The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) urges those involved in recovery efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Florence to be aware of hazards from flooding, power loss, structural damage, fallen trees and storm debris, according to www.osha.gov.
"Workers involved in storm recovery can face a range of safety and health hazards," says OSHA Regional Administrator Kurt Petermeyer. "Risks can be minimized with knowledge, safe work practices and personal protective equipment."
Recovery efforts after the storm may involve hazards related to restoring electricity and communications, debris removal, repairing damage from water intrusion, roof repair and tree trimming. Only individuals with proper training, equipment and experience should conduct recovery and cleanup activities.
Protective measures after a weather disaster should include evaluating the work area for hazards; assessing the stability of structures and walking surfaces; fall protection for elevated surfaces; assuming all power lines are live; using chainsaws, portable generators, ladders and other equipment properly; and using personal protective equipment, such as gloves, hard hats, hearing and foot protection, and eye protectors.
OSHA maintains a website with safety tips to help employers and workers. Individuals involved with response and recovery efforts can call OSHA's toll-free hotline at (800) 321-OSHA (6742).
Additionally, NRCA's consumer website, www.everybodyneedsaroof.com, offers resources roofing professionals can share with their customers regarding how to handle roof system repairs after natural disasters such as hurricanes. The resources include criteria for selecting a professional roofing contractor; what to do before making roof system repairs; post-storm safety tips; and insurance information.
View the document regarding roof system repair after a hurricane and share with your customers.
