09/15/2021 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/15/2021 11:03
DALLAS - The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administrationurges response crews and residents in areas affected by Hurricane Nicholas to recognize the hazards created by flooding, power loss, structural damage, fallen trees and storm debris.
Response and recovery workers may face hazards related to restoring electricity and communications, removing debris, repairing water damage, repairing or replacing roofs and trimming trees. Only individuals with proper training, equipment and experience should conduct recovery and cleanup activities.
After a weather disaster, those involved in response and recovery should:
'Workers entering areas after severe weather must be prepared to do their jobs and help clean up and restore services safely,' said OSHA Regional Administrator Eric Harbin in Dallas. 'Employers must follow safe work practices, provide training on worksite hazards and ensure the use of appropriate personal protective equipment to reduce the risk of injuries.'
OSHA maintains a comprehensive webpageon hurricane preparedness and response with safety tips to help employers and workers, including an alert on keeping workers safe during flood cleanup. Individuals involved in response and recovery efforts may call OSHA at 800-321-OSHA (6742).