David Hodge

Due to the varying aspects of each job, it is difficult to pinpoint a favorite tool. Technology has advanced so much in the past two decades that we now have laser cleaning systems, ultrasonic systems that include electronics cleaning stations, various media blasting systems and many other advancements! However, outside of our brains, I would say I am most partial to HEPA vacuums and whatever setup a technician uses to provide ventilation. I believe these two processes are extremely vital in providing for the health and safety of both the workers and building occupants. With so many toxic substances that are produced during combustion, many of which are regulated under OSHA and highly carcinogenic, having a means of capturing these prior to and during the cleaning process is paramount!       

As I stated in the previous question, media blasting, laser cleaning, ultrasonic and other advancements all stand out. However, the advent of apps such as Encircle and equipment like Matterport has created an opportunity for companies to streamline their processes and make them much more proficient in job processing. It seems that for years, processing a customer’s personal property was a major component of the fire damage claim and much of the financial loss to the customer and carrier revolved around inventorying, pack-outs, cleaning, storage, move-backs and supplies.

There’s also a common loss to the contractor with, “Your company broke this,” or, “Your guys stole or lost that.” Encircle and other apps help to alleviate many of the contractor’s concerns with theft or lost items, and Matterport helps to identify pre-existing damages that technicians may not have noted otherwise. I often wish we had access to all of these new advancements 25 years ago. As far as what I would like to see, well, that’s simple! A change in the mindset of the industry regarding how the jobs are processed so that safety and health are at the forefront and everyone in the company involved in these jobs takes them seriously.