HMRC - Disaster Recovery

Issue

Environment & Power Technology (EPT) led the response to Storm Eva’s flooding at HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) offices in Ralli Quays, Salford over the festive period. The alert was raised due to the rising water levels causing the River Irwell to burst its banks. The waters soon reached the building, flooding the sub-basement car park reaching 1.6 metres high.

The Solution

The emergency call was made on Boxing Day to EPT’s helpline, who were able to dispatch a team within an hour to assess the site and devise a rapid response to limit the damage to the building. The danger of the water reaching the electricity supply, presented the greatest threat. Therefore, the electricians immediately set about ensuring the substation was secure from the risk of the flood.

There were still over 30 vehicles in the car park with water levels rising, so EPT together with the on-site staff organised their removal. After liaising with The Environment Agency and United Utilities, a planned response of activities was quickly executed. This included arranging the supply of four 2,000 gallon jet vacuumation tankers to pump out the flood water. In just four days, 6,000 cubic metres of water, enough to fill almost two-and-a-half Olympic swimming pools was removed.

EPT replaced two boost water pump sets, which supplied the water distribution systems, as they were damaged beyond economic repair. Before re-installing the water supply, the systems underwent a chlorination process.

The remaining water laying in the depth of the lift shafts was pumped out, so the lifts could be re-instated. EPT carried out a clean-up operation to remove a significant amount of silt and debris.  The operation was completed by final visual and technical inspections of the entire site. The Senior Estates Team at HMRC, “were extremely pleased with the response and efforts” taken to resolve the consequences of the storm.

The Result

During the recovery effort, we were able to effectively remove over 30 vehicles that were at risk of the flood waters.

Through quick thinking and the organisation of 4 jet vaccumation tankers alongside 2 new boost water pump sets, we were able to limit damage. We also managed to clear silt and debris as part of the clean-0up operation, which would help to prevent future flooding.

Our efforts meant that we were able to ensure the operation was completed before the staff returned from the festive break on the 4th Jan 2016.