Following the recent flooding across London, specifically in central London, various SPS teams worked together to restore order in the affected areas.
The issue and cause
Following a long period of dry weather, the sudden heavy rainfall and adverse weather in London had an instant impact on several communities. Multiple incidents triggered major incident protocols throughout the Capital. SPS teams worked with client Escalation Managers and Emergency Duty Coordinators in many Boroughs and communities to support the residents.
Due to back log of day time repairs engineers faced challenges with the floods exacerbating ongoing repairs or underlying issues at many properties. On top of that there were multiple lift failures in tower blocks throughout the City. This proved particularly difficult when residents had to be relocated as buildings became inhabitable.
“Water was coming in everywhere”, said one resident, “from ground up, with the flooding and top down from blocked gutters and old outstanding roof repairs “
The solution
Multiple SPS teams were despatched to attend the affected properties. We followed very strict and streamlined processes with everyone knowing their role . So many cases required immediate action, but it was structured and collaborative – teamwork at its best.
With alerts from Escalation Managers in local councils flying in, we had to begin the process of tending to the most vulnerable of families and properties. In the most severe case, we relocated 14 families to nearby accommodation using our trusted hotel partners in the local area. Dry, warm conditions were welcomed, as well as the food vouchers, whilst we tended to the necessary repairs throughout the night.
We conducted welfare checks on the affected residents and thoroughly inspected properties prior to moving people back into their accommodation.
The outcome
We were delighted to be a part of what became an extremely coordinated event. It was rewarding to see our teams working together seamlessly with residents, other engineers, managers and hotel partners, with everyone having their role to play in the process. Over and above this, we were able to help those most needy and vulnerable during the flooding, which naturally, would have caused a great amount of stress to them, their families and a major disruption in the local community.
Well done to all teams involved!