SafeWork NSW is actively encouraging those in flood-damaged areas to stay vigilant for potential hazards as they return to the workplace and begin the clean-up process. It’s essential to be aware of risks like polluted water, shattered glass, rubble, compromised electrical setups and asbestos that those returning to flooded workplaces may face.
Prominent hazards comprise sewage with harmful bacteria that might have overflowed indoors, wet, unstable, slippery surfaces and wildlife such as rodents, snakes and spiders. Workplaces should carry out a detailed risk assessment during the clean-up and make sure every task is meticulously planned before entering flood-affected zones. Following all guidance by emergency service bodies before beginning clean-up and confirming workers and volunteers are well-equipped with safety gear, like waterproof shoes, gloves and protective eyewear, forms part of best practice.
In addition, adopting a Bluesafe WHS Management System can prove to be beneficial while dealing with these tasks. Regular rest times are crucial to combat fatigue. Flood-impacted buildings and other structures could introduce health and safety hazards embedded in the debris and structure itself. Buildings constructed before 1990 will likely contain asbestos.
To facilitate the clean-up effort, SafeWork NSW is dropping the five-day warning period for asbestos removal work, allowing for immediate clear up of asbestos residue from storm-damaged properties.
SafeWork NSW emphatically advises appointing a licenced asbestos removalist for the job to ensure adequate control measures are applied to safely eliminate asbestos and minimise possible exposure risk. In emergencies, trained experts like emergency services can tackle asbestos removal. Still, all employees can reduce their exposure to asbestos risks by refraining from some activities highlighted on the SafeWork NSW website.
Additional information on handling asbestos post-floods is provided on the NSW Asbestos Coordination Committee’s website. SafeWork NSW A/Deputy Secretary Trent Curtin also emphasises:
“Workplaces swamped with contaminated floodwater must be thoroughly sanitised and disinfected, and the significance of personal hygiene cannot be overstated. Always use clean water for hand washing and don protective clothing to avoid injuries from glass and other sharp objects potentially floating in polluted water.
Damaged electric and gas devices also pose a risk and must be avoided until certified safe by an electrician or plumber. If your workplace has asbestos building materials, licenced asbestos contractors should be engaged for any needed repairs or renovations.”
Key points to remember during clean-up and recovery include: incorporating safety measures such as the Bluesafe SWMS, maintaining regular rest breaks and hiring professional help when needed, especially in situations involving asbestos removal.
Original article link: https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/news/safework-media-releases/safework-nsw-urges-workplaces-to-beware-of-hazards-as-flood-cleanup-begins