KANSAS CITY, Mo. – In the aftermath of a tornado, workers may be involved in various response and recovery operations. The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration reminds first responders, recovery workers and people living in Kansas and Missouri impacted by tornadoes to be vigilant amid the many hazards that flooding, power loss, structural damage, fallen trees, and storm debris may create.
The following are general guidelines that may help workers and volunteers assess hazards and stay safe while cleaning up damage to their worksite.
Potential Hazards: Response and recovery work in tornado-impacted areas present safety and health hazards that should be properly identified, evaluated, and controlled in a systematic manner to reduce or eliminate occupational safety and health risks.
Some specific hazards associated with working in the aftermath of tornadoes include:
- Hazardous driving conditions because of debris and blocked roadways.
- Slips and falls on walkways or from heights.
- Falling and flying objects such as tree limbs and utility poles.
- Sharp objects, including nails and broken glass that cause serious injuries.
- Electrical hazards from downed power lines or objects in contact with power lines.
- Burns from fires caused by energized line contact or equipment failure.
- Fatigue from extended or irregular work shifts.
- Heat and dehydration from working outdoors for long hours.
OSHA offers a comprehensive website with safety tips to help employers and workers, including how to keep workers safe during flood cleanup. People involved in response and recovery efforts may call OSHA at 1-800-321-OSHA (6742) or visit OSHA.gov if you have safety and health concerns.