Dealing with Equipment Left in High Water During Floods: What You Need to Know

[MikePhua]

Natural disasters like floods can wreak havoc on construction sites and infrastructure projects, leaving equipment submerged in rising waters for hours or even days. Equipment that is left in high water can suffer significant damage, leading to costly repairs and downtime. But how can you assess the extent of the damage, and what should you do if your equipment is left in floodwaters?
In this article, we’ll explore the risks of equipment submerged in floodwaters, the necessary steps to take when recovering and assessing the damage, and preventive measures for future flooding events.
The Risks of Submerging Equipment in High Water
Flooding is one of the most devastating natural disasters, and heavy equipment is often one of the first victims. When machinery is left in high water, there are several key risks:

1. Electrical Damage
   Most modern heavy equipment relies on sophisticated electrical systems to operate. Water can quickly short-circuit these systems, rendering control panels, wiring, and sensors useless. If electrical components are submerged for too long, they may need to be completely replaced, resulting in high repair costs.
   
2. Hydraulic System Damage
   Hydraulic components, such as pumps, cylinders, and hoses, are particularly vulnerable to contamination from floodwaters. Water, especially if it contains debris, can enter hydraulic lines, causing contamination that can lead to clogged filters, seals, and pumps. If left untreated, this contamination can lead to complete hydraulic system failure.
   
3. Corrosion and Rust
   Prolonged exposure to water can cause metal components to rust. This is particularly concerning for parts that require smooth operation, like engine components and mechanical joints. Corrosion can also affect the structural integrity of equipment, leading to cracks and weakening the overall frame.
   
4. Engine and Transmission Damage
   Water can enter the engine and transmission through vents or seals. If the water gets into the intake, combustion chambers, or oil systems, it can cause significant internal damage. Even short-term exposure to water can lead to hydrolocking the engine, where the engine is filled with water instead of air, causing it to seize up.
   
5. Contaminated Fuel Systems
   Floodwaters often bring debris, dirt, and other contaminants that can infiltrate the fuel system. If water or sediment enters the fuel tank, fuel lines, or filters, it can cause the engine to run poorly or stop entirely. Contaminated fuel systems may require draining and cleaning to restore normal function.
   

What to Do If Your Equipment Has Been Submerged
If your equipment has been submerged in high water, it’s essential to take immediate action. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do:

1. Ensure Safety First
   Before anything, ensure that the area around the submerged equipment is safe. Check for electrical hazards or potential damage to surrounding infrastructure. If you’re unsure about the safety of the site, consider consulting with emergency response professionals.
   
2. Disconnect the Battery
   Disconnecting the battery is one of the first steps you should take to prevent electrical shorts or further damage to the machinery's electrical system. This will help reduce the risk of fire or electrical shock when you start inspecting the equipment.
   
3. Assess the Water Level and Duration
   Document how deep the water was and how long the equipment was submerged. If the water was only a few inches deep and the equipment was only submerged for a short period, there may be less damage than if the equipment was completely submerged for hours or days. Floodwaters containing debris, mud, and chemicals can cause more significant contamination than clear water.
   
4. Check the Engine and Oil Levels
   Inspect the engine for any signs of water contamination, particularly in the oil. If the engine oil appears milky or discolored, it’s an indication that water has entered the engine. You’ll need to drain the contaminated oil and replace the filter before attempting to restart the engine.
   
5. Inspect the Hydraulic System
   Open up the hydraulic reservoir and inspect the fluid. If the fluid looks cloudy or muddy, this is a sign that floodwater has mixed with the hydraulic fluid. It’s important to drain the contaminated hydraulic fluid and replace all filters before refilling with clean, fresh fluid.
   
6. Check the Fuel System
   Inspect the fuel tank and fuel lines for any signs of contamination. If water has entered the fuel system, you’ll need to drain the fuel tank, flush the lines, and replace the fuel filters. If the water was mixed with dirt or debris, it may be necessary to clean out the entire fuel system.
   
7. Look for Signs of Rust or Corrosion
   Inspect any exposed metal components for signs of rust or corrosion. Take note of any parts that might need to be replaced due to the damage, especially those that are critical for the machine’s operation. Rust on mechanical components can also lead to them seizing, which may require expensive repairs.
   
8. Flush and Clean the Equipment
   Once you’ve removed contaminated fluids, thoroughly clean all exposed surfaces. Using a pressure washer or a specialized cleaning agent, remove mud, debris, and dirt that may have accumulated. Ensure that all moving parts, such as hydraulic cylinders and tracks, are properly cleaned to prevent further damage from corrosion.
   
9. Consult a Professional Technician
   It’s always best to consult with a certified technician for a detailed inspection. A professional mechanic can assess the full extent of the damage, especially if there is internal engine or transmission damage that may not be immediately visible.
   

Repair or Replace: Deciding the Best Course of Action
Once you’ve assessed the equipment, the next step is to determine whether it should be repaired or replaced. This decision largely depends on the severity of the damage and the age of the equipment.

1. Repair
   • If the equipment is relatively new and the damage is limited to hydraulic or electrical systems, it may be worth repairing. Components such as wiring, pumps, and seals can be replaced, and the machinery can be restored to good working condition.
     
   • For equipment with minimal corrosion or water contamination, repairing and cleaning may be sufficient to return it to service.
     
2. Replace
   • If the equipment has suffered severe engine or transmission damage, especially if the water has caused rust and corrosion to critical components, replacing the equipment may be more cost-effective in the long run.
     
   • For older equipment that was already near the end of its service life, the cost of repairs may exceed the value of replacement.
     

Preventive Measures to Avoid Flood Damage
While you can’t always predict when a flood will occur, there are several measures you can take to reduce the risk of damage to your equipment:

1. Elevate Equipment: Whenever possible, store equipment on higher ground, away from flood-prone areas. Use portable ramps or platforms to elevate equipment when heavy rains or floods are expected.
   
2. Flood Barriers: Install temporary or permanent flood barriers around sensitive areas of your job site, including where equipment is stored. These barriers can help divert water away from valuable machinery.
   
3. Waterproof Covers: Use waterproof covers on machinery, especially sensitive components like electrical panels and hydraulic reservoirs, to minimize water ingress during floods.
   
4. Regular Maintenance: Ensure that all seals, gaskets, and hoses are regularly checked and maintained to reduce the risk of water entering the equipment.
   

Conclusion: Navigating the Aftermath of Flood-Related Equipment Damage
Floods are unpredictable and can cause significant damage to heavy equipment. However, understanding the risks and knowing how to act when your equipment is submerged in water can greatly reduce the extent of the damage. By assessing the situation carefully, draining and replacing contaminated fluids, and conducting a thorough inspection, you can give your equipment the best chance of recovery.
Remember that in some cases, the cost of repairs may outweigh the value of keeping the equipment, especially for older machinery. But with the right preventive measures and timely maintenance, you can reduce the chances of facing flood-related equipment damage in the future. Stay prepared and always err on the side of caution when dealing with flood-prone job sites.