroom door and put up a sign warning others not to enter. If the flooding has spread into hallways or other office areas, use cones, caution tape or even chairs to block access.
- Turn off the water supply if possible. If the flooding is serious and you can’t stop it at the fixture, locate the main water shuttle valve for your office. This valve is usually near where the water line enters the building. Shutting off the main valve will cut water flow to the entire office and stop the flooding from getting worse. You should only attempt this step if it’s safe and you know where the valve is, but this is where you need the plumber to help.
- Call in the professionals. When a plumbing issue causes flooding, it’s important to call a qualified plumber as soon as he can. Even if the water seems manageable, there could be a hidden damage or danger or underlying issues that need expert attention. You can’t see if the water has affected the electrics, but the plumber can. A professional will identify the cause, fix it properly and help to prevent future problems.
- Clean up and dry the area quickly. Once the water has stopped, start cleaning up to prevent damage and mold growth. Use mops, towels or a wet, dry vacuum to remove as much water as possible. If the flooding is extensive, you may want to call a cleaning or restoration service. Open all the windows and use fans or dehumidifiers to help to dry the area. Carpets, walls and wooden floors need to be looked at by professionals just to make sure they haven’t absorbed too much moisture.
A flooded office bathroom is never fun, but with quick thinking and the right steps, you can minimize the damage and restore normal operations in no time. Safety, communication and prompt, professional help are key.
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This is a contributed post.
