OSHA urging caution amid Hurricane Helene cleanup efforts

Washington — OSHA is warning workers involved in the recovery efforts after Hurricane Helene to be aware of hazards caused by flooding, power outage, structural damage, fallen trees and storm debris.  

“People involved in recovery and cleanup activities should have experience and proper training and be familiar with related equipment,” a Department of Labor press release states.

Protective measures employers and workers should take include:

• Evaluate work areas for hazards.
• Assess the stability of structures and walking surfaces.
• Ensure the use of fall protection when working on elevated surfaces.
• Assume all power lines are live.
• Operate chainsaws, portable generators, ladders and other equipment properly.
• Use personal protective equipment, such as gloves; hard hats; and hearing, foot and eye protection.

“As our region seeks to restore our communities after a weather emergency like Hurricane Helene, it is important to remember the wide range of hazards storm recovery presents, particularly for emergency responders and recovery workers,” OSHA’s Atlanta Regional Administrator Kurt Petermeyer said in the release. “The risk of injuries and fatalities during cleanup can be reduced with knowledge, safe work practices and using proper personal protective equipment.

“Our safety professionals are ready to assist with questions about reducing hazards in the wake of this catastrophic storm.”