Construction workers who are confronted with working in flooded areas, or after a flood has occurred, are at risk for a number hazards, from contaminated water to downed electrical lines. Unexpected and extreme weather appears to be more and more common with special implications for construction sites.
Flooding can cause the disruption of water purification and sewage disposal systems, and dislodgement of hazardous materials stored above ground. This can cause sickness in workers who come in contact with contaminated floodwater. Floodwaters contaminated by agricultural or industrial chemicals or by hazardous agents present at flooded hazardous waste sites expose workers to toxins. Appropriate personal protection equipment is especially vital in these situations. Plastic or rubber gloves, boots, and other protective clothing needed to avoid contact with floodwater. Pools of standing or stagnant water also become breeding grounds for mosquitoes, increasing the risk of encephalitis, West Nile Virus or other mosquito-borne diseases as well as diseases carried by fleas and ticks.
Also, nearly half of flood fatalities are vehicle-related. Six inches of standing water is enough to stall some cars, a foot of water can float a vehicle, and two feet of moving water is enough to sweep a car away.
OSHA provides the following tips for construction workers exposed to flood-related sites:
Workers can expect to find standing water present throughout a flood zone. If water has been present anywhere near electrical circuits and electrical equipment, turn off the power at the main breaker or fuse on the service panel. Never enter flooded areas or touch electrical equipment if the ground is wet.
Workers repairing downed electrical lines must be aware of the hazards associated with maintenance on overhead lines, as well as the potential for emergency conditions to create additional hazards. Such work must be performed by utility company workers or other properly trained workers. Potential hazards include:
- Electrocution by contact with downed energized lines, or objects in contact with fallen lines.
- Falls from heights.
- Being struck or crushed by falling poles, towers and tree limbs.
- Being injured in vehicular accidents when responding to an emergency situation.
- Burns from fires caused by energized line contact or equipment failure.
Safety experts emphasize that workers should stay well clear of any downed or damaged power lines. Establish a safe distance from the lines and report the incident to the responsible authority.
For more construction safety information, contact our offices at Diversified Safety Services.
