Occupational safety: What to do for flood safety and preparedness

Post date: Jul 22, 2019 5:14:59 PM

Floods can be merciless in their power and the extent of the damage they can cause. Many states in the U.S. have greatly suffered from flooding disasters in recent years, and the workplace isn’t spared from these natural hazards. Here are some tips for businesses and employees during flooding, according to occupational safety expert Captain Martin Sanders, Ph.D., CSP.

Wear protective clothing: Rubber is often considered the best material for flooding, and boots, gloves, and goggles made of this material are useful in water and in getting slight protection from electrical dangers. Wear appropriate footwear, too, such as hard soles for workers. Since hypothermia can be a real threat, stay warm in water-resistant clothes.

Find safe shelter right away: Avoid walking, swimming, or driving through flood waters. Stay off of bridges and determine the best available protection depending on the type of flooding. Evacuate the office when told, and move to higher ground or a higher flood if necessary. You should also stay where you are if it’s the best option.

Identify common hazards: Protect yourself from hazards such as electrical dangers, tree and debris removal, fire, carbon monoxide, mold, lifting injuries, chemical hazards, hypothermia, drowning, heat, and exhaustion, to name a few. Take the necessary precautions against them.

Avoid flooded rooms: Standing water and electrical equipment are a bad combination. Use extension cords and similar tools appropriately and only when they are in good condition. Turn off power at the main switch if there’s water in an area containing electrical equipment. The risk of electrocution is high and shouldn’t be ignored, warned Capt. Martin Sanders.

Maintain cleanliness: In the place where you are successfully evacuated, make sure to wash your hands with soap thoroughly before eating and drinking. Decontaminate your flood gear using a disinfectant. Since bacteria can seep into floodwater and cause illnesses like typhoid fever, maintain proper hygiene at all times.

Captain Martin Sanders, Ph.D., CSP, has more than a decade of service in the occupational safety and health sector. He has recently completed all requirements to obtain a certification as an Associate Safety Professional (ASP). For similar reads, visit this page.

Disclaimer: This site was prepared by Martin L. Sanders in his personal capacity. The opinions expressed are the author's own and do not reflect the views of the USPHS, the Department of Health and Human Services, or the United States government.