With unpredictable winter weather in full swing, many people have already prepared their emergency readiness kits and evacuation routes. But in areas that are subject to earthquakes, major flooding, protecting yourself from health and safety hazards while cleaning up after the storm is just as important. By following a few key steps, you’ll be able to help keep you and your family safe and set to move forward after a disaster.

Even after the wind and rains have passed, storm-affected sites can still pose potential hazards. Mould and fungi growing on water logged building materials can release spores that may cause an allergic response when inhaled. Damaged building materials may contain asbestos fibres.  Disturbed rubble may release harmful dusts including crystalline silica.  Floodwaters may become contaminated with harmful bacteria and industrial chemicals. Power lines can fall, tree limbs can dangle, and generators brought in to power restoration equipment can pose the risk of carbon monoxide exposure if not properly vented.

Some of the common hazards you can expect to encounter after a disaster are:

• Mould
• Asbestos containing materials
• Dusts including crystalline silica
• Chemical or biological hazards
• Exhaustion
• Heat stroke
• Live wires
• Falling/dangling objects
• Rodents, snakes, insects
• Lifting injuries
• Carbon monoxide
• Fire
• Drowning
• Hypothermia

It is recommended when cleaning up sites, to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect you from health and safety risks. PPE should be included in your emergency response kit and part of your preparedness plan. PPE includes everything from respirators, safety eyewear, hearing protection, hard hats, coveralls and reflective vests and beyond to help minimise the health and safety hazards you many find at a cleanup site.

If you discover or suspect the presence of asbestos containing materials then seek immediate assistance from a competent asbestos assessor.  Do not disturb the materials.

We want to help keep you safe and healthy, so that in the wake of a natural disaster, you can focus on what’s ahead—recovery and rebuilding.

BE PREPARED. STAY SAFE.