AFTER HURRICANE LALA

The wind and rain have passed, but for many of us across the islands, the real work is just getting started. Whether you’re clearing debris at home, drying out a business or helping a neighbor, take a few minutes before you dive in. Flood cleanup carries its own hazards, separate from the storm itself, and they’re easy to overlook when you’re focused on getting your space back.

OSHA has outlined the risks crews and homeowners should plan for during flood recovery, along with the protective steps that reduce them. Here’s what to know before you start.

Key Hazards After Flooding

Floodwater rarely looks as dangerous as it is. According to OSHA, cleanup crews and residents should watch for:

• Contaminated floodwater carrying bacteria, viruses, sewage, or hazardous waste
• Chemical exposure from industrial, agricultural, or household products swept up in the water
• Electrical hazards from downed power lines and damaged electrical systems
• Insect bites, animal bites, and other wildlife encounters
• Cuts, punctures, and wounds that can lead to infection or tetanus

What to Wear

The right protective equipment matters as much as the cleanup itself. OSHA recommends:

• Waterproof rubber or nitrile gloves
• Waterproof, slip-resistant boots
• Long-sleeved shirts and long pants to reduce skin exposure
• Safety goggles or splash-resistant eye protection
• Chemical-resistant gloves and clothing when chemicals may be present
• Insect repellent for outdoor cleanup areas

Safe Work Practices

Most flood cleanup injuries are preventable with a few simple precautions.

• Water safety. Assume all floodwater is contaminated unless local authorities confirm otherwise. Use only water that is known to be safe for drinking and washing.
• Electrical and chemical hazards. Stay away from downed power lines and damaged electrical equipment. Report unidentified containers, fuel tanks, or hazardous materials to emergency responders rather than handling them yourself.
• Hygiene. Wash hands with soap and clean water before eating, during breaks, and after cleanup. Clean and cover any cuts or puncture wounds right away.
• Insects and animals. Wear long sleeves and pants when practical and seek medical attention for animal bites or signs of illness.
• Medical precautions. Confirm your tetanus vaccination is current before starting cleanup. Seek medical care if you develop fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, skin rash, dizziness, signs of infection, or if a cut or wound has been exposed to floodwater.
• Protect Yourself Before You Clean Up. Wear the right personal protective equipment, practice good hygiene, avoid direct contact with floodwater, watch for electrical and chemical hazards, and get medical care when you need it. A little precaution now can prevent a much bigger problem later.

HEMIC’s Support

You don’t have to figure this out alone. HEMIC provides policyholders complimentary access to the HEMIC Safety Suite, with training resources and compliance tools for storm and flood recovery. Our Safety & Risk Management consultants are also available to help you build a cleanup plan specific to your workplace as recovery from Hurricane Lala continues.

Contact HEMIC Safety & Risk Management at safety@hemic.com or (808) 524-3642.

Download the OSHA Flood Cleanup Safety Flyer.

Source: OSHA Flood Cleanup Fact Sheet (OSHA 3471). This article is for general safety awareness; adapt guidance to your specific site conditions.