WRT - Steemer-Onlinewrt stanley steemer university!! 1! introduction) 2! water)intrusion) 6! wrt)overview) 7! categories)ofwater) 9! classes)ofwater)loss) 10! safe)restorers) 11!

WRT STANLEY STEEMER UNIVERSITY

1

INTRODUCTION 2

WATER INTRUSION 6

WRT OVERVIEW 7

CATEGORIES OF WATER 9

CLASSES OF WATER LOSS 10

SAFE RESTORERS 11

GOOD DOCUMENTATION 14

DRY STANDARD 17

PSYCHROMETRIC CALCULATIONS 21

AIR MOVER(AM) TYPES AND APPLICATION 24

DEHUMIDIFIER CALCULATIONS 24

DEHUMIDIFICATION MATH 25

EXTRACT 27

TOOLS OF THE TRADE 28

WHY IS EXTRACTION SO IMPORTANT? 29

A QUICK LOOK AT MICROBIOLOGY 31

EVAPORATE 34

DEHUMIDIFY 36

TYPES OF DEHUMIDIFIERS 37

WHAT TYPE OF DRYING SYSTEM IS BEST? 38

OTHER TYPES OF AIRFLOW MACHINES 40

THE DAMAGE WATER CAN DO 42

WOOD 42

DRYING CEILINGS AND WALLS 46

THE SCIENCE OF DRY 47

3 EXPRESSIONS OF HUMIDITY 48


2

VAPOR PRESSURE (VP) 49

AIRFLOW IMPACT 50

TEMPERATURE’S ROLE 50

DEW POINT 50

PSYCHROMETRY APPLICATION 51

BRINGING IT ALL TOGETHER 53

IICRC FORMS 54

The IICRC reviews course manuals only to verify that each manual covers all of the test questions on the respective course exam, and that the course manual otherwise meets the criteria in the IICRC Policy and Procedures Manual. The IICRC does not otherwise review or approve course manuals for content or technical accuracy. The schools are independent of the IICRC and the responsibility for course manual content and technical accuracy, except as to exam question coverage, remains the responsibility of the respective schools and not the IICRC. Stanley Steemer International,Inc.©2011 All Rights Reserved


3

Introduction This course will span the next three days. We will be uncovering concepts and techniques which apply to Water Damage restoration work. Hands on exercises and demonstrations are built-‐in to provide opportunities for students to make learning and retaining this information more easily. The trick with a course like this is to ENGAGE. If you come each day with an eagerness to learn, then you will. We will spend time on principles of restoration as well as calculations specific to drying projects. You will have many chances to work on group activities with your classmates, as well as self-‐study time. Sufficient breaks will be given throughout the course and are usually no longer than 15 minutes. Restrooms are for use at anytime. Lunch is provided for you and we will break at approximately noon. Be considerate We all understand the need for taking care of business, and phone calls are a normal part of that. Please “silence” your phone and if you must take a call, please do so outside of the classroom environment to avoid disruption to the class. Smoking is permitted only in the designated areas. Remember that this class is being hosted by the location and we should be respectful of their wishes. We encourage you to ask questions and do your best to get clarity on the concepts taught. You are usually not the only one wondering about something, and it helps the rest of the class to learn. Who are you? Please give us some details about yourself. How long have you worked here? Do you have experience in this field? Married? Children? Share anything you would like us to know about you. IICRC info This course is taught according to the IICRC guidelines. A brief IICRC introduction video will be shown to provide information about certification, CECs and Certified Firms. This course manual will contain everything in the examination, but we do not “teach to the test”. It is important that you review and study the course manual and notes each day to prepare for the exam. Also, in the back of this manual, there is


4

information regarding the IICRC. An exam will be given as the last part of this course to gain certification. Paperwork Each day, sign-‐in sheets will need to be completed. This is to prove your attendance in this course. Also, on Day 3, accompanying the exam will be an application packet. These forms are important and must be completed in a specific way. Please write clearly to avoid any delay in the processing of your exam. Upon completion of the paperwork, a test fee of $50 is required in order to continue. Chew on this This course is designed to give you the tools to go into the field and perform quality service. It is overflowing with good information that you can reference for years to come. However, none of it is any good if you don’t understand one important rule as a restorer: Your customer is in distress from water intrusion in their home! What they need is a CARING, SINCERE PROFESSIONAL who can respond quickly and help them in this time. You can score a perfect 100% on the exam and still provide awful service. Think about some of the things in your home for a moment. Do you have anything that you would hate to lose? So do your clients. Be mindful of this at all times during restoration work. Your customer will appreciate it and more projects will be completed smoothly. They don’t care how much you know until they know how much you

care!


5

Your Future As a (soon to be) certified water damage restorer, you are held to a high level of professionalism and expertise. The industry-‐wide recognized document considered to be the Standard of Care in water damage restoration is the IICRC S500 3rd Edition. It encompasses all of the best practices related to water damage work. Using the standard as the guide as it was intended is invaluable to any restorer. The simple idea behind restorative work is to bring the structure as close to pre-‐loss condition as possible. Paying attention to the standard will help you to get there more often. This course is designed with exactly that in mind. As you move forward in your career as a restorer, you are charged with the care of property that belongs to others. You will be shown principles directly from the S500 so that you will be able to successfully complete water damage restoration projects. This course will also prepare you for the next level of IICRC education. The IICRC offers many industry-‐relevant courses to promote better service, professionalism and understanding within specific fields. As well, this industry is ever changing and the IICRC continues to revise and update instruction requirements. Beyond classes, you are encouraged to research and learn more about your field. This is a good start!


6

Water intrusion

Frozen water pipe bursts

Rivers flood Natural disasters bring heavy rain Fire causes suppression “sprinkler” activation Dishwasher breaks

Plumbing backs up These are some of the reasons we are called for work. With time you will experience a wide range of water intrusion. A very important lesson you will learn is that:

Water will find a way.

Most of the time, it isn’t the visible water, but that which we CAN’T SEE that presents the biggest challenge. You will be given the opportunity to use different devices and instruments to assist in finding the invisible water. Thoroughness prevails in water damage work. You must check everywhere for possible moisture affected areas. Doing this will keep you ahead of the project. If you fail to find all moisture, you are inviting problems into the job.


7

WRT overview Let’s think about this in terms of logical flow. If you are to dry a structure successfully, you must consider, and follow, a strategic plan. In order to do that you must understand how water affects everything in the building. You also need to understand how time affects water. Here is a way to look at it:

1. Inspecting the structure is critical in identifying all moisture-‐affected areas, material and air. Then you can make a drying plan.

2. Extraction follows to remove as much water as possible. 3. Any water left behind must be evaporated (converted into vapor). 4. Once in the air, dehumidification removes water vapor. 5. Temperature affects evaporation, so it must be managed.

Inspect

Extract

Evaprorate

Dehumidify Control Temperature


8

Okay, so now you are ready to hit the road and start drying jobs, right? Not so fast! Before you can even think about performing a thorough inspection, we have to get you up to speed on some principles. We can use the illustration as our flowchart. Let’s start at the beginning. First and foremost, we must be prepared for the initial call for service. This isn’t about simply getting an address, name and number. Remember, the person on the other end of the line is not exactly in the best emotional state. They want a company who is able to respond quickly, reducing drying time, damage and stress. We can begin the restoration process right over the phone. It all boils down to first impression and our ability to remain calm, even if they aren’t. Some pointers for a smooth call: Assure them that you will do everything possible to help Ask good questions. Do you know how long it has been wet? Has the intrusion source been located and stopped? Does anyone in the home suffer from allergies or have an immune deficient condition? Will an insurance company be involved. If so, have you called them? These questions help you to gain information as well as engage the client. This provides a sense of action and sincerity on your part. You should bring the call to a close by explaining the process and things they can expect during this experience.


9

CATEGORIES OF WATER Describe the level of contamination present in the water loss

area. Determining which materials should be dried, as well as safety decisions can be made when the category is known.

Category 1-‐ This category of intrusion poses no significant threat of sickness from ingestion, inhalation or dermal exposure. It is considered “clean” water. A Category 1 water intrusion normally involves sanitary water supply sources. As a rule of thumb, 72 hours is the maximum time that a loss can remain Category 1. Also, odors present could be an indication that the loss is NOT Category 1. Further investigation is necessary.

Category 2-‐ This intrusion does carry a significant risk of chemical, biological, and/or physical contamination. Toilet bowl overflows containing pathogens, waterbed leaks, aquariums, dishwasher discharge, washing machine leaks and any water intrusion from below grade are considered Category 2. In this loss, carpet cushion must always be removed and disposed of, and carpet must be thoroughly cleaned with hot water extraction. Special steps should be taken to clean the areas prior to continuing drying.

Category 3-‐ This intrusion is from a grossly unsanitary source, carrying pathogens, or when water has been in the structure for more than 120 hours. Toilet water coming from beyond the trap or septic system, as well as floodwaters would be Category 3 losses. When dealing with sewage in a Category 3 loss, health risks are elevated. This must be the most important consideration. Communication is critical in a Category 3 situation! If a materially interested party disagrees with carpet removal, the decision to stop work may be necessary until the conflict can be resolved. Carpet, cushion, and any other affected porous materials must be contained for proper disposal.

Note: As you can see, the longer water dwells in the structure, the greater decline in conditions. Microbial growth can begin in as few as 48 hours in the right conditions. Restorers must keep in mind that the single most efficient way to prevent, or slow microbial growth is to SPEED DRY the affected materials. Once we know what kind of water has intruded, we need to think about how it has impacted the building and materials initially.


10

CLASSES OF WATER LOSS Describe the rate of evaporation. Normally, we base the

equipment needs and setup on the class of the loss. Class 1 – This loss involves the least amount of water, absorption

and evaporation. There is very little, if any, wet carpet and/or cushion (underlay).

Class 2 – This loss involves a large amount of water, absorption and evaporation by highly porous materials. Water has saturated entire areas of carpet and cushion and has migrated up walls less than 24”. Water remains in structural materials like plywood, drywall and concrete.

Class 3 – This involves the greatest amount of water, absorption and evaporation. Water may have come from overhead through ceilings, saturating insulation, walls, carpet, cushion, and subfloor.

Class 4 – These losses present specialty drying conditions. Longer drying times and special techniques are necessary to address bound or trapped water. This is due to the low rate of evaporation characteristics of the saturated materials. Hardwood floors, stone, brick, and plaster often require low specific humidity.

Note: Classes of loss are really only helpful for Day 1. Why? Now that we have some idea of the type of water loss we have,

dealing with it safely should be the number one objective.


11

Safe Restorers As explained in the previous section, there is a risk at ALL water

loss projects. As a restorer, one of your PRIMARY concerns is to prevent, identify and manage potential safety risks. Obviously, it depends on the situation, but you must consider safety precautions constantly. Injury from improper techniques or lack of safety protocol is completely preventable. Effective restoration firms have specific safety programs in place to protect employees from unnecessary exposure. On going instruction and coaching is the only way to ensure compliance and prevention.

Effective company safety programs include:

Frequently overlooked risk-‐ When standing water is present at

Class 1 or 2 losses, slip and fall accidents are possibly the most common hazard. Restorers must use caution on even the simplest projects and educate occupants of the risks. Prior to starting the job, performing a walk through with occupants is a good idea. It affords the restorer an opportunity to point out potential risks.

Water is heavy! It weighs in at 8.34 lbs. per gallon. One cubic foot of water contains 7.48 gallons. That’s over 62 lbs. of water. Many water losses involve intrusion from above. Trapped water in a ceiling could cause a serious bump on your head.

Encouraging good health-‐ Contact with infectious diseases is a very real possibility in water loss work. All active restoration employees should consider consultation with their Primary Health Care Provider (PHCP) for immunization information. Personal protective equipment, or PPE, is a huge part of a safe project. Protecting the respiratory systems of restorers shall include restorers undergoing medical evaluation, proper training, and fit testing for respirators. Exposure to pathogenic agents, microorganisms, and other risks can be minimized with the proper PPE. It is important to match the PPE to the risk. A “paper” mask respirator simply will not offer much protection in a serious Category 3 sewage backup water loss. During a restoration job, technicians may discover microbial growth. When this happens, they must use appropriate protective measures. You also must think in terms of potentially making the matter worse. Circulating air where visible contamination is present will increase the possibility of contaminating unaffected areas. If growth is


12

located, a good practice is to close off airflow of any kind and contain the growth. This can be done with heavy plastic sheeting secured with tape to completely cover the area.

Emergency service providers should be prepared with PPE that provide from all potential exposure to the body. These items can mean the difference between success and injury:

Hard Hat Rubber Boots Chemical Resistant Rubber Gloves Fire Extinguisher First aid kits Leather Gloves Tyvek Suits Knee Pads Vapor Respirator

Chemical agents-‐ Many times, restorers need to use chemicals to

treat surfaces. You must be mindful of the surroundings when applying any product. Normally, the guidelines for safe use can be found on the label. Restorers must follow label directions when using government -‐registered biocides (agents formulated to kill microbes). Most biocides on the market will suggest an application rate for maximum effectiveness. Since the product is to be discharged from a sprayer, it is recommended that animals be removed from the application site during application.

Electricity-‐ Until wireless drying equipment is introduced, restorers must rely on corded air movers, dehumidifiers, AFDs, etc. to get the job done. That said, electrical safety is a priority. Restorers should be aware of the condition of all electrical devices throughout the project. Air movers should be inspected at each use. They should be equipped with a 3-‐prong plug, as well as safety screens covering inlets and outlets. All drying equipment should be in good working condition. If at any time a piece of equipment is found to have frayed wires or damaged cords, it must be removed immediately and repaired properly. It is also a good idea to keep equipment maintenance logs. Routine, scheduled upkeep of equipment prolongs its useful and safe operational life.

HAZMAT-‐ It is not a rarity during a water loss project to come into direct contact with regulated hazardous materials (requiring strict compliance when handling). Two of the most common materials used in and on many homes are Asbestos and Lead-‐based paint. EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) guidelines have been established to promote the safe, disturbance demolition, and/or disposal of these materials. The ANSI/IICRC S500 3rd edition refers to water damage


13

restoration projects involving hazardous or regulated materials as SPECIAL SITUATIONS. Restoration safety programs are REQUIRED to show compliance when working in buildings where these substances are found. Reference material in the index of this manual will provide information on these materials.

Third party assessment for safety-‐ When restorers encounter a situation that is beyond the normal scope of work, or when potential health risks are elevated, they may require an Indoor Environmental Professional. The ANSI/IICRC S500 refers to this person as IEP. These are highly qualified personnel with expertise in assessment of interior areas of structure. They are often invaluable in providing insight to restorers and interested parties in water losses. Many times, restorers encounter microbial growth and/or raw sewage in Category 3 intrusion where occupants are considered high-‐risk individuals. IEPs can conduct pre-‐restoration or pre-‐remediation assessment. Another advantage to using IEPs is that they are independent parties who conduct objective testing and analysis. Their reports can be posted on site to inform of possible indoor risks. This is especially helpful in particularly sensitive projects.


14

Good documentation Once the category and class have been established and safety considerations have been made, we can begin to build the project file. This project file starts and ends with complete involvement of those materially interested or responsible for the property. Before we can begin work, we must secure a signed written agreement. It should detail the entire scope of work for the drying project. Each drying job is unique. It is necessary to specify payment terms and those responsible on the contract. You will have time to work on building project files throughout this course.

Inspect

Extract

Evaprorate



15

It starts with recording initial atmospheric meter readings.

Prior to entering the building, take readings outside. This will help us to compare against the affected areas.

Remember, we are looking for all possible moisture. Once inside, it is critical that we take good readings Simply performing a “digital” (hand) test on a wall or floor isn’t going to cut it. We need precision instruments designed to detect moisture. Several types of meters are necessary to find moisture.

Thermo Hygrometer-‐ o This is the meter you will use to read atmospheric conditions at the beginning of the job.

o It is a digital instrument that can show air temperature and relative humidity (RH). Some can read GPP and DP.

o You must allow for acclimation of the environment it is reading.

o Be careful to avoid humidity from your breath and skin o Pay attention to battery

Moisture sensor-‐

o This tool can be helpful in determining water migration perimeter

o Can penetrate materials o An audible beep sounds when both contacts encounter moisture and light

o IS NOT A METER -‐ Cannot show MC of materials o Sensitive enough to detect urine salts

Non-‐Penetrating (Non-‐Invasive) Moisture Meter-‐

o Is used to detect moisture in materials without damage with “beep”

o Can detect moisture on wood floor below vinyl o Best tool used to find moisture behind ceramic tile o Reads level of moisture absorbing into walls or other porous and semi-‐porous materials

o Has two capacitor “pads”, should be held horizontally on walls for accuracy


16

o Moisture Meters assist with DRYING GOAL Meter has 3 settings depending on material: 1. Wood-‐ (Can read to ½” maximum) 2. Drywall-‐ (3/4” maximum) 3. Plaster-‐ (1/4” maximum) Non-‐ penetrating meters will beep if they are used over metal materials, such as corner bead and nails. Pay attention as you meter the area. Note: This meter cannot be used to read the air conditions.

Digital cameras-‐

o Are used to support documentation and readings o Take pictures of building, materials, and meter readings throughout the job

o Photos help when making notes on the job file, eliminating the need to remember details.

o Pre-‐existing damage can also be documented with a camera Thermal imaging devices-‐

o Great tool for showing temperature levels and change across surfaces

o Data can be stored or uploaded to file Penetrating moisture meter

o With pins, these meter are capable of detecting moisture in porous materials

o Hammer probe attachments can be uses to check different depths of wood flooring

o Hammer probe will cause holes that will require repair


17

DRY STANDARD

Once metering is sufficient, you are able to determine the dry standard. Take readings in areas known to be dry, or at an acceptable range of equilibrium moisture content of materials. The dry standard is the level to which materials need to be dried. This information is what you use to calculate equipment needs, drying system setup and basic scope of the project. A dry standard of all materials is the most reliable method in creating a drying goal. The project is incomplete until this goal has been met. Monitor the goal throughout the project. Continue to dry the affected material until moisture meter readings are the same as the goal. This is the single most effective and reliable course to ensure true drying is happening.

Moisture content (MC) recording

Use the MC spreadsheet throughout the project to ensure proper drying of all materials. By logging each set of readings, you will be able to track progress on each material you are drying. Air records alone will not prove that you have done your job. You must supply these records at the very least. You can assign each meter site a different number, letter or symbol for quick identification. Subsets of each site can reflect different levels up a wall or surface. This helps to track drying of wicked moisture. Do everything possible to use the same meters each time. They differ across brands. Dry all material to within 4% of EMC. With respect to wood material, continue to dry down to below 16% MC to reduce risk of fungal growth. Wood rot is supported above 20% MC.


18


19


20

Make notes and be thorough as you record all initial atmospheric data. Draw accurate scaled moisture map(s) of each area. Moisture maps should include dimensions, and detailed area information. Offsets, closets, bay windows, etc. should all be clearly drawn on the map. Once you illustrate the area, the map can be used to show equipment placement. Using symbols for each item, draw your drying system.


21

Psychrometric calculations

When you are conducting your moisture and atmospheric readings, they are used to calculate specific humidity. It is stated in Grains per pound (GPP). This is the grains of moisture per pound of air or how much water the air is holding. Using a psychrometric chart, you can determine GPP, and dew point (DP). These are critical data and will be used as the basis for the drying job.


22

Record all readings, construct a moisture map and atmospheric records, then you can figure out how much equipment will be necessary. As stated before, inspect, then extract, then evaporate, dehumidify, and control temp. For extraction of standing water, it is fairly basic. You need to calculate dimensions of the affected area. Calculate cubic footage (LxWxH). Then multiply cubic footage by the 7.48 (gallons of water per cubic foot) to arrive at the total volume of water. We will get to extraction tools later in this manual.

How many gallons of water are in a depth of 1ft, 3inches in a living room with dimensions of 22x18?


23

To promote evaporation, you must establish airflow. Using an Equipment Calculation Worksheet to accurately determine what will do the job.


24

Air mover (AM) Types and application Centifugal

• Should be placed every 10 to 14 linear feet along walls • 15 to 45 degree angle • Counter clockwise configuration draws air from center • No more than 1 AM per 50-‐60ft2

Axial Fan • Every 10-‐16 linear feet • 15-‐45 degree angle • No more than 1 AM per 50-‐60 ft2

For floating method • Can be used to dry carpet by direct ambient air closely to the surface.

• Edges must be secured to prevent flapping • At least 1 AM per 300 ft2 or area Note: Class 2 or 3 losses require more aggressive drying. Use more AM in these cases. Place the AM in such a way that inlets are not blocked.

After we calculate AM needs, we must figure initial dehumidification requirements. This can be done with a simple formula chart.

Dehumidifier Calculations Step 1 – Calculate the volume (cubic feet) of the affected area. Step 2 – Determine the type of dehumidifier that will be used. Step 3 – Find the Class and dehumidifier type number to be used from the chart provided or from below. Step 4 – Use the number from the chart and the volume to work the appropriate formula Step 5 – Use the equipment listings to figure the appropriate number of units that will be needed on the job site.


25

Step 1 Length x Width x Height = Cubic Feet (ft³) Add ft³ of All Areas = Total Cubic Feet (ft³)

Step 2 Dehumidifier Type

Conventional Refrigerant

Low Grain (LGR)

Refrigerant

Desiccant Dehumidifier

Step 3 Class of Water ↓ ↓ ↓ Class 1 100 100 1 ACH Class 2 40 50 2 ACH Class 3 30 40 3 ACH Class 4 N/A 50 2 ACH Step 4

Dehumidifier Formula

ft³ ÷ Class = Pints

ft³ x Class ÷ 60

=

Dehumidification math: 1. What is the AHAM capacity requirement for conventional refrigerants in a Class 3 loss in a space of 10,000 ft3? _______________ 2. How many 144 pint rated LGR dehumidifiers do you initially need at a Class 2 loss with 6,000 ft3? ________________________________ 3. What is the initial 115-‐pint rated conventional refrigerant dehumidifier requirement for class 1 loss on 12,000ft3? ___________________________ 4. On a 11,000 ft3 class 4 loss with 12 foot ceilings, for desiccant dehumidification, what is the initial CFM requirement?________________________ AFDs Air Filtration Devices are often equipped with HEPA “air-‐scrubbing” filters. AFDs will control aerosolized soil and contaminants during the drying job. To calculate AFD requirements, you will need to:

Calculate volume of the affected area. • Use a minimum of 4 ACH

Refer to the chart below for units needed


26

Manufacturer - Type/Size AHAM Pints/liters Units CFM Amperage/Voltage

Dri-Eaz - Drizair 80 conventional refrigerant 40 pints/18 liters 150 cfm 8 amps/110-120v

Ebac - BD-80-XE conventional refrigerant 40 pints/18 liters 360 cfm 8 amps/110-120v

Dry Air - Dry Pro 5000 Deluxe conventional refrigerant 54 pints/26 liters 200 cfm 6 amps/110-120v

Dri-Eaz - Drizair 110-pint conventional refrigerant 58 pints/29 liters 150 cfm 5 amps/110-120v

Dri-Eaz - Drizair 1200 conventional refrigerant 64 pints/31 liters 227 cfm 6.4 amps/110-120v

Dry Air - Dry Pro 7000 conventional refrigerant 70 pints/33 liters 200 cfm 6 amps/110-120v

Dri-Eaz – Evolution low-grain refrigerant (LGR) 70 pints/33 liters 160 cfm 5 amps/110-120v

Phoenix – R175 low-grain refrigerant (LGR) 92 pints/44 liters 230 cfm 6.1 amps/110-120v

Dri-Eaz – Drizair 200 conventional refrigerant 108 pints/51 liters 450 cfm 12 amps/110-120v

Ebac Orian low-grain refrigerant (LGR) 100 pints/47 liters 450 cfm 8 amps/110-120v

Dri-Eaz – Drizair 2000 low-grain refrigerant (LGR) 110 pints/52 liters 320 cfm 8 amps/110-120v

Phoenix – 200 Max low-grain refrigerant (LGR) 124 pints/61 liters 250 cfm 7.2 amps/110-120v

Phoenix 200 HT low-grain refrigerant (LGR) 140 pints/66 liters 325 cfm 7.5 amps/110-120v

Dry Air – Atlantic low-grain refrigerant (LGR) 140 pints/66 liters 330 cfm 7.5 amps/110-120v

Dri-Eaz – Drizair 2400 low-grain refrigerant (LGR) 148 pints/70 liters 365 cfm 11 amps/110-120v

Phoenix – 300 low-grain refrigerant (LGR) 176 pints/83 liters 540 cfm 12 amps/110-120v

Dri-Eaz – Dritec Pro 150 desiccant 27.5 pints/13 liters 88 cfm 8.7 amps/110-120v

Dri-Eaz – Dritec 150 desiccant 48 pints/23 liters 110 cfm 10 amps/110-120v

Dri-Eaz – Dritec 325 desiccant 135 pints/64 liters 250 cfm 16 amps /220-230v

Phoenix – D385 portable desiccant 116 pints/55 liters 385 cfm 22 amps (11 amps/cord)/ 110-120v

Phoenix – Arctic Max Portable Air Conditioner (1 Ton) 100 pints/47 liters 430 cfm 11.7 amps/110-120v

Phoenix - Mini-Guardian HEPA System (AFD) N/A 415 cfm 2 amps/110-120v

Dri-Eaz – DefendAir HEPA 500 (AFD) N/A 500 cfm 3 amps/110-120v

Abatement – Mini-Predator HEPA (AFD) N/A 600 cfm 2 amps/110-120v

Abatement – HEPA-AIR PAS600 (AFD) N/A 600 cfm 2 amps/110-120v


Abatement – Predator HEPA (AFD) N/A 1000 cfm 3.5 amps/110-120v

Phoenix – Guardian HEPA System (AFD) N/A 1400 cfm 12 amps/110-120v





27

Extract

Estimate of work is explained. Consent and payment authorization have been secured. Without a written contract, work should not begin. Dry standard is understood. It looks like we can begin work!

Our next major step in the drying project is Extraction. However, we cannot overlook the contents in the affected areas. Here are some things to work out:

• Furniture may have a finish or metal legs, which can bleed, swell, split or rust. Pads or blocks must be used to lift furniture to avoid damage

• Using sliders or guides will reduce stress on moisture affected furniture and secure skirts

• When it is feasible, remove furniture from the affected area altogether.

• Drapes should be gently hung away from work area.

Inspect

Extract

Evaporate



28

• Paper based materials such as books, magazines, and documents should be freeze-‐dried quickly (usually within the first 24 hours)

o Removing moisture from these materials can be achieved through a process called sublimation. This is when solids change directly to vapor, skipping the liquid step, thus preserving the paper.

Tools of the trade Now that we have evaluated and protected the contents, we can begin extraction. Many tools are available for performing extraction of water. A good rule to follow is to choose a tool with maximum hose diameter while minimizing hose length. This will promote greater vacuum efficiency. Here are some types of extraction equipment out there:

Light wand

This tool is used for initial extraction to contain migrating water. It is quite operator friendly. Light wands are extremely effective in glue down carpet.

Weighted Extraction Wand This tool creates a higher level of lift through a superior seal on carpet. It is capable of removing far more water than light wand.

Stationary Extraction Equipment These tools are designed to work under the weight of the operator. A vacuum hose is attached and the carpet and cushion is compressed. This encourages water to flow to the tool. It is much slower process, but can still be effective.

Hard Surface Equipment These are tools designed to remove standing water from tiled, wood, vinyl and non-‐carpet surfaces. They are fitted with rubber boots to protect the surface from scratches.

Self –Propelled, Automatic Extractors

These units can be driven and maneuver very well. They can turn in a relatively small radius. They are excellent for in-‐place drying on a large area.


29

Truck Mounted Extraction Units

These units usually generate great vacuum efficiency. They are equipped with an automatic pump discharge system. Normally, they hold much longer hose than other units.

Portable extraction units

They are equipped with a tank to collect water. They must be manually dumped when full. They are ideal for jobs that cannot be reached by truck-‐mounted units.

Pumps

Submersible pumps can be used to move large quantities of water in areas such as basements or crawlspaces. They can deliver as much as 3000 gallons per hour. Their low profile design allows them to be placed in small spaces. The inlet is usually on the bottom, allowing them to pump down to less than 1” deep. Remember, the volume of standing water (in gallons) = volume (LxWxH) x7.48. Use this formula to decide which extraction method to use.

Why is extraction so important?

If we do not extract the water first, then we have to rely on evaporation/dehumidification to remove it. Let’s think about this for a moment. You can extract roughly 60 gallons per minute, with the most efficient extractors. If you are trying to reduce drying time, then extraction is a must. At peak performance the most efficient dehumidifier can only remove about 32 gallons per day! That puts extraction somewhere around 1200 times faster at removing water. Extraction dramatically reduces the need for evaporation, which influences the total drying time. Without extraction, you should not have a very positive outlook with respect to the materials and contents. It would literally take days or even weeks to dry with evaporation alone. Also, it is critical to perform thorough extraction. Many passes with the extractor are required to remove maximum moisture. Keep in mind that


30

Every drop of water you do not extract must be evaporated!

On carpeted surfaces, efficiency is key. However, you must pay attention to signs of delamination. This is the separation of primary and secondary backings on tufted carpet. Some factors contributing to delamination are: Improper installation Improper handling

Incorrect cushion Prolonged saturation Overly aggressive extraction You must be mindful of the condition of the carpet prior to choosing an extraction technique. If its integrity has been compromised an improper technique can cause greater damage. If delamination is discovered, it is important to inform materially interested parties that replacement is necessary. You will encounter different methods of installation of the carpet. It may have been directly glued to the floor with latex. You may discover carpet that has been installed over other carpet. The most common installation method is stretched in. This is tufted carpet installed over cushion and secured to tackless strips along the walls. You can perform a “corner inspection” to get important information about the carpet. This inspection uses a knee kicker and carpet awl to disengage the carpet from the strip. Then the awl lifts the corner away without damage. A closer look will tell you what you need to know. You can also inspect areas where carpet meets a different surface, such as vinyl flooring. Sometimes you will discover hardwood flooring under carpeted areas. The carpet must be removed in this case in order to dry the wood properly. If the carpet can be saved, then it is to be dried in another area or off site. Drying the hardwood is far more important than carpet! Wood floors often require specialty techniques. Upon restoration of the hardwood, it is recommended that it has appropriate acclimation time before it is refinished.


31

As the extraction process continues, we must be on the lookout for damage that was there before we started work. If pre-‐existing damage is discovered, you must document details of the damage, take good photos, and contact interested parties immediately. When carpet looks suspicious, it may be necessary to cut carpet so you can inspect the backing and subfloor. An important rule to follow is that you should only cut at the seams when absolutely necessary. Take your time and try to cut through the seam as evenly as you can. This saves a great deal of time during reinstallation.

A quick look at microbiology While inspecting, you may notice microbial amplification. If you

suspect mold to be present, you must take a few precautions. 1. Air Movers promote cross contamination and possible

spread of the growth. Turn off any airflow devices until contained or corrected.

2. Avoid contaminating unaffected areas 3. Don the proper PPE to protect against risk

Some good information on microorganisms

Living things are divided into five distinct kingdoms: Plant, Animal, Bacteria, Protista and Fungi. FUNGI-‐ This kingdom includes molds, mildews, mushrooms and yeasts. Mold is a fungus that develops and colonizes on damp organic, especially cellulosic, materials. Some molds develop defense mechanisms, which are potentially deadly to humans. These substances called mycotoxins are produced by toxigenic molds. BACTERIA-‐ This is a kingdom of single celled organisms that are capable of extreme reproduction when food and temperature are ideal. Endotoxins produced by gram-‐negative bacteria are capable of causing illness in humans, including death.


32

VIRUSES are organisms that rely on a living host to thrive. Many virus strains can be present in water-‐affected areas. They can cause major sickness and threaten the lives of humans. Microbial management measures Physical removal of the source is the only way to truly control microorganisms. Clean up the area prior to treatment. Use of chemicals is only recommended when it is absolutely necessary for control. Drying a Category 1 water intrusion rapidly is the best way to reduce or retard microbial growth, instead of resorting to chemical application. If it is deemed necessary to use chemicals, it is recommended to gain customer authorization. Then apply the product according to label directions (this is especially important for EPA-‐registered products). Remember to evacuate all animals and occupants during application of antimicrobials. Which does what? Sterilizers are products that eliminate at a rate of 100% all forms of microbial organisms (bacteria, virus, fungi). However, there is a difference between sterilizing and applying a sterilizer. Proper rate of application, mix ratio and the porosity of the material being treated are all factors. Biostats limit or control growth of a substance to which it applied. **STAT = LIMIT OR CONTROL** Biocides kill any microbial substance to which they are applied. **CIDE = KILL** Sanitizers reduce the microbial level to a safe range as defined by public health requirements. Things to remember: For maximum effectiveness, treatment of only clean surfaces is recommended. Label directions MUST BE FOLLOWED. Only refer to claims made by the product manufacturer stated on the label as to its effectiveness. Many antimicrobials use formulations of Glutaraldehydes Quaternary Ammonium Compounds Phenols Alcohols Strong oxidizers (bleaches)


33

With all that is contained in the water and materials in a water intrusion, you must consider that all of the water being extracted has to end up somewhere. Pathogenic agents, microbial organisms, soils, chemicals from wet materials, and antimicrobial chemicals are all being extracted. So what should you do to be certain that it is headed to the correct place? Find a way to discharge the wastewater into a sanitary sewer system. It is wise to know what is mandatory by local, state or provincial laws. Wastewater treatment facilities are also an option. This is not really specific to the category of water loss. The S500 3rd Edition states that Category 2 or 3 water is to be disposed in a sanitary sewer. Just do it right. If you started with a category 1 loss, the only way to tell what is coming out of your discharge line is testing. You don’t have that kind of time. Assume it is all at least category 2 and discharge it accordingly.


34

Evaporate Extraction is complete. Contents and materials have been protected and now it is time to get equipment into the structure and setup. Time is of the essence to put together the drying system. Airflow is critical to the drying system, so you will want to install air movers as soon as you can. Evaporation is promoted and drying time is significantly reduced.

Air movers

When using air movers, it is important to remember these key points: • They should be equipped with 3 prong ground plugs. • They should be in good working condition. • During placement, do not block intakes. • Clean the machines regularly.

Inspect

Extract

Evaporate Dehumidify

Control Temperature


35

Types of air moving equipment Centrifugal fans are very common in restoration projects because they are versatile. They can be used to exhaust air or to dry carpet. An issue is power consumption. At 4 to 5 Amps, they can create a serious draw on the system. Axial fans are capable of moving about twice as much air as centrifugal fans. They can be high or low pressure type. The advantage to a low pressure axial is the lower amp draw of 1.5-‐2.5 amps. They promote a more efficient drying system. High pressure axial fans are normally used with ducting to move air under pressure. They require 9-‐10 amps of current. They are often used as negative air machines (NAM) when microbial growth is present. Specialty wall and cavity drying machines are used when it is necessary to create pressure differentials to encourage evaporation behind walls, hardwood floors, and behind cabinets. Many systems are available on the open market, which come with attachments for theses specialty purposes.


36

Dehumidify Air movement has been established. This means that evaporation has begun. Liquid is changing to vapor and it must be removed from the affected air. FAST!

Understanding Dehumidification Basically, these machines are taking vapor from the air to an acceptable RH for living conditions. This is somewhere between 30 and 50% in most areas. Units are tested to standards in order to state dehumidifier performance. The Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) uses test conditions of 800 F at 60% RH for a 24 hour period to determine and record total pints removed. Remember that if the rate of evaporation exceeds the rate of dehumidification, there is a significant risk of microbial amplification and secondary damage.

Inspect

Extract

Evaporate Dehumidify

Control Temperature


37

Types of dehumidifiers

Refrigerants The principle behind this type of machine is condensation. Air moves through a cold evaporator coil, dropping the temperature below the DP. Water develops and drips into a pan. That water is then pumped away through a hose. Before exiting the unit, the air passes over a hot condenser coil. This produces a warm air output. And what do we know about warmer air? That’s right. It encourages efficient drying. Optimal operational temperature is between 70 and 90 degrees. Below 68 degrees, you will notice a decline in performance. There are 3 types of refrigerant dehumidifiers.

1. Consumer grade units are available to homeowners. They have low capacity for water removal. Ice forms on coils below 68 degrees. These machines are not designed for large areas or restoration projects.

2. Conventional refrigerants are capable of removing larger quantities of vapor from the air volume. They can work down to 33 degrees but also perform best from 70 to 90 degrees. They employ a hot gas bypass defrost system. One drawback to conventional refrigerants is that they are only capable of removing moisture down to around 55 GPP.

3. Low Grain Refrigerants (LGR) are capable of lowering RH to 30% at 80 Degrees. LGRs also remove significantly more water vapor than conventional refrigerants. LGRs can go to around 34 GPP. They also employ hot gas bypass.

From an electrical draw perspective, LGR dehumidifiers are the most energy efficient because they can remove greater amounts of moisture with less consumption.

Quiz: Which atmospheric condition would cause you to choose

refrigerant dehumidification?

850F/ 73% RH or 500 F/ 35%RH Desiccants Adsorption is the concept behind desiccant dehumidification. That’s right. ADSORPTION. Air moving through these machines enters the intake and is directed over a wheel (honeycomb design). A coating of silica gel covers the wheel. The adsorbent gel attracts moisture from the


38

air. Latent heat increases the temperature of the air as it passes through a reactivation chamber. There, the air is pushed through the wheel to release trapped water from the gel. Then the air is pumped outside of the building. Key points on desiccants:

o Can bring RH down to less than 10% o Lowest GPP capability o Creates the lowest VP o Operate from 0 – 104 deg. o Need cool dryer air inlet conditions for peak performance o Are used when project poses challenge of moisture removal o Excellent for drying: Wood flooring Paper goods (books, docs)

Brick Cabinets, wall units For example, desiccant dehumidification would be ideal in drying a crawlspace when outdoor temperature is 45 degrees and heat is not an option. This type of dehumidifier easily processes cool ambient air.

What type of drying system is best?

Open Using outside air to reduce indoor humidity is referred to as an open drying system. You must consider the possibility of making it worse. Open drying systems will work when the outdoor temperature and RH are lower than that of the affected areas. Use psychrometric findings to base your decision. Exhaust fans or open windows would be beneficial only when the psychrometry supports it. Think about the customer when making this decision. Ask yourself a few questions prior to using an open drying system. How much energy will be lost? Are the GPP and DP favorable? Is it safe to leave the building open? Will weather affect setup?


39

Closed Closed drying systems are the most common. This system involves using airflow, dehumidifiers and science to control an environment. Rapid drying can be achieved through evaporation, and dehumidification or ventilation. You must be accurate in your calculations for equipment needs in order to be successful. Promoting evaporation and dehumidification balance is critical in drying without fungal growth risk. You should consider this system when outdoor temperature is low, below 30 degrees. If there is a challenge securing the building, closed systems are a good choice. Also, if your psychrometry shows GPP is higher outside than inside, this system is necessary.

Sometimes drying systems can involve both types during a project. If conditions become favorable, it is effective to temporarily open a closed system. This allows you to take advantage of the conditions outside of the area. As you can see, there are options when drying structure, and each has a specific benefit at certain times. Regardless of system type, you should strive to setup a science-‐based drying system with daily readings of all atmospheric conditions and equipment performance.


40

Other types of airflow machines Air conditioning units can be utilized as temperature control devices. They work on evaporator coils and as air passes over, it is cooled and passes out at lower temperatures. Do not confuse air conditioning units with LGRs. AC units can actually work against a project in some cases. LGR units can condense water at much lower coil temperatures, which promotes dehumidification. AC units can also run continuously, promoting higher RH and reaching DP. Secondary damage could result. It is wise to use these machines for temperature only. Heating systems are particularly useful in a drying structure. They come in many sizes and designs. These machines can literally “bake” a structure to remove moisture. After thorough extraction direct heat application should be combined with controlled airflow and temperature to dry concrete. Trapped water below flooring, or in crawlspace situations where heat can be directed from below can be dried efficiently with heating systems. Also, direct heated airflow and low humidity air can enhance drying of wet wood substrates covered by stone or tile. Be careful to manage temperature throughout the project

Inspect

Extract

Evaporate

Dehumidify

Control Temperature


41

to avoid damage related to extreme heat. Heat can assist with improving temperature conditions of a structure. For example, in a basement where indoor temperature is 36 degrees, it would be necessary to use supplemental heating along with dehumidification for drying. Air Filtration Devices (AFD) are simply air processing units capable of removing particulate contaminants. High Efficiency Particulate air (HEPA) units provide a significant level of air “scrubbing”, filtering 99.97% and down to .3 microns. AFDs can act as NAMs to exhaust air from affected areas. Their use is common in water loss work. AFDs are equipped with a 3-‐stage filtration system (Primary, Secondary, and HEPA filters). Ozone generators can be used for deodorization work. They are common in fire and smoke damaged areas. They process oxygen (O2) in and convert it to ozone (O3), an oxygen radical. It is highly effective at destroying odors. The issues with ozone gas it that it is potentially lethal to humans. Prolonged exposure to it can lead to death. Electricity All of this equipment is going to need electricity to power it. Lets look at some important points on electrical systems. Portable power-‐ In a flood scenario where power is completely unavailable, it is necessary to use portable generators. Many sizes of generator are available and can get you up and running with a few gallons of gasoline. Diesel models may be the way to go if you plan on longer running duration. Power distribution units can be invaluable when using excess drying equipment. Sometimes called spider boxes, they allow you to tap into 220-‐volt outlet and deliver multiple 110V power outlets, depending on the model. They keep the guesswork out of circuits. These units also allow equipment to run continuously, even when other circuits are being used in the building.


42

When working with electrical equipment, it is wise to error on the side of caution. Calculate electrical demands of equipment on a circuit. Give yourself a 20% cushion on amps needed. Rooms usually are designed on 1 or 2 circuits. If the system cannot deliver the amps, then consider a spider box. Avoid using small gauge extension cords. 12 gauge or heavier is recommended to prevent voltage drop.

The damage water can do Materials in the building react differently to moisture. As we covered earlier, water will find a way, either in liquid or gas form. If it has to go through materials, then it will. Many building materials are rated with what is known as Permeance factor. This measures how much water vapor will pass through a solid material in one hour. A rating below 1.0 would indicate a barrier. Terms describing permeance usually refer to the porosity of a material:

o Non-‐porous material will have a factor of less than 1.0 (laminates, paint)

o Semi-‐porous material allows moisture to pass through slowly (concrete, hardwood)

o Highly porous readily accepts moisture. Also readily releases it. (Carpet, cushion)

WOOD You will encounter wood materials on almost every drying job. It is critical that you know what happens when water and time get involved. We can start with the structural components of wood. When it is forming, wood cells develop cellular walls. This is how the plant processed nutrients and water during its life.


43

When wood material is moisture affected, it retains the water in two forms: Bound water becomes trapped within the cellular walls. This can be as much as 30% MC. Free water is exactly that. Wood can reach as much as 200% MC with all but 30% being free water. The type of wood is a factor in its ability to hold water and will vary. When dealing with hardwood flooring systems, you should be prepared to deal with the conditions that can develop. Cupping is a term used when the edges become higher than the center width. This is caused by absorption of water from below the strip or plank. To dry this condition, it is best to address it from below. This can be accomplished by using inter-‐air devices to direct airflow under the flooring system. Time is critical when drying hardwoods. Perform monitored drying until readings reflect an acceptable range of pre-‐loss EMC (this is the MC at which wood neither absorbs or releases moisture). Below 16% is a good rule. Dry cupped hardwood to within 2-‐4% of normal EMC. If no standard is available, then use the US hardwood standard of 10% MC. Once deemed acceptable, drying goals for hardwood should be observed and managed. In order to quickly dry the wood, it is recommended to get the GPP to below 40 in as fast a manner as practical.


44

Other wood based materials Oriented strand board (OSB) – More absorbent than plywood, weakens but regains strength. Particle board – highly absorbent, will warp and swell (Vinyl may be installed over particle board. It should be removed before drying.) Plywood – has greater resistance than particle board (Laminate flooring should be removed because of construction and installation materials.)


45

Hardwoods, plywood, and other materials that accept moisture readily are called hygroscopic. They will retain moisture until they reach equilibrium with the conditions of the surrounding environment. Increases in humidity cause hygroscopic materials to take on more water as they continue to equalize. Swelling and distortion become a major problem when conditions exceed 60% RH. Secondary damage is the caused by prolonged moisture contact, or failure to control high humidity by improper drying. Hygroscopic materials are the most common victims of secondary damage. Again, when 60% RH conditions are present, hygroscopic materials can absorb water vapor well beyond safe limits. Can you think of some hygroscopic materials?


46

Drying ceilings and walls Moisture affected walls can be dried to pre-‐loss when the correct techniques are used. The outer surface of the wall should be of little challenge to a restorer. But when water makes its way behind the wall, or if it came from above, then specialty systems should be considered. It is usually necessary to remove baseboards or trim to gain access to the wall cavity. Remove baseboards gently along the wallboard. Drywall becomes fragile when wet and then becomes stable after drying. Mark each section of trim board so that it may be reinstalled. Forcing airflow inside the cavity will promote evaporation to encourage drying. Wall cavities can also be dried by using tubes inserted along the wall or ceiling. Once airflow is established, drying is achieved. If the wall is covered by a vapor barrier, like enamel paints or vinyl wallpaper, special drying methods will be required. If water is causing sagging and saturation of ceilings, weep holes must be drilled to drain and reduce drying time. Inside walls or ceilings, there may be insulation material. Some insulation types may be salvaged. However, all blown in insulation must be removed because it loses its R-‐value when wet.


47

The science of DRY Structural drying requires the use of psychrometry. It is the application of formulas to evaluate and manage atmospheric conditions. Water vapor pressures in the air, the degree of air saturation, and humidity ratios can all be determined using psychrometry. HAT The three determining factors to consider during a drying project are Humidity Airflow Temperature The relationship among these driving forces must be understood to effectively dry a structure. Your goal is to create a balanced drying system that removes moisture from the air (dehumidifies) at least as fast as it evaporates. Temperature and Evaporation Evaporation is directly linked to heat. As the temperature rises, so does the level of evaporation. This is because warmer air is capable of holding more water vapor. Relatively speaking, warmer air is drier air. The highest temperature is the magic number where evaporation rate is the fastest, assuming all other things are equal. When dealing with wet contents and building materials, higher temperature is your friend. If you applied direct heat to materials, you will promote the fastest rate of evaporation. However, all moisture that you cause to evaporate must be dehumidified. This is where the science becomes interesting. Most refrigerant dehumidifiers operate in a range from 70-‐90 degrees. This means that when you are outside of that range, the dehumidification is far less effective. When you reach the 24-‐hour point in the job, your psychrometric calculations will help you determine if the drying system is acceptable. This is the trick to becoming a great restorer. Mastering the science is what will help you figure out the puzzle more often. This is exactly why daily monitoring and documentation of the project’s progression is so important. Evaluating the conditions throughout the


48

project will allow you to make adjustments as needed and dry the building as efficiently as possible. Be sure to record all of the data on logs for the sake of documentation. Lets talk about the principles associated with Psychrometry. You should view the atmospheric conditions in a drying job as controllable. Understanding some basic rules about air and moisture will help you to manipulate, and control the outcome. It is really about pulling moisture from where it has intruded. When vapor pressure differential is achieved between air and materials, then movement occurs. Raising temperature promotes the moisture to become vapor in the volume of air. Earlier we mentioned HAT as the driving forces for drying. Time is also considered to be the final factor as it impacts the total damage associated with water intrusion. Lets explore HAT a bit closer: Humidity Simply stated, this is the water vapor present in a volume of air. As with evaporation, as the temperature increases, the air is capable of holding more water vapor. More thermal energy is present in warmer air, so more vapor can be evaporated into it than cooler air.

3 Expressions of humidity A. Relative Humidity (RH) RH is the moisture suspended in a volume of air stated as a percentage of the total capacity of that air. When the air reaches the point at which the air cannot hold any more vapor, it has become saturated. Decreasing temperature equals increasing RH. Temperature increase equals decreasing RH. They are directly related. So it stands to reason that with all other factors being equal,

LOWER RH PROMOTES EVAPORATION. 60% RH is the magic number to avoid. For prolonged periods of time at 60% RH, microbial contamination and damage to contents may occur.


49

Hygroscopic materials will seek equilibrium with the atmosphere. Wood flooring, wood building materials, particle board, etc. will swell in high moisture content situations. A key to controlling the conditions is to get the RH to 40% or below during the first day. Closely monitor equipment performance to keep it within acceptable range. Each dehumidifier should be checked for grain depression, which is the GPP of the air entering the machine compared to the air exiting it.

B. Specific humidity (Humidity Ratio)

This expresses actual moisture in the volume of air by weight. It is stated in grains per pound of air. 7,000 grains are contained in one pound of air. (Many substances are measured in terms of GPP. A pound of gunpowder also contains 7,000 grains). Roughly 14 ft3 of air is contained in 1 pound, in VAPOR FORM. GPP is used to make drying decisions because it is more specific to actual suspended moisture in the air. RH alone cannot be used to pinpoint specific humidity.

C. Absolute humidity Commonly expressed in grams/ft3, absolute humidity is the quantity of water in a volume of air in terms of mass. Condensation (vapor to liquid state by removing heat) could be weighed to determine absolute humidity.

Vapor Pressure (VP) When water is in gas or liquid form, it acts upon the atmosphere or surfaces. This is known as VP. The more moisture, the higher the VP. In psychrometric terms, it is expressed in inches of mercury, and it is DIRECTLY RELATED TO GPP and DP. When these conditions change, so does the VP. Wet always seeks dry, even to the point of moving through materials to do so. This is because of the relationship of VP to GPP and DP. When VP is high in an area, it will mix with areas of lower VP if possible. If a material has a higher VP than the ambient air, the outcome will be evaporation. This does not occur when vapor barriers are present. What are some examples of vapor barriers?


50

As wet seeks dry, equilibrium with its environment is constantly the nature of moisture. Drying systems must be designed to reduce VP through dehumidification. This is only possible at temperatures that promote evaporation.

Airflow impact Evaporation is the changing of water from a liquid to a vapor. Directing air movement over a surface is an important technique in the drying project. Air promotes evaporation of moisture within materials. Wicking occurs when moisture flows upward to the surface. Evaporation follows as the air takes in the vapor. Establishing airflow definitely encourages the drying of materials. However, it can work against you. Be careful not to allow the evaporation rate to exceed dehumidifier performance. This can result in longer drying times, which could lead to moisture related damage.

Temperature’s role Moisture that is evaporating from wet materials will tend to lose heat or begin to cool. There is a lower potential for microbial growth. However, if the area reaches a temperature too low, it can adversely impact the rate of evaporation. Thorough monitoring and attention to affected area air temperature is imperative. Temperature can be stated in dry bulb or wet bulb. Which one do you use? If you said dry bulb, then you are correct. It is measured in either Celsius or Fahrenheit on a thermometer. Wet bulb temperature is not normally used in water damage restoration.

Dew Point

When humidity contacts cooler surfaces, it condenses. The temperature at which this happens is known as the dew point (DP). VP in a drying job is not ideal. Secondary damage is a big concern when DP is reached. One way to control DP is by lowering the GPP in affected areas. This will force the DP temp and VP to decrease. If you can work at a temperature above the DP, then evaporation is always faster.


51

Psychrometry application With 2 atmospheric readings, you can use the chart to calculate other conditions related to the volume of air.


52

Lets do a few problems: 1. Of 300F /70% RH or 500F/ 50% RH, which atmospheric condition has the lowest VP? _______________________________ 2. If indoor conditions are 750F/40% RH with no heat available, what outdoor conditions would be necessary for using an open drying system? ___________________________________________ 3. Which temperature, with a RH of 40%, would reflect a humidity ratio of 60 GPP? ________________________________________ 4. What is the humidity ratio at a temperature of 650F and 60% RH? __________________________________________ 5. Condensation on a surface would occur at what temperature when contacted by air at 850F with 40% RH? __________________________________ 6. On a drying job, if indoor conditions are 700 F/75% RH, what temperature is needed to bring RH to 30%? _____________________________ 7. When outdoor temperature is 750 and humidity ratio is higher than indoor conditions, how could you take advantage? ___________________________________________________________________________________ 8. At what temperature will condensation occur when conditions are 980F/ 40% RH? ___________________________________________ 9. Of 630F/ 32% RH and 700F/46% RH which environment would have a faster rate of evaporation from wet materials? ___________________________________________________________________________________


53

Bringing it all together

Now you have assembled a drying system that is working. Drying Science principles have been applied to the setup of your project. You have made thorough notes, documenting everything. Equipment is running and the client is pleased. You are on the way to a successful future as a water damage restorer. As this project moves forward, expect to make adjustments to equipment. It is not uncommon for removal of equipment as areas dry. That equipment can either be used in different affected areas or simply pulled from the project. The concept is to return to pre-‐loss. Take readings daily to ensure that your system is working properly. Don’t forget to closely monitor dehumidifier output performance. Once dried, the equipment can be removed. Secure a signed job completion form and finalize all paperwork. Then the building repairs, reinstall, and reconstruction can begin. If carpet is to be reinstalled, then the CRI 105 installation standard should be followed. This calls for the use of power stretcher with cushion “skin side up” to aid in installation.


54


55


56

Disclaimer for manuals: The IICRC reviews course manuals only to verify that each manual covers all of the test questions on the respective course exam, and that the course manual otherwise meets the criteria in the IICRC Policy and Procedures Manual. The IICRC does not otherwise review or approve course manuals for content or technical accuracy. The schools are independent of the IICRC and the responsibility for course manual content and technical accuracy, except as to exam question coverage, remains the responsibility of the respective schools and not the IICRC.

Process for becoming an IICRC Certified Firm Firms must first fill out a Certified Firm Application Request Form and submit to IICRC headquarters with a non-refundable $25 application fee. The Certified Firm Application Request Form is included with these instructions. Once the request form is received and reviewed to make sure the Certified Technicians are still with the firm and have a current registration, the firm will be sent a Certified Firm Application and Code of Ethics. The firm must sign and return a completed application and the IICRC Certified Firm Code of Ethics, along with a copy of its business license (if applicable), proof of insurance, and a non-refundable $125 for the first year’s registration fees. Firm must have, at least, one actively IICRC certified technician to become an IICRC Certified Firm. If a firm does not meet the requirements to become an IICRC Certified Firm upon submission of a Certified Firm application, the pending application will be held for up to six months. During this period, the firm is allowed to take the necessary steps to meet the requirements. All Certified Firms will have a common anniversary date of December 1 of each year. The first annual renewal bill will be prorated based on the acceptance date of the original registration. For example, if the firm became registered on June 1of the year at which time it paid the $125 annual registration, the annual renewal bill in November would be $63.00. Thereafter, the annual renewal bill will be equal to the full annual renewal amount set by the IICRC Board of Directors. When a firm is 90 days delinquent on its fees, the firm will be dropped from the roster. The firm may be reinstated when requirements are met and fees are paid. Firms are not eligible to order supplies or receive Certified Firm credentials until such time they meet all requirements. Only Certified Firms may display the Certified Firm registered trademark.

Rev. 12/2008

Rev. 12/2008

Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification 2715 East Mill Plain Blvd Vancouver, WA 98661 (360) 693-5675 fax (360) 693-4858 e-mail: [email protected]

CERTIFIED FIRM APPLICATION REQUEST FORM

Date:____________________________________

Name: Title:

Company Name (as it is to appear in listing)

Company Mailing Address:

City: State/Prov: Zip/Postal Code:

Country: Mobile/Pager:

Phone (as it is to appear in listing) Fax:

E-Mail:______________________________________Website:___________________________________

Please, list the names of IICRC Certified Technicians currently employed by the firm here: Request for Certified Firm Application fee is $25.00 (U.S. Funds) and must accompany this form. Fees are nonrefundable.

Check or Money Order enclosed or:

Please charge my: Visa MasterCard American Express V-Code:_____________

Account number: Expiration date:

Cardholder Name:

Signature:

Send fee along with this completed request form to: IICRC 2715 East Mill Plain Blvd Vancouver, Washington 98661 An additional annual fee for Certified Firm Status is $125 (U.S. funds) and must accompany your final application. If the firm does not meet the requirements to become an IICRC Certified Firm upon submission of this request, the pending application will be held for six months.

Rev. 5/2008

Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification For IICRC Use Only 2715 East Mill Plain Blvd Approved by: _____ Vancouver, WA 98661 Date: _______ (360) 693-5675 Fax: (360) 693-4858 No. Of Credits ____

APPLICATION FOR IICRC CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDITS Name Date Company Register # Address Phone( ) City State Zip/Postal Code Event Date Event Sponsor Event Description Event Number: (not applicable if attending an IICRC certification course)

Application must be signed by an authorized individual such as School Instructor, Association President, Executive Administrator or a pre-approved individual.

Sign Print Name Title Date Phone ( ) ************************************************************************************

APPROVED EVENT Attendance at Approved Schools. Attendance at Association sponsored Conventions, Workshops, Seminars, Chapter Meetings, and other educational functions as pre-approved. Attendance at supplier sponsored seminars as pre-approved. Attendance at Carpet Markets and or Carpet Market workshops. Attendance at other IICRC pre-approved functions. ************************************************************************************

RULES All applications for credits must be witnessed by the sponsoring organization. This can be accomplished by signature of organization official or submission of a verified attendance form from the organization. All applications must be submitted on the official IICRC application form which requires signature of an organization official. Applications for approval of events must be made on the IICRC official form, in writing and presented to IICRC 30 days prior to the date of the event. No exceptions will be made. Applications for approval will be processed by the IICRC Registrants Standards Committee. No other authorization will be accepted. All requests must be mailed to IICRC headquarters.

COPIES CAN AND SHOULD BE MADE OF THIS APPLICATION FOR FUTURE USE.

You may review the Privacy Policy at www.iicrc.org/privacypolicy

Revised Rules and Regulations for IICRC Certifications Available by Examination

Academic: All course examinations must be passed with 75% or higher to achieve certification. Carpet Cleaning Technician (2 Days) (CCT) Exam 101 Rug Cleaning Technician (2 days) (RCT) Exam 141 • Prerequisites: IICRC Certification in CCT or CCMT, and UFT Commercial Carpet Maintenance Technician (2 Days) (CCMT) Exam 201 Floor Care Technician (2 Days) (FCT) Exam 231 Stone, Masonry & Ceramic Tile Cleaning Technician (2 Days) (SMT) Exam 241 Resilent Floor Maintenance Technician (2 Days) (RFMT) Exam 251 • Prerequisites: IICRC Certification in FCT Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician (2 Days) (UFT) Exam 301 Leather Cleaning Technician (2 Days) (LCT) Exam 311 Odor Control Technician (1 Day) (OCT) Exam 401 Health And Safety Technician - US (2 Days) (HST) Exam 451 Health And Safety Technician – Canada (2 Days) (HST) Exam 452 Health And Safety Technician – AU/NZ (2 Days) (HST) Exam 453 Water Damage Restoration Technician (3 days) (WRT) Exam 501 Applied Structural Drying Technician (3 days) (ASD) Exam 511 • Prerequisite: IICRC Certification in WRT Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (4 days) (AMRT) Exam 521 • Prerequisite: IICRC Certification in WRT Applied Microbial Remediation Specialist (AMRS) • Prerequisites: AMRT: and HST or an OSHA 10-hour General Industry Health and Safety course, or other suitable program

subject to IICRC approval (There are no HST equivalents in Canada or Australia/New Zealand); and one year verifiable microbial remediation experience after the date of issuing the AMRT certification; and one of the following within one calendar year immediately before AMRS qualification: 10 verifiable microbial remediation projects or 1000 hours verifiable microbial remediation experience. Verification is by written Witness Statement under penalty of perjury, plus an appropriate Project Sheet(s).

Water Restoration/Applied Structural Drying Combo (5 days) (WRT / ASD) Exams 501 & 511 • This course must be attended in its entirety along with passing both WRT and ASD exams during that same five (5) day period.

If any portion of the course and exam are not completed during the five (5) day period, the student is required to re-attend the entire five (5) day course to receive both certifications. No portion of the five (5) day course can be applied to either a WRT or ASD course being taught separately.

Commercial Drying Specialist (4.5 days) (CDS) Exam 541 • Prerequisites: IICRC Certification in WRT Special note to Participants: Commercial drying projects frequently have many

more potential hazards and safety risks that are not generally encountered on residential projects. These hazards may include but not be limited to higher voltages, confined spaces, energized machinery, hazardous chemicals, heavy equipment and forklifts. The CDS course is not intended to be a health and safety course, nor will it cover all of the potential hazards that may be encountered on commercial projects. It is required of participants to comply with all applicable local, state/provincial and national safety rules and regulations. The participant is strongly advised to research and complete appropriate training programs (e.g. HST, OSHA 10-hour, Canadian HST) prior to participating in the CDS course.

Carpet Repair & Reinstallation Technician (2 days) (RRT) Exam 601 Color Repair Technician (2 days) (CRT) Exam 701 • Prerequisites: IICRC Certification in CCT or CCMT Carpet Inspector (5 days) (SCI) Exam 801 ∗ Prerequisites: Current IICRC Certification in CCMT or CCT, and RRT. During the first year after passing the IICRC inspector

exam, students are required to submit a minimum of ten (10) inspection reports, which will be reviewed by the Inspector Committee. Inspector status will not be awarded until such time as these reports are approved by committee.

Introduction to Substrate Subfloor Inspection (3 days) (ISSI) Exam 811 Marble & Stone Inspector (3 days) (MSI) Exam 821 ∗ Prerequisite: IICRC Certification in SSI or ISSI. During the first year after passing the IICRC inspector exam, the individual is

required to submit a minimum of ten (10) inspection reports which will be reviewed by the Inspector Committee. Inspector status will not be awarded until such time as these reports are approved by committee.

Resilient Flooring Inspector (4 days) (RFI) Exam 831 ∗ Prerequisite: IICRC Certification in SSI or ISSI. During the first year after passing the IICRC inspector exam, the individual is


Ceramic Tile Inspector (4 days) (CTI) Exam 841 ∗ Prerequisite: IICRC Certification in SSI or ISSI. During the first year after passing the IICRC inspector exam, the individual is


Wood Laminate Flooring Inspector (4 days) (WLFI) Exam 851 & 852 ∗ Prerequisite: IICRC Certification in SSI or ISSI. During the first year after passing the IICRC inspector exam, the individual is

required to submit a minimum of ten (10) inspection reports which, will be reviewed by the Inspector Committee. Inspector status will not be awarded until such time as these reports are approved by committee.

Fire & Smoke Restoration Technician (2 days) (FSRT) Exam 901

Advanced Designations (No Examination) Designations are automatically awarded after attaining the proper credits

Journeyman Textile Cleaner (JTC) A minimum of twelve (12) months after original IICRC certification date plus attainment of certifications as listed below. ∗ Certification in (CCT or CCMT) and UFT and either (OCT, CRT or RRT) Journeyman Fire & Smoke Restorer (JSR) A minimum of twelve (12) months after original IICRC certification date plus attainment of certifications as listed below. ∗ Certification in UFT, OCT and FSRT Journeyman Water Restorer (JWR) A minimum of twelve (12) months after original IICRC certification date plus attainment of certifications as listed below. ∗ Certification in (CCT or CMT), WRT and RRT Master Textile Cleaner (MTC) A minimum of three (3) years after original IICRC certification date plus attainment of specific certifications as listed below. ∗ Certification in (CCT or CCMT), UFT, OCT, (RRT or BRT) and CRT Master Fire & Smoke Restorer (MSR) A minimum of three (3) years after original IICRC certification date plus attainment of specific certifications as listed below. ∗ Certification in (CCT or CCMT), UFT, OCT, FSRT and (HST or equivalent) (There are no HST equivalents in Canada or

Australia/New Zealand) Master Water Restorer (MWR) A minimum of three (3) years after original IICRC certification date plus attainment of specific certifications as listed below. ∗ Certification in (CCT or CCMT), RRT, WRT, ASD, AMRT/S and (HST or equivalent) (There are no HST equivalents in

Canada or Australia/New Zealand)

IICRC Testing Fee Structure All Technician Exams (excluding AMRT & Inspector): $ 50.00 AMRT and Inspector: $150.00 Retest: $ 25.00

Only two retakes are allowed. Exam must be retaken within 90 days of receiving test results; otherwise, re-attendance will be required before testing can be done again.

Annual Registration Fee

After one (1) year, registrant will receive annual renewal billing. If certified in 1 or 2 categories, fee will be $30 annually, 3 and 4 categories is $40 and 5 or more categories is $50 annually. Master status will be an additional $10.00. Applied Microbial Remediation certification will be $60.00 annually. If registrant lets certification lapse for a period of over twelve (12) months, he or she will be required to re-attend an approved school, retake exam and pay appropriate fees. If registrant wishes to reinstate certification within the twelve (12) month period, outstanding fees and fulfillment of continuing education credits will be required. Registrants must follow the Code of Ethics or be subject to sanctions up to and including loss of certification. ANNUAL REGISTRATION FEE SPECIFIC TO EUROPE Annual renewal for one (1) to more than five (5) is £46.00. Master levels are an additional £10.00. AMRT and inspector fees are an additional £100.00. Credentialed Carpet Inspector is an additional £50.00. All fees include the applicable standard VAT rate. (01.2009) ANNUAL REGISTRATION FEE SPECIFIC TO AUSTRALIA/NEW ZEALAND

If certified in 1 or 2 categories, fee will be $50 annually, 3 and 4 categories is $60 and 5 or more categories is $70 annually. Master status will be an additional $20.00. Applied Microbial Remediation certification will be $80.00 annually. A practicing inspector is an additional $150.00 whether certified in one or more inspection categories. Credentialed carpet inspector is $60.00 annually. All are figured in Australian dollars. Registrants must maintain all prerequisite and required courses to attain and maintain certifications requiring prerequisites and advanced designation status. (For example, WRT must be maintained to first attain and then to maintain ASD, and all supporting designations must be maintained to attain and to maintain Journeyman, Master, and Inspector status according to current IICRC policies). Certified Inspector: Once the inspector has passed the probationary requirements, he or she may choose to be listed as “Practicing” or “Credentialed”. Practicing inspectors will pay $80.00 annually for fees with listing on the #800 IICRC Referral System and the web site, while Credentialed will pay $40.00 per year with no listing. Hard Surface inspectors are only listed as Practicing with fee as $80.00 annually. Certified Firms: A Certified Firm Application Request Form must be requested and returned to IICRC with a nonrefundable $25.00 processing fee. Upon approval of the request form, the firm will be sent Application for Certified Firm. The Application for Certified Firm must be forwarded to headquarters with the annual fee of $125.00. This is a separate fee from the $25.00 processing fee and is also nonrefundable. Once Certified Firm status is granted, the firm is immediately listed on the #800 IICRC Referral System as well as the IICRC web site at www.iicrc.org. The Certified Firm is also eligible at this time to use the registered trademark for advertising purposes.

The IICRC Reserves the Unqualified Right to Change and Revise the Policies, Procedures and Requirements. You may review the Privacy Policy at www.iicrc.org/privacypolicy Revised 2/11

Documents

WRT - Steemer-Onlinewrt stanley steemer university!! 1! introduction) 2! water)intrusion) 6! wrt)overview) 7! categories)ofwater) 9! classes)ofwater)loss) 10! safe)restorers) 11!