Recent Commercial Posts

Water Damage at Muskegon, MI School

6/14/2023 (Permalink)

Inch of standing water in restroom, reflecting ceiling lights Be prepared before disaster happens, schedule your ERP appointment today!

As a Facilities Director for a county, water damage to a school can be particularly brutal.  Not only is there the damage itself that needs repaired quickly, but there's the disruption to the students and teachers.  SERVPRO of Muskegon professionals are prepared to evaluate your water-damaged property swiftly.

The Facilities Director for this school in Muskegon called us right away after a two inch main water pipe broke on the second floor of the building on a Friday at 4:00pm.  Staff did not know where the main water shut off was so water kept gushing into the facility affecting more rooms.  The Facilities Director now sees the importance of an Emergency Ready Plan (ERP) for all of the buildings that he oversees.  If one would have been in place at this facility they would have known where the main water shut off was and could have minimized damages.

An ERP is a no-cost assessment of your facility, a concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency, and a guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.  With our Emergency Ready Plan, your facility will be able to minimize interruption because you'll know what to do and what to expect if any-sized disaster strikes, during regular hours or after hours.

You can stay a step ahead of unexpected events by having a plan of action in place before you need it.  Call SERVPRO of Muskegon to schedule your ERP appointment today, 231-733-7601

Commercial Services Available For Your Cloverville, MI Business

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

Ariel shot of a condo When it comes to commercial and residential restoration services, SERVPRO is a leader in the industry.

For your Cloverville business, the most important thing is getting you back to business as soon as possible.  When a disaster strikes, not only do damages cost you, but also the time spent not servicing your customers and clients is detrimental to your business.  SERVPRO of Muskegon is available 24/7 and can service any sized job.  We will be there to get you back on track.  We have the personnel and equipment to ensure that your cleanup and restoration process is completed quickly and correctly.  SERVPRO of Muskegon also has the training and expertise to help make it, "Like it never even happened."

Large or small, SERVPRO of Muskegon is Here to help®

  • Small Office Buildings
  • Large Office/High-Rise Office Buildings
  • Apartment Buildings
  • Restaurants
  • Hotels/Motels
  • Small Retail Stores
  • Large Retail/Big-Box Stores
  • High-Rise Residential
  • Manufacturing and Industrial
  • Government/Military

If your business has experienced a disaster, call SERVPRO of Muskegon today, 231-733-7601

Defense Against Mold Growth In Your North Muskegon Business

2/17/2022 (Permalink)

Black mold on commercial wall This black mold behind trim was caused by a water damage that was not properly mitigated.

Mold thrives in damp, humid, and wet conditions.  Prompt mitigation is vital to avoid mold growth, which can be visible in as little as 24 to 48 hours under certain conditions.  The following are some tips to help defend mold growth in your North Muskegon business:

  • Keep humidity between 30 to 60 percent.
  • Provide for proper drainage away from building foundations.
  • Regularly inspect plumbing and appliances for leaks.
  • Keep gutters and drains clear of debris.
  • Inspect the roof, windows, and other areas where water might enter the building, and perform necessary maintenance.
  • Respond to all water intrusions immediately.
  • Contact SERVPRO of Muskegon for assistance after a water damage or if you discover mold.

Mold growth can disrupt your business, but it also can be mitigated quickly by a mold remediation company.  Our team at SERVPRO of Muskegon has successfully remediated numerous mold impacted businesses.  Call us today for a free estimate, 231-733-7601

Winter Weather Preparedness For Your Norton Shores Church

2/3/2022 (Permalink)

Sanctuary of church flooded This flooded church sanctuary was caused by a supply line breaking.

Winter weather brings concerns about heat and maximizing its retention, frozen pipes, and access to your Norton Shores church.  This church recently had a supply line break after freezing and then bursting, affecting the sanctuary with a half inch of standing water and traveling to numerous other rooms.  Below are some tips from the U.S. Small Business Administration to identify areas of your church that are most susceptible to winter hazards and suggest ways to minimize damage.

Before a Storm:

  • Check your insurance coverage for protection against winter hazards.
  • Add the following supplies to your disaster supply kit: rock salt (to melt ice on driveways and walkways), sand (to improve traction), and snow shovels (or other snow removal equipment).
  • Determine your greatest risk potential: loss of heat, frozen pipes, and/or loss of access due to snow/ice.
  • Identify who is responsible for keeping heating equipment in good working order.
  • Figure out who is responsible for snow/ice removal.
  • Seal all openings with caulking and insulation where cold air can enter.
  • Repair walls and roofs to prevent drafts; inspect roof drains for debris.
  • Make sure heating and heat-producing equipment is in good condition and operating efficiently.
  • Arrange for snow removal from driveways, doorways, and walkways.
  • Monitor building temperatures especially in hard-to-heat areas containing vulnerable equipment.  Keep temperatures above 40°F.
  • Mark fire hydrants near for ease in locating and clearing after a heavy storm.

During the Storm:

  • Heaters, snow blowers, generators, and snow shovels should be located where they are most likely to be used.
  • Keep driveways, walkways, and doorways clear of snow and ice.
  • Turn on water faucets slightly to let them drip in order to keep water flowing through pipes that are vulnerable to freezing.
  • Have contact information readily accessible for your heating contractor, plumber, fire department, insurance agent, and SERVPRO of Muskegon.
  • Have someone assigned to check indoor temperatures if your church will be vacant for an extended period of time.

If your church has suffered water damage from winter hazards, call SERVPRO of Muskegon, 231-733-7601.  We help to ensure your damage is mitigated according to industry standard.

Is Your Ravenna Business Fire Suppression System Safe From The Cold Weather?

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

Puddle of water on office carpet This flooded office was caused by a broken fire suppression line.

A fire suppression system in your Ravenna business is imperative for fire safety and minimizing damages from a fire, but it can cause extreme amounts of water damage if a pipe freezes and cracks or bursts.  Recently we received a call from a facility after hours that fell victim to this scenario.  13 spaces were affected after their fire suppression line broke in their break room, affecting ceiling tiles and drywall, and then spreading to multiple other rooms with commercial grade carpet and vinyl flooring.  Frozen pipes occur for two basic reasons, installation of pipes in an unheated space without adequate protection, and/or insufficient heat in the area of the freeze.  To combat this, have your system checked to make sure it is properly insulated and protected from the elements.

Water damage doesn't always happen Monday - Friday, 8:00am - 5:00pm.  Good thing SERVPRO of Muskegon is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to help make it "Like it never even happened."®  If your business has experience water damage, call us today, 231-733-7601

Still Here to Help Your Fruitport Business

1/27/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO professional fully suited up in PPE spraying ServprOXIDE™ Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned = a higher standard of clean

The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed what it means to be clean and with the different variants emerging your employees and patrons wonder whether your Fruitport business is safe.  SERVPRO of Muskegon professionals have been on the front lines of proactive and reactive COVID-related cleanup from the start.

Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned is a defensive cleaning program that SERVPRO offers to commercial and residential locations to address the current COVID-19 pandemic.  This is a level of clean that goes beyond janitorial or carpet cleaning; a viral pathogen cleaning.  Our professionals are trained and experienced in biohazard decontamination, always adhering to the cleaning and decontamination standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local authorities.

If your business has had a confirmed COVID-19 case or just wants to take proactive measures, call SERVPRO of Muskegon to choose a higher standard of clean, 231-733-7601

Sewage Backup Causes At Your Whitehall Business

12/29/2021 (Permalink)

Office hallway with raw sewage SERVPRO professionals have the training and expertise to help make your damage “Like it never even happened.”

No one looks forward to having water damage, let alone a sewage backup.  The following are three main reasons that your Whitehall business may experience a sewage backup.

  • Clog - if you only have a singular trouble area that experiences a backup, such as a tub, sink, or toilet, then it is most likely a clog and can be fixed by cleaning the drain.  If all drains in your home are backed up, then there is a blockage at the main that is causing the issue.  Until the blockage is removed, the overflow will continue and cause extensive damage to your business.
  • Tree Roots - roots of large trees close to sewer lines can often cause severe problems.  They can grow into pipes causing holes and blockages or they can wrap around the sewer line and crush it.
  • Damaged Sewer Lines - older properties that have not upgraded their sewer lines can have broken or collapsed lines.  Older property lines were built using cast iron and clay that wears over time, can get rusty, and break down.  New sewer lines are plastic and cannot cause these issues.

Sewage backups can be hazardous to your health and cause a great amount of structural damage to your business.  If you experience a sewage backup, do not attempt to flush the toilet.  Do not use harsh chemicals to attempt to clear the drain yourself.  Leave the clearing and cleaning to the professionals, as SERVPRO of Muskegon helps to ensure your damage is mitigated according to industry standards.

If your business has experienced a sewage backup, call SERVPRO of Muskegon today, 231-733-7601, we are Here to help®

Restaurant Grease Fire in Muskegon, MI

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

Aftermath of grease fire in commercial kitchen Call SERVPRO of Muskegon after a commercial kitchen grease fire.

Fires are the biggest realistic disaster to occur in a restaurant.  According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), there are an average of 8,240 fires at restaurants a year with $245 million plus in property damage.  Around 40% of restaurant fires start in the kitchen.  The following are some of the top causes of these fires, and what can be done to prevent them:

  • Exhaust System and Ductwork In restaurants, a main way fires spread so rapidly is due to the ventilation work and exhaust system.  Vents and fans behind cooking equipment, such as ovens and stoves, and oven hoods, can get grease buildup and extract flammable vapors.  Make sure to clean these regularly to reduce the risk of fire, or at least the extent of the fire, if one does occur, will drastically decrease.
  • Oil and Grease Traps A grease fire occurs when the oil becomes too hot.  When cooking with oil, first it will boil, then it will smoke, and then it will catch on fire.  It can take less than 30 seconds for smoking oil to catch fire, so never leave your pot or pan unattended.  If you do experience a grease fire, turn off the burner but do not move the pan as that can cause the fire to potentially spread.
  • Electrical Electrical fires can be started from poorly constructed wiring or other electrical components projecting heat to flammable materials.  Short-circuiting, plugging equipment in beyond the electrical capacity for the building, can also cause a fire.  An electrician should routinely check wiring to protect against these risks.
  • Gas Leaks Gas leaks are the most devastating restaurant fire.  These happen when equipment can no longer support the gas flow adequately, leaving flammable gas in the air.  These leaks can usually be detected by smell and are a crucial issue to deal with.

This business in Muskegon had a grease fire which was put out by a fire extinguisher.  They knew to call SERVPRO of Muskegon to take care of the grease, fire extinguisher powder, and grease smell.  With our special SERVPRO products our technicians were able to make everything look and smell "Like it never even happened."

Has your restaurant experienced a grease fire?  This is not a DIY project for your employees.  Call SERVPRO of Muskegon, a trusted leader in the restoration industry, to restore your business quickly, 231-733-7601

Be Ready When Disaster Strikes

2/22/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile Logo Are you "Ready for whatever happens"?

No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can plan for it ahead of time.  Now is the time to ask yourself, "Are you ready for whatever could happen?"  The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile gives you peace of mind, providing critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services, and serving as a quick reference of important building and contact information.

The SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile Advantage

  • A no cost assessment of your facility.
  • A concise Profile Document that contains only the critical information needed in the event of an emergency.
  • A guide to help you get back into your building following a disaster.
  • Establishes SERVPRO of Muskegon as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider.
  • Identification of the line of command for authorizing work to begin.
  • Provides facility details such as shut-off valve locations, priority areas, and priority contact information.

Call SERVPRO of Muskegon today to get started and be "Ready for whatever happens." 231-733-7601

Tips for Your Business When Dealing With Biohazards

2/15/2021 (Permalink)

Biohazard sign Call SERVPRO of Muskegon at the first sign of a biohazard contamination

Biohazard contaminants should be considered extremely dangerous as they can pose a serious health risk to you, your staff, and your customers.  Sewer backups, flood water, COVID-19 exposure, and bodily fluids are some biohazard scenarios that can affect your business.  SERVPRO of Muskegon has the training, protective gear, and specialized equipment necessary to safely clean and restore this type of contamination.

After any biohazard contamination in your business, your primary focus should be safety.  Is it safe to stay in your business?  Exposure to biological and chemical contaminants can pose serious health consequences.

What to do after a contamination:

  • Stay out of affected areas
  • Call emergency service personnel if the situation is life threatening
  • Treat all bodily fluids as if they are contaminated
  • Turn off the HVAC system if there is sewage damage

If your business bas been affected by a biohazard contaminant call SERVPRO of Muskegon at the first sign, we are Here to Help - (231) 733-7601

The First 24 Hours; How Critical Are They?

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

Hourglass The first 24 hours is critical

Water or fire losses, even smaller incidents, can result in costly claims over time.  The longer moisture, smoke, or soot have to permeate contents and structural components, the more secondary damage one can expect.

Experience has shown that fast, appropriate action delivered with the first 24 hours can dramatically reduce secondary damage.  Smoke and soot have less time to chemically interact and damage or destroy contents, and moisture is prevented from spreading and breaking down structural components or promoting the growth of mold and mildew.

Offering 24-hour emergency services, SERPVRO of Muskegon is committed to responding to fire and water claims during the most critical time period following a loss, usually onsite in less than four hours.

The objective of critical response is to help return business owners' properties back to its preloss condition while also controlling costs.  SERVPRO of Muskegon can provide the emergency service, mitigation, cleanup and restoration experience and industry-specific technology to help you accomplish these goals.

Call SERVPRO of Muskegon today if you have experienced fire or water damage in your business, (231) 733-7601

Fire Extinguisher Safety Tips for the Workplace

2/2/2021 (Permalink)

Fire extinguisher hanging on brick wall Fire damage? SERVPRO of Muskegon can help!

According to OSHA, the most common emergency small businesses must plan for is a fire.  Fire extinguishers can be invaluable tools to help fight smaller fires in the workplace.

It is important for employees to know how to use an extinguisher properly and also know how to accurately assess a fire situation.

The PASS method is a simple training technique for fire extinguishers:

  • P - Pull the pin on the extinguisher
  • A - Aim the hose nozzle low toward the base of the fire
  • S - Squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing agent
  • S - Sweep the nozzle from side to side at the base of the flames until extinguished

Fire extinguishers are meant to handle only small fires.  If a fire becomes too large, or the environment becomes too dangerous, employees should know when and how to evacuate the area safely; and if appropriate, sound the fire alarm or call the fire department immediately.

SERVPRO of Muskegon is available 24/7 if your business incurs damage from a fire.  Call us at (231) 733-7601, we are Here to Help!

Fire Strikes a School in Muskegon, MI

1/18/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO technician on lift cleaning soot No ceiling is too high for our crew!

Last month, a school in Muskegon, MI experienced a fire from an exhaust fan in the ceiling of a bathroom.  SERVPRO of Muskegon was called out immediately to assess the damage.  The fire was put out with a small amount of water but the entire school had soot throughout on surfaces.

When you experience a fire in your business, the same and water damage from the firefighters' extinguishing efforts likely cause additional damage.  If you experience a fire loss in your business, here are some tips to better understand the fire restoration process:

  1. First Contact When you call us, you will be asked questions regarding the fire damage that will help us respond immediately with the appropriate team, equipment, and resources.
  2. Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment SERVPRO of Muskegon will carefully inspect the entire building, not just the immediate area, as sometimes soot and water can affect areas that are not always seen.  This step is crucial to developing the best plan of action.
  3. Immediate Board-up and Roof Tarp Service Fire damage can often compromise windows, walls, and roofs.  To maintain security and to protect against further damage, missing windows and walls are boarded up and damaged roofs are tarped.
  4. Water Removal and Drying (if water is present) The water removal process begins almost immediately, removing the majority of the water.  Most of the water occurs if pipes melt and leak, from sprinkler systems, or from firefighters' efforts to extinguish the fire.  We use dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining water to complete the drying process.
  5. Removal of Smoke and Soot from All Surfaces We use specialized equipment and techniques to remove smoke and soot from ceilings, walls, and other surfaces.
  6. Cleaning and Sanitizing We clean, sanitize, and disinfect all of the restorable items and structures that were damaged by the fire with SERVPRO commercial grade cleaning products.  We can also remove several types of odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

If you have experienced fire damage in your business, call SERVPRO of Muskegon today, (231) 733-7601.

Safety Is Key

4/16/2020 (Permalink)

When it comes to running a clean and safe business, sanitation should be one of your highest priorities. In these uncertain times, you can never be too safe. Our crew is experienced in commercial sanitation and use EPA approved products and follow CDC guidelines to ensure that proper sanitation procedures are met. Whether it be just basic preventative cleaning, or biohazard sanitation, we got you covered. If you are regularly cleaning your facility to protect the health of your employees, here are some focus spaces mentioned by the CDC:

  • Kitchen/Food Areas
  • Bathrooms
  • Offices
  • Retail Spaces
  • Water Fountains
  • Shelving/Racks
  • Sales Counters
  • Carpet/Rugs
  • Stair Handrails
  • Elevators
  • Fitness Equipment

Any areas within your business that receive heavy traffic or regular interaction should be sanitized regularly. If you have any questions regarding our sanitation services or the products that we use, call today!

SERVPRO of Muskegon: 231-733-7601

Document Your Utilities

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

There is a wide variety of responsibilities that goes into owning a business. One of which is knowing your facility inside and out. There are times that you will not be onsite to assist should something go wrong, so it is crucial to have all the important information about your facility organized. It is not uncommon to speak with a business owner who does not know the location of the main water shutoff, gas shutoff, electric shutoff, etc. Knowing this information can help mitigate a loss immensely. If a pipe break causes your business to flood, mere seconds are costly. Make it a priority that managers, maintenance personnel, and other employees know where the utility shutoffs are and who they need to call should something happen.

What Can You Handle?

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

When speaking with local businesses throughout Muskegon, the focus of discussion is often water and fire damage. We often hear the phrase "We handle all our stuff in-house". Although well prepared and well funded maintenance crews are able to manage most scenarios, there are times when a loss can just be too much. That is where we come in. Our highly trained team of technicians have the experience and equipment to perform even the most extensive restoration jobs. Much of these large scale disasters require specialty restoration equipment that most maintenance teams do not have on-hand. That is why we encourage local businesses to have a go-to restoration company that can help in their time of need. A loss tends to happen at the most inconvenient times and action is often required immediately.

Restaurant Fires

2/20/2020 (Permalink)

If you are a restaurant owner, you fully understand the fear of experiencing a fire. Whether large or small, it can easily put you out of commission for an extended period of time or even shut your doors for good. With your business heavily relying on being open to the public, we make it our priority to get you back running as quickly as possible. We have experience restoring all different sized commercial properties after a fire loss. We ensure that you will stay informed every step of the way to make the process as smooth as possible. No job is too big or small for us to handle. We always make sure that our customers are both safe and satisfied when our work is completed.

Musty Smell

2/20/2020 (Permalink)

There are a variety of ways that moisture can get into your facility. Unfortunately, some moisture isn't easily detected until you discover the presence of mold. Mold can primarily be discovered through visibly seeing it or smelling a musty odor. If you own a business of any kind, it is always a priority to ensure the safety of your customers. Mold has the ability to grow very quickly after experiencing water damage and should be addressed immediately. If you are unsure what is causing the mold, we can often times assist in that as well. Our technicians have the tools and experience to discover the presence of hidden moisture that could be the root of the problem. If mold is discovered in your facility, trust the professionals to successfully remediate it. If not performed correctly, mold can easily spread and become a larger problem.

There For You When Disaster Strikes

1/21/2020 (Permalink)

When it comes to owning a business, one of the most important contacts to have is a go to restoration company. Business owners and maintenance personnel often times feel that they have the equipment and manpower to handle any loss they could experience. When disaster strikes, it is easy to get overwhelmed and realize that you need help. If a restoration job is not performed correctly or in an adequate amount of time, your facility could experience significantly more damage. Having a go to restoration company is something that you tend to not consider unless you have experienced a loss in the past. We are available 24/7 and have the ability to help whenever disaster strikes. We make it a priority to help our customers whenever they are in need.

Commercial General Cleaning

4/25/2019 (Permalink)

Is your commercial facility in need of a deep clean? Luckily, we got you covered. Many facility owners realize that due to contents, structural materials, etc. they are not able to simply hose down the inside of their building without causing serious damages. Taking trained employees off their jobs to hand clean your facility can really cut into revenue.

Our technicians have experience cleaning large commercial facilities by hand to ensure that no damage is done and your building is left looking flawless. We have the equipment needed to successfully clean a variety of different surfaces and structures.

If you have recently acquired a new facility or looking to get rid of years of dust and grime in your business, we are the company for you.

Have Questions? Call Today – (231) 733-7601

Checking Newly Acquired Facilities

3/4/2019 (Permalink)

Many businesses, if successful, will begin to acquire new facilities as they expand and grow. Sometimes this means building a new structure, and other times it means gaining ownership of an already existing one. Many businesses that acquire existing facilities with plans to remodel discover that their facility may have water/mold damage. This is not uncommon when a facility has sat vacant for some time. When a situation such as this occurs, it is important that the new owner takes proper precautionary measures. Our highly trained team of technicians have experience working with vacant facilities. If your business has recently acquired a building that you fear has experienced water/mold damage, call SERVPRO of Muskegon. We make it our priority to ensure the health and safety of our customers.

SERVPRO of Muskegon: 231-733-7601

Preventing Commercial Grease Fires

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

There are a variety of different ways that a grease fire can start in a commercial kitchen. A mixture of flammable items and a chaotic environment is a recipe for a fire eventually. Luckily, there are safety precautions that you can take to prevent a kitchen fire.

Always make sure that you keep everything clean. Most kitchen fires begin when flammable cooking material such as oil or grease is ignited. It is also important to make sure that deep fryers and hood filters are properly maintained. Although having a clean kitchen doesn't make it completely fireproof, it highly decreases the likelihood of experiencing a fire.

Make sure you have proper safety equipment on-site. This includes having up-to-date fire extinguishers as well as investing in a fire suppression system. The fire suppression system will dispense chemicals immediately to combat a fire, helping to prevent the spread. 

Be sure that kitchen staff have training on how to prevent fires as well as procedures for if one does occur. Think about fire prevention as an investment.

Mold In Your Commercial Facility

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

When it comes to running a commercial facility, there are a variety of responsibilities. One of the main ones is protecting your employees and occupants from any harmful substances. A commercial facility can be a manufacturer, school, church, etc. When it comes to facilities such as schools and churches, children are often present. This raises even more of a health protection concern as children are more susceptible to illness.

Commercial facilities range in size and frequently experience water losses due to their increased risk. When a loss occurs, it is very important that facility managers ensure that it is properly resolved. A lack of equipment or training could result in health risks should mold begin to appear. Along with health risks comes a shutdown period. In order to maintain the health of employees and occupants, the facility will often times need to be closed until the mold remediation is complete. This can cause large drops in revenue.

If your commercial facility experiences a mold problem, call SERVPRO of Muskegon to ensure that it is properly handled. 

Have a Mold Problem? Call Us Today – (231)733-7601

Preparation Is Key

3/1/2019 (Permalink)

It is not a matter of if, but rather when something is going to happen. A disaster can and will happen at any moment in time. This can range from a small pipe break, to half of your facility going up in flames. One of the most important things you, as a facility manager, can do is to be prepared. This means knowing where things are located in your facility, and knowing who to call. If somebody were to ask you the name and number of the plumber, or electrician, or building contractor, etc. in an emergency situation, would you know it off hand? This is the problem that many facility managers do not regularly think about. If you do not have a plan in place should an emergency occur, then you are not prepared. The longer a fire burns or water runs, the more money it will cost you. Preparation truly is key to whether your business bounces back, or shuts its doors.

Emergency Response

2/27/2019 (Permalink)

When it comes to handling a commercial loss, time is of the essence. The most important thing is getting the problem resolved as quickly and effectively as possible so that you can get back to making money. You also do not want a loss to prolong and begin creating further damages. 

Luckily, we have a 24 Hour Emergency Response Service. We have the ability to respond to a loss at your facility at anytime to begin the restoration process. This can save you not only income from production halt, but also thousands of dollars worth of extensive damages. The sooner the restoration process begins, the less damage done. If your commercial facility experiences a loss, do not hesitate. Time is money.

Call Us Today – (231) 733-7601

Eliminating Electrical Fires is Risky Business

5/19/2018 (Permalink)

Electricians, engineers and other professionals who work directly with electricity have an increased risk of electrical related injuries. Office workers and sales people who indirectly work with electricity may also be exposed to electrical hazards. Without electricity and electrical products, we could not conduct business on a daily basis. Using electricity properly is very important in order to avoid serious safety risks. Working with electricity both directly and indirectly can be very dangerous.

According to the Electrical Safety Foundation, over the last ten years, more than 30,000 workers have been injured in workplace electrical accidents. Electrical system failures are the cause of electrical fires however more electrical fires are caused by incorrect installed wiring, overloaded circuits, and improperly used extension cords.

If you knew electrically related fatalities and injuries could easily be avoided, what would you do? Take precautions by routinely checking electrical appliances and wiring could help prevent electrical fires hazards. Buy electrical products that are evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory. Unplugging electrical devices that are not in use, never overload extension cords or wall outlets. Make the appropriate adjustments to protect yourself and make safety a huge part in how you do business.

Did you know? 

  • Electrical hazards cause more than 300 deaths and 4,000 injuries in the workplace each year.
  • Electrical accidents rank sixth among all types of work-related deaths in the US.
  • Electrical accidents on the job cause an average of 13 days away from work and nearly one fatality every day.
  • The non-fatal workplace incidents that cause the highest number of days away from work include contact with an electrical current or a machine, tool, appliance or light fixture (38 percent) and contact with wiring, transformers or other electrical components (33 percent).
  • Nonfatal electrical injury occurs most often to those who work with machines or tools and around electrical wiring other than power lines.
  • Over the last 10 years, more than 46,000 workers were injured from on-the-job electrical hazards.

*Facts and figures provided by the Electrical Safety Foundation

Prevent the Spread of Flu Germs in your Business

4/6/2018 (Permalink)

Businesses (and homes) can depend on  SERVPRO of Muskegon to clean and sanitize building materials, surfaces and contents following restoration industry standards, using professional cleaning products and EPA-registered cleaners and disinfectants. SERVPRO of Muskegon Professionals are also trained and equipped to clean your HVAC and duct systems to help provide better air quality and help reduce the risk of circulating harmful contaminants. If you have concerns about the cleanliness and sanitation of your place of business (or home), call SERVPRO of Muskegon today 231-733-7601.  

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people may take action everyday to stay healthy in the wake of the recent flu outbreak.

  • Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way

Try to avoid close contact with sick people. For more helpful information regarding Flu Germs, contact the Center for Disease Control and Prevention's website https://www.cdc.gov/

Commercial MOLD Remediation

3/1/2018 (Permalink)

Mold in a commercial structure no only causes an interruption in business but it can also present a serious health risk for people exposed. A minor water intrusion like a slow roof leak or loose plumbing fittings can cause a major mold infestation. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. If you suspect your property has a mold problem, call SERVPRO of Muskegon, who will respond quickly and work fast to manage the situation.

  • 24 Hour Emergency Service
  • Faster to Any Size Disaster
  • A Trusted Leader in the Mold and Water Restoration Industry with over 1,700 Franchises
  • Highly Trained Mold and Water Damage Restoration Specialists

Have a Mold Problem? Call Us Today – (231)733-7601

Commercial Mold Remediation Presents Unique Challenges

Mold left untreated can spread quickly through a property. SERVPRO of Muskegon can respond quickly, working to first contain the infestation to help prevent its spread to other parts of the building. Next, we will begin the remediation process, working safely and effectively to manage the situation. We have the training, experience, and equipment to contain the mold infestation and remediate it to preloss condition. Learn more about SERVPRO of Muskegon training and certifications.

  • Applied Microbial Remediation Specialist
  • Water Damage Restoration Technician
  • Applied Structural Drying Technician
  • Odor Control Technician
  • Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning Technician

Commit to Being Ready for any Disaster

2/28/2018 (Permalink)

Business owners and managers are leaders in the community. They have the opportunity to set an example for their employees, customers, and community to follow. Join your community in preparing for emergencies and disasters of all types by leading efforts to encourage the community as a whole to become more prepared. Disasters not only devastate individuals and neighborhoods, but entire communities, including businesses of all sizes. As an employer in your community, having a business continuity plan can help protect your company, its employees, and its infrastructure, and maximizes your chances of recovery after an emergency or disaster.

Ready Business asks companies to take three simple steps:

  • Plan to stay in business
  • Encourage your people to become Ready
  • Protect your investment

The Ready Campaign and Citizen Corps, with support from members of the National Preparedness Community across the nation, including SERVPRO of Muskegon, are focusing on encouraging individuals, families, and businesses to take active steps toward becoming Ready. We must work together as a team to ensure that our families, businesses, places of worship, and neighborhoods are Ready.

Ready Business, an extension of the Ready Campaign, helps business owners and managers of small and medium-sized businesses prepare their employees, operations and assets in the event of an emergency. At Ready.gov/business, companies can find vital information on how to get started preparing their organization and addressing their unique needs during an emergency.

Tips to help your Business be READY

  • Update and distribute Emergency Contact Information to your Employees. Additionally, you can create and distribute a list of important emergency numbers in the areas you do business.
  • Organize an Emergency Preparedness Procedures review with employees to review your company’s emergency plans.
  • Conduct Office Evacuation/Shelter-in Place Exercises and Drills. Once completed, evaluate how well they worked and if additional training or exercises are needed.
  • Put Emergency Items on Display.Showcase an Emergency Supply Kit in your break room or other high-traffic locations and encourage employees to get their own Emergency Supply Kits for their homes.

Information provided by Ready.gov

Commercial Property Water Intrusion

2/23/2018 (Permalink)

Water intrusion may be more severe in commercial buildings than in a residential setting and the effects can be more extensive. Many commercial structures have a larger volume of water entering the premises through plumbing supply lines and at a higher water pressure. The quantity of outgoing sewage is greater than a typical residence, as well. Also, commercial buildings tend to be of larger square footage than a home, so entry points for water intrusion through areas like the roof, exterior walls or windows are commensurately greater in number, as well.

Water intrusion in commercial buildings can damage high-value equipment like computers and also building services such as HVAC, lighting, elevators and security equipment. Common long-term consequences of water damage like the growth of mold may be even more problematic than in a home due to the larger occupancy of a business or other commercial enterprise. When a greater number of people with a wider range of sensitivity are exposed to mold and bacteria spores, health impacts may be significantly magnified, perhaps leading to an enforced closure of the facility until the situation is fully remediated.

Typical issues from water intrusion in the commercial environment include:

  • Water from roof leaks penetrating through ceilings. Chronic leakage through the roof may proceed unnoticed for long periods, hidden by suspended ceiling panels or in electrical or HVAC service areas above.
  • Ruptures of water supply lines typically release clean (white) water. Sewage backups or leaks in drain pipes release toxic (black) water that may be a bio-hazard and require evacuation of the premises.
  • Flooding from external sources can result from heavy rains, storms such as hurricanes, rapid snow melt or local overflowing lakes or rivers.
  • Moisture intrusion through the building envelope is typically more subtle. Humid outdoor air may be drawn in through structural cracks and gaps. Over a period, chronic dampness forms in spaces like wall voids, unventilated attics and service areas, spawning hidden mold growth that persists unseen.

For professional remediation of water intrusion in commercial buildings and its secondary damages such as mold growth, contact SERVPRO of Muskegon if water becomes an unwanted guest. 

Emergencies can happen anytime and with the SERVPRO Ready Profile you can be prepared to handle those emergencies like a water intrusion caused by a broken pipe. For your FREE Emergency Ready Profile, contact the pros at SERVPRO of Muskegon so we can make your property ready for whatever happens!

Is Your Business Prepared?

2/23/2018 (Permalink)

There has never been a better time for business owners to review their emergency preparedness and business continuity plans than NOW. SERVPRO points to startling statistics like this one to emphasize the importance of advance planning:

  • According to FEMA, as many as 40 percent of businesses never reopen following a major flood disaster.

SERVPRO has developed the Emergency READY Program to help business owners create an Emergency READY Profile (ERP) for their facility, at no charge. The business owner works with SERVPRO of Muskegon to gather document information that will become critical if a disaster strikes. Once the ERP is created, business owners have access to their information 24/7 online and by using SERVPRO’s free smartphone app.

With an ERP in place, SERVPRO’s Disaster Response teams can immediately assess the situation and take the first critical steps to protect employees from harm and property from further damage, setting the business on the road to recovery.

SERVPRO of Muskegon professionals specialize in disaster restoration, cleanup and repair services, helping to remediate damage, making it “Like it never even happened,” for both commercial and residential customers. For more information on the SERVPRO Emergency READY Program, please visit https://ready.SERVPRO.com/home/mobileapp.

Teaming Up to Help You Be Ready

2/8/2017 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO® Franchise System is teaming up with the American Red Cross to help business and homeowners across
the nation get READY for any disaster. The American Red Cross Ready Rating™ program, is a free, web-based program designed to help businesses, organizations and schools become better prepared for emergencies. Through the Ready Rating program website, readyrating.org, property owners complete a 123-point self-assessment of their level of preparedness for weather-related or other emergencies. The Ready Rating assessment also offers tips and best practices to help improve their level of preparedness.

“Through the generosity of SERVPRO®, the Red Cross will help empower workplaces to re-open more quickly after natural or man-made disasters such as water main breaks, medical emergencies, power outages, tornadoes, floods and hurricanes through the Ready Rating Program,” said Tom Heneghan, manager of Business Continuity Programs for Red Cross.

“Up to 40% of businesses never re-open their doors after such disasters; SERVPRO’s partnership will enable more businesses, schools and organizations to become better prepared. We are excited to have SERVPRO join us in community outreach efforts to educate and highlight the
importance of community preparedness in neighborhoods across the country.”

“This partnership just makes perfect sense,” said Rick Isaacson, Executive Vice President of SERVPRO Industries, Inc., “and truly completes the readiness equation for businesses and other property owners.

The Red Cross Ready Rating Program allows individuals to assess their readiness for a disaster, so they can take all necessary steps before disaster strikes to protect their property from damage and loss. But, when disaster does strike, knowing what to do and who to call saves time–and fast response is key to minimizing damage and downtime.

That’s where SERVPRO’s Emergency READY Program can help. Together, these two programs offer maximum peace of mind to businesses and other organizations.” With SERVPRO’s Emergency READY Program, your local SERVPRO® Franchise Professional will establish an Emergency READY Profile® (ERP) for your facility.

The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including emergency contact information, shut-off valve locations and priority areas. In the event of an emergency, the ERP can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility.

The ERP is a no-cost assessment; all it requires is a little time, making it a great value that could save you time and money in the future. The time to prepare for a disaster is before it happens. Taking steps to make your property as secure as possible, then having a plan to deal with the aftermath if disaster does strike is just good business sense.

For more information about SERVPRO’s Emergency Ready program, visit SERVPRO.com/ready. Call SERVPRO of Muskegon & Holland/W. Ottawa Co. to learn how to develop an Emergency READY Profile® for your business and BE READY.

September is National Preparedness Month

9/14/2016 (Permalink)

With September being National Preparedness Month SERVPRO of Muskegon andHolland/ W. Ottawa Co. says this is a great time for business owners to review their emergency preparedness and business continuity plans. SERVPRO points to startling statistics like this one to emphasize the importance of advance planning: according toFEMA, as many as 40 percent of businesses never reopen following a major flood disaster.


“Business owners who think they are prepared for an emergency because exits are clearly marked and fire or flood drills are parts of the regular routine really need to take another look at their preparations,” said Sue Steen, SERVPRO Industries, Inc. chief executive officer. “A comprehensive emergency plan also contains critical information about the location of shut-off valves, fire suppression system controls, emergency contact numbers and more—information that can save emergency responders precious time and help contain damage and minimize injury.”


Because SERVPRO knows the time to create a disaster readiness plan is before you need it, they have developed the SERVPRO Emergency READY Program to help business owners create an Emergency READY Profile (ERP) for their facility, at no charge. The business owner works with SERVPRO of Muskegon and Holland/ W. Ottawa Co. to gather and document information that will become critical if a disaster strikes. Once the ERP is created, business owners have access to their information 24/7 online and by using SERVPRO’s free smartphone app.


“For a business to survive and thrive, it needs to get back to business as soon as possible after a disaster strikes,” said Steen. “With an ERP in place, SERVPRO’s Disaster Response teams can immediately assess the situation and take the first critical steps to protect employees from harm and property from further damage, setting the business on the road to recovery.”


SERVPRO professionals specialize in disaster restoration, cleanup and repair services, helping to remediate damage, making it “Like it never even happened,” for both commercial and residential customers. For more information on the SERVPRO and the SERVPRO Emergency READY Program, please visit https://ready.SERVPRO.com/home/mobileapp.