The Situation: Post-fire contamination
Ideal Response was appointed by the client to manage the restoration of a contained car park in Bromley, London following a fire incident. The fire had resulted in extensive ash and soot damage across various surfaces, including the soffits, mechanical and electrical (M&E) fixtures, walls, and floors.
The client had initially appointed a different contractor to resolve the issue. However, the previous contractor’s cleaning methods were ineffective; they failed to remove the soot entirely and left behind significant staining. Ideal Response was brought in to provide a specialist scope of works for total decontamination and restoration.
The Challenge: Re-working & live environments
This project presented several unique logistical and technical obstacles:
- Remedying previous failures: We had to remove not only the original soot but also the staining caused by the previous contractor’s unsuccessful cleaning attempts.
- Active environment: The car park remained in use during the restoration. Our team had to coordinate works around parked vehicles and public access.
- Access restrictions: Low height clearances within the car park required the use of specialist portable towers and compact equipment to reach elevated soffits and M&E services.
The Ideal Response: Precision media sandblasting
After a comprehensive site survey and successful test cleans, our technical experts determined that specialist sandblasting (media blasting) was the most effective solution for this specific substrate and the level of staining present. We have extensive experience using sandblasting systems for brick and stone cleaning work. We used this hands-on experience when determining the best approach to deliver the results for the client.
Step 1: Site preparation & safety
Due to the nature of sandblasting and the presence of smoke particulates, we implemented stringent Health & Safety protocols. Detailed RAMS were provided, covering working at height, dust suppression, noise management, and COSHH.
Step 2: Advanced cleaning techniques
Our technicians utilised a combination of industry-leading technologies:
- Sandblasting system: This controlled abrasive method allowed for the precise removal of stubborn soot and carbon staining without damaging the underlying M&E or structural soffits.
- DOFF system: Used where high-temperature steam-based cleaning was more appropriate for specific masonry surfaces to ensure a uniform finish.
- HEPA filtration: Specialist vacuums were used throughout the process to capture airborne soot particles and dust, maintaining safe air quality within the contained space.
Step 3: Detailed decontamination
Every component, including intricate M&E fixtures, was meticulously cleaned to ensure no fire-related odours or corrosive residues remained.
The Results: Cost-effective restoration
By deploying specialist sandblasting techniques, Ideal Response achieved a superior finish that the previous contractor could not match. The efficiency of the media blasting technology reduced the total time required on-site, saving the client significant costs by eliminating the need for repeated cleaning cycles.
All traces of soot and staining were successfully removed, returning the car park to a clean, safe, and professional condition.
