BELFOR Prevents an Environmental Catastrophe at a Chemical Warehouse Fire

A devastating fire at a chemical warehouse created a complex environmental challenge. The blaze resulted in a cocktail of chemicals mixing with the fire suppression water, leading to localized contamination.

The situation was further complicated by chemical leaching into the ground beneath the hardcore concrete slab and, alarmingly, into nearby waterways that feed into local reservoirs and eventually the ocean. This posed a significant threat to the environment and water supply.

The local authorities imposed stringent requirements, mandating that no contaminated water can enter the drainage system and that all waste water generated, as a result of decontamination efforts, and rainwater at the site have to be collected and treated prior entering the drainage system.

The BELFOR Solution

BELFOR was called in to manage this intricate decontamination project.

Our comprehensive approach involved several key phases:

1. Site Preparation and Containment: Modular, movable containment areas were established at designated locations. Sandbags provided secondary containment, and semi-submersible pumps were installed within the contained area. This crucial step ensured that no further contamination spread during the cleanup process. The warehouse was demolished and the debris was transferred to the designated containment areas. Most of the wastewater collected from the site and generated during the decontamination efforts were temporarily stored in a large containment area, set up at the site, and then transferred to tanker trucks, to be sent to a specialised wastewater treatment plant, for processing and disposal into the drainage system.

2. Decontamination of Demolished Materials: The core of this operation involved decontaminating the fire-damaged materials. BELFOR experts, equipped with specialized decontamination cleaning agents, consumables, and equipment, meticulously decontaminated the demolished building materials. The process involved:

• Applying an alkaline-based cleaning agent using high-pressure washers and hand pumps.

• Rinsing the treated materials with clean water using high-pressure washers and hand pumps to remove any remaining cleaning agent residue.
• Conducting on-site pH tests to verify that the materials achieved a neutral pH level, ensuring they were safe for disposal.

3. Wastewater Management: Managing the contaminated wastewater was critical. Submersible pumps were utilised to extract the wastewater from the containment area and transfer it into three tanker trucks. Any remaining wastewater was removed with wet vacuum cleaners. This meticulous approach prevented any contaminated water from entering the environment. The collected wastewater was then properly disposed of.

4. Environmental Testing and Validation: To guarantee the effectiveness of the decontamination process, swab tests were conducted on the decontaminated materials. These tests analysed the materials for toxicity elements, to meet the local authorities’ requirements. Only after receiving approval based on these test results were the decontaminated materials and burned chemical drums transferred and disposed of.

5. Decontamination of the Concrete Slab,  Ground and Drainage: The contamination extended beyond the warehouse debris. The hardcore concrete slab itself and the ground beneath it required decontamination. The concrete slab was demolished and decontaminated, prior to disposal.  The contaminated ground under the slab was excavated, decontaminated, and then carefully replaced. The drainage system was also decontaminated and tested.

The Importance of Expertise and a Systematic Approach

BELFOR’s systematic, multi-phased approach, combined with our experience in handling hazardous materials, was instrumental in successfully restoring the site and preventing further environmental damage. This project highlights the critical importance of specialised expertise in environmental decontamination, especially when dealing with chemical contamination. Our ability to work within the stringent guidelines set by the local authorities demonstrates our commitment to environmental protection.

Your Reliable and Trusted Partner

Remember that BELFOR has the experience, expertise, and resources to handle even the most complex restoration projects.

Contact BELFOR when facing a similar disaster to ensure a swift, effective, and environmentally responsible recovery.