Cool Breeze Rentals called to tackle floods

Cool Breeze Rentals called on to tackle Queensland flood remediation

Urgent restoration works were required within a narrow timeframe after flooding had subsided. Coolbreeze began preparations as soon as they heard the news of potential flooding. Once the water levels dropped and sites became accessible and evaluated, the clean-up process could begin. Usually, insurers need to confirm works.

The ability to provide a fast-response service is critical. Coolbreeze supplied flood restoration equipment to many of the major restoration companies involved in the clean-up process with a range of portable and stackable, commercial-grade restoration equipment that enabled the movement of large amounts of stock quickly and efficiently.

Equipment was hired and sold throughout Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Lismore and surrounds. The biggest challenges were the widespread road closures, as well as safety and access to the flood sites. Many orders were delivered near the affected areas and taken in once accessible.

Q: What equipment was required for a flood event like this?

A combination of equipment was required depending on the state of the site. Flood-affected restoration works usually require water removal and drying. Frequently, air cleaning, ventilation, or heating may also be required.

Dehumidifiers and Turbo Floor Dryers are essential for drying and remediation. HEPA Filter Air Scrubbers, Air Purifiers, Man Cooler Fans are also used depending on site specifics. On occasion, our Diesel Heaters or Electric Heaters are used to ensure the optimal temperatures for dehumidification.

Q: How did Cool Breeze Rentals manage the logistical challenges?

We have extensive experience in urgent, high-demand scenarios. We supply Temporary Air Conditioning for emergency breakdowns, and every summer receive urgent requests for portable air conditioners to be delivered under strict KPIs. We were also heavily involved in the 2011 Brisbane floods, where we supplied bulk amounts of flood restoration equipment to affected areas, as well as portable air conditioning to temporary relief centres. This experience allowed us to focus on our internal systems and drive continual improvement throughout our business processes.

(Above) Staff faced constant hurdles as every unique site had its own challenges

We have also invested in key products which are stackable, lighter, and more compact than previous models. These stackable models can fit around 3 times more product per pallet which helped to ease some of the pressure on our in-house delivery fleet.

These have been the “make or break” features for this type of emergency.

What service and site assistance did Cool Breeze Rentals need to provide?

High volume of staff and time resources were required 24/7. Our staff faced constant hurdles as every unique site had its own challenges. Some had no power, while other sites had limited access. Theft was a serious consideration as was OH&S.

On site servicing of our equipment is reasonably flexible and easy. We have washable filters in our Dehumidifiers that have tool-less removal. The filters can be assessed without removal, and if dirty, are removed, washed, dried, and then refitted.

HEPA air filters and pre filters are also easy to remove and replace. We have mobile test tag machines and pressure washers that were used onsite as required. Electrical components required extra consideration, tests, and checks for these high moisture waterlogged areas.

Some customers ordered additional or back-up equipment to prevent downtime in the case of any product issues or site progress. This helped alleviated the demand on our resources.

We are proud of the Cool Breeze Rentals team and its response to emergency relief situations on a national level and continue to develop and improve upon our current quality service and products.