Domestic Heating Oil Spill, Rawtenstall, Lancashire

This property was constructed by the refurbishment and extension of a former school building. The previous building was originally heated using an oil fired boiler located in the boiler room.

During the redevelopment works the subcontractors failed to recognise oil staining on one of the walls and placed the dry lining directly onto the wall. Several months after the property had been sold the resident noticed staining of the wall and complained of an ‘oil smell’

Historical records were checked and the potential for contamination was identified in the vicinity of the wall in question. An intrusive survey was undertaken and samples identified fuel stained brickwork behind the dry lining.

The dry lining and affected brickwork was removed and  replaced with new materials. Confirmatory analysis being undertaken at every stage in the process.

Client

Insurance company, Loss adjuster

Site


Residential property, Rawtenstall, Lancashire

Problem


Historic fuel leak

Technologies utilised


On site testing and monitoring. Long term exposure monitoring

Validation


External laboratory analysis