Emergency Guano cleaning in Hampshire
Emergency guano cleaning
In this case study, we explore an emergency guano cleaning situation that occurred at a commercial facility dealing with a substantial bird droppings accumulation, also known as guano.
Guano, the accumulated excrement of birds, posed a serious health and safety risk where the facility in question faced a challenging and urgent scenario that required a rapid response to mitigate potential hazards and restore normal operations.
The commercial facility is a large historical building situated in a suburban area, which has back of house areas that serve as a critical storage centre for the facility.
The structure had high ceilings and numerous rafters, making it a suitable roosting spot for local bird populations and due to the prolonged absence of any preventive measures, guano had accumulated significantly in the areas over a period of several months.
The build up reached a critical point where the facility’s employees began to notice unpleasant odours and a considerable number of pests attracted to the guano deposits.
As a result, the facility’s management inspected the premises to assess the severity of the situation as the presence of guano in the store area posed several serious health and safety concerns.
Upon identifying the severity of the guano accumulation, the facility’s management got in touch with our office where we activated our emergency response plan.
Is Guano dangerous?
Guano can harbour various pathogens, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, which can lead to respiratory illnesses and other infections if inhaled or accidentally ingested, hence it was very important that it was cleaned professionally and quickly.
Guano contains high levels of uric acid, which can corrode metal structures and weaken building materials over time, potentially leading to structural failures.
The accumulated guano when wet from condensation or rain also created slippery surfaces on floors below, leading to potential slip and fall accidents for employees and any visitors.
Delivering a safe clean
To ensure the safety of personnel during the cleaning process, the team equipped themselves with personal protective equipment (PPE), including respirators, goggles, gloves, and protective clothing, the team then developed a detailed plan outlining the cleaning methods, tools, and equipment required to remove the guano safely and efficiently.
All employees within the facility were informed about the emergency situation, emphasising safety protocols, and were temporarily relocated to avoid any potential risks during the clean up process.
This emergency guano cleaning process involved a number key steps, some of which are critical to ensure a thorough clean, namely the removal of the guano, safe disposal and decontamination.
The team attended the property and conducted a thorough assessment of the guano build up, we inspected the rafters, beams, floor spaces and other affected areas.
Our technicians used specialised cleaning equipment, such as long-handled scrapers and vacuums with HEPA filters, to carefully remove the guano from the rafters and other affected areas.
The removed guano was placed in sealed, biohazard bags and transported to a designated disposal facility following appropriate waste management guidelines, after which all affected areas were thoroughly cleaned and decontaminated using appropriate disinfectants and cleaning agents to eliminate any remaining pathogens.
To prevent future guano accumulation, the team implemented measures such as installing bird netting, sealing potential entry points, and set up nest sites in nearby areas to encourage the birds to roost elsewhere.
Through the prompt and effective implementation of our emergency response plan, the facility successfully received a full clear and decontamination programme, ensuring the health and safety of its employees and visitors.
This experience highlighted the importance of proactive measures to prevent guano build up and the significance of having a well-prepared emergency response plan in place for dealing with unexpected situations.
Where do we remove Guano from?
- Scaffolding.
- Warehouses, Factories and Commercial Offices.
- Facades and Cladding.
- Statues and Monuments.
- Car Parks and Pavements.
- Everywhere else wherever it is needed to be removed whilst practical and safe to do so.
Our Mission.
To be the number one choice as a supplier, employer, or partner for specialist property damage cleaning & restoration, and decontamination services. Harnessing the latest product and system innovation, we will create an inspirational environment for our people to develop and thrive, deliver service with respect, and always hold the customer at the core of what we do.
Our Brand Promise
We always promise that ‘We Restore, You Recover’ – this goes beyond providing the specialist restoration, cleaning and decontamination services, and focuses on really listening to what our customers want, and delivering a service with empathy, honesty and respect.
If you would like to learn more about our company and the services we offer, or to learn more about how we can assist you, please do be in touch using our contact form or by calling the office directly on 01903 714376 who are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Rainbow Restoration is one of the leading providers of Specialist Cleaning and Damage Remediation services in the UK taking pride in delivering an excellent cost-effective service to our clients. Our dedicated staff are committed to offering 100% satisfaction rates and strive to maintain our 5-star reputation.
Our dedicated team of experts brings a wealth of experience, knowledge, and innovation to every project, ensuring unmatched results and utmost client satisfaction.
Further safety information can be found here on the HS&E website.