NSW Highschool Flood Case Study
In February 2023, FRA effectively managed the water damage at a New South Wales college caused by a burst flexi hose, successfully restoring a complex basketball court structure without replacement, ensuring continued facility use, and significantly reducing potential costs.
What We Did
Efficiency
High level of efficiency by quickly addressing the water damage, minimising disruption.
Innovation
Innovative use of push-pull airflow and strategic access hatches.
Cost-effectiveness
Took immediate action to create a containment zone and addressed potential hazards.
The Job
The Situation
In February 2023, FRA was called to a college in Sutherland, New South Wales, to address water damage caused by a burst flexi hose in a kitchenette. This resulted in water accumulating in five electrical/audio-visual subfloor pits within the basketball court/gymnasium/assembly hall, a significant area measuring 25m wide x 45m long x 6.5m high. The water was categorised as CAT1 (clean water) and classified as Class 4 (bound or trapped water).
In February 2023, FRA was called to a college in Sutherland, New South Wales, to address water damage caused by a burst flexi hose in a kitchenette. This resulted in water accumulating in five electrical/audio-visual subfloor pits within the basketball court/gymnasium/assembly hall, a significant area measuring 25m wide x 45m long x 6.5m high. The water was categorised as CAT1 (clean water) and classified as Class 4 (bound or trapped water).
What We Did
FRA swiftly isolated power to the affected subfloor pits and initiated a six-hour water extraction process. The technicians used innovative drying techniques and installed two new access hatches to facilitate the drying process without the need for replacing the basketball court flooring—initial estimates had suggested replacement costs between $70,000 and $150,000.
Major Challenges
- Accessibility: Managing restoration efforts in a busy college environment without disrupting student activities.|
- Water Extraction: Removing water from the subfloor void and managing its disposal.
- Structural Complexity: The unique construction of the floor required specific restoration approaches.
- Continued Use: The college’s requirement to keep using the area for its regular functions during the restoration process.
Creative Solutions and Cost Savings
FRA utilised a push-pull method to manage airflow and control contamination spread effectively. By having the client install new access hatches in strategic locations, FRA maximised the use of existing resources, which significantly reduced the overall project costs. This approach not only saved the cost of replacing the basketball court but also expedited the drying process.
The Result
The project was successfully completed on March 17, 2023. The basketball court was fully restored without replacement, demonstrating FRA’s ability to deliver innovative, cost-effective solutions tailored to complex scenarios. The preservation of the basketball court not only saved significant costs but also allowed the college to continue its activities with minimal disruption, showcasing FRA’s commitment to client needs and project efficiency.
