08/22/2021 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 08/22/2021 13:25
BOSTON - The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administrationurges response crews and residents to recognize the hazards created by flooding, power loss, structural damage, fallen trees and storm debris in areas affected by Tropical Storm Henri.
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:
'When Mother Nature hits us hard, workers entering disaster areas to help clean up and restore services must be prepared to do their jobs safely,' said OSHA Acting Regional Administrator Jeffrey Erskinein Boston. '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).