HIDDEN HAZARDS IN FLOOD CLEAN UP

Contaminated water, broken glass, debris, and damaged electricity supplies are among the risks to the safety of those returning to flooded areas. Employers must ensure work is properly planned and coordinated with regular communication, sufficient training and supervision for workers and volunteers, and regular rest breaks to manage fatigue.

When cleaning up after a flood, workers must be equipped with appropriate protective clothing such as sturdy, waterproof boots, heavy duty gloves and eyewear.

Common hazards include sewage containing harmful bacteria that may have overflowed inside a building, wet, slippery and unstable surfaces, and wild animals seeking shelter. Workplaces inundated with contaminated floodwater must be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.

Only use water that has been boiled or disinfected to wash your hands.  Wear protective clothing to avoid cuts from glass and other sharp objects that may be floating in contaminated water. Damaged gas and electricity appliances are another hazard. They must be avoided until declared safe by an electrician or plumber.

Things to consider during clean-up and recovery include:

• Before starting any task, take time to identify potential hazards and consider how to remove or control the associated risks.
• Ensure work is properly planned and coordinated with regular communication, sufficient supervision and regular rest breaks.
• Only use equipment that is in good condition, fit for purpose and has appropriate guards in place.
• Have appropriate personal protective equipment for each task (for example boots, gloves, eye and ear protection, hats, sun protective clothing and high visibility vests) and ensure it is worn correctly.
• Ensure machinery and vehicle operators are competent and experienced in using specific equipment for the intended task.
• Clear debris from areas where vehicles are operating, implement traffic management plans and be aware of unstable ground and potential washouts hidden by standing water.
• Use powered machinery for lifting large or heavy items, particularly if they are waterlogged.

Because of potential safety/hygiene issues it is important to:

• Keep children away during the clean up.
• Use disinfectant when cleaning.
• Wash your hands before eating or drinking.
• Disinfect any cuts quickly and cover them with a waterproof dressing.

Flood waters can be dangerous and may be contaminated, so always wear protective equipment for all tasks:

• Sturdy boots, long pants and long sleeves, eye protection and gloves.
• Watch out for potential dangers such as snakes, spiders, and other animals.
• If power lines have fallen, move away slowly and calmly and contact the energy authorities. Be careful around trees, as branches may have become loose and can fall without warning.
• If you have to step in water to get to the fuse box or circuit breaker, call an electrician first for advice.
• All electrical equipment (including vacuum cleaners, washers, fridges, and dryers) should be dried and checked by an electrician before being used again.

VIEW FULL RANGE OF FLOOD SIGNS HERE