The Lanes Group warns that it makes sense for the care industry to adopt best practice in an area which is all too often ignored — drains.

The care sector is particularly vulnerable to drain and sewer concerns because of high usage and output through the drainage system. And, with many sites operating commercial kitchens too, there may be an additional problem of fat, oil and grease build up in the drains.

Detrimental effect

You should not underestimate the detrimental effect of a drainage disaster on your business, and your clients.

Of course, drainage problems anywhere should be resolved quickly, but when you are dealing with vulnerable or sick people, it is even more crucial that mess, disruption and health hazards are avoided.

The key to minimising the risk of a calamity is with best practice — and a competent and knowledgeable supplier.

Have a plan

It is all about planning and finding a good drainage specialist. This will reduce the inconvenience and risk to your residents or patients, and staff; and lessen the chances of you causing a pollution incident or contravening legislation such as The Water Industry Act 1991; Environmental Protection Act 1990 Duty of Care or the Environmental Protection Act 1990 Statutory Nuisance.

For example, we work on a reactive basis for some of our clients, where our role is to turn out to any blockage or drainage emergency, anywhere on the Blackpool, Fylde & Preston area — usually within a 1 hour response with no call out fee. For others, we provide a full planned maintenance service.

A planned maintenance contract means that the foul and storm water drainage system is inspected and cleaned at regular intervals. Making sure that any debris is dislodged and silt build up jetted out routinely ensures that the system is kept flowing. That means fewer potential emergency call outs in the long run, so it really does make sense.