A significant fire affected a regional retail store in Nowra, NSW, after an electrical device malfunctioned, releasing smoke and soot throughout the building, including the ceiling void.

Carbon soot and ash particles settled across the entire premises, creating an immediate risk to the structural integrity, occupant safety, and ongoing business operations. A rapid restoration response was essential to return the retailer to trade to minimise business disruption.

Immediate Mitigation and Site Control

SGR mobilised without delay. On arrival, a rapid hazard assessment was completed with mitigation measures implemented in accordance with IICRC S700 Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration standards. Engineering controls were established to reduce airborne particulates, prevent cross-contamination, and safely isolate affected zones.

Specialist Large Loss Deployment

Within 48 hours, 25 IICRC-certified Fire and Smoke Restoration Specialists, supported by experienced Project Managers, were deployed to manage the event. Their priority was to limit secondary damage to both structural elements and contents, while advancing the remediation at pace.

Technical Restoration Methodology

The project required a full-scope remediation program encompassing:

• Comprehensive soot and smoke removal using industry-approved HEPA filtration and alkaline neutralisation processes.

• Detail cleaning from floor to ceiling, including super-structural elements, fixtures, and fittings, following prescribed protocols for porous, semi-porous, and non-porous materials.

• Electronic equipment decontamination and triage, including assessment, testing, and restoration of salvageable items.

• Inventory and detailed assessment of non-restorable and salvageable contents, supporting insurance requirements and ensuring transparent loss documentation.

Operations were maintained continuously, with extended working hours to compress timelines and reduce business interruption exposure.

Outcome

Despite the regional location and complexity of the fire event, SGR returned the site to full operational status within five weeks. The controlled methodology, disciplined adherence to industry standards, and close coordination with the facility owner ensured the retailer remained available to its community and avoided prolonged disruption.