Hurricane Clean Up Safety

As we are dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Isaias, it is important that we try to stay level headed and remember about hurricane clean up safety. Naturally, often in the throws of anger and other negative emotions, you might try to act as quickly as possible to try to recover your livelihood, but there are dangers lurking in the post-storm mess.

Now what?

Take it slow and stay safe

The hurricane has passed, the weather is clearing, and the water is receding. That’s when the hazards emerge as first responders and their crews start to enter the area. Fallen trees, downed power lines, flooding and storm debris are some of the visible hazards for crews during clean-up efforts after a hurricane or localized flooding. But there are many hidden dangers!

The PuroClean crew is a first response contractor- we realize all the steps for safety during hurricane or flood water clean up.

Realize the dangers

As cleanup begins in affected areas, workers and residents alike may unknowingly encounter hidden safety and health-compromising conditions, including contaminated water, polluted air, mold, contagious diseases, carbon monoxide, and insects. Being aware of such hazards allows individuals to protect themselves and their crews from dermal, inhalation, and respiratory exposure.

The types of risks

Risks in floodwaters

Flood and standing water make disease more likely occur. Floodwaters will likely contain sewage, toxic chemicals, blood-borne pathogens, and other potentially infectious materials (OPIM), and hidden sharp objects such as metal or glass. As emergency restoration responders, we realize that it’s critical to protect yourself from becoming compromised due to these health hazards and to ensure the use of proper PPE, which may include hip waders, rubber boots with steel toes and shank, proper gloves and eye protection, as well as a hard hat.

Risks in the air

Air pollution after the storm is also a significant health hazard. As contaminated waters begin to recede and dry out, mud and silt begins to settle on roads and the interiors and exteriors of buildings. After this mud and silt dries, vehicles and workers entering affected areas stir up this contaminated residue, making it airborne and easy to breathe in, which can cause lingering respiratory symptoms—including cough, runny nose, lung infections, and sinus problems. In these situations, PPE that protects from ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact should be considered. This includes eye protection, appropriate respirators, and may even require disposable coveralls with hood and booties.

Contact us for all your hurricane clean up needss

PuroClean technicians are specialized in emergency response to both mundane homeowner troubles, as well as results of extreme weather events. Contact us today.