Hurricane Recovery

Unexpected start-up of machines and equipment.
Noise due generators, heavy equipment, hand tools (i.e., chippers, chain saws) and other equipment.
Falls from heights and openings.
Health hazard exposures including as lead, asbestos, silica, and unknown chemicals.
Biohazard exposures from dead animals and human remains.
Slips, trips and fall hazards from materials and debris.
Manual handling of materials and debris.
Contamination of water, debris, equipment and other materials.
Heat stress, cold stress, sunburn, and general fatigue.
Animal bites, insects, and poisonous plants.

Use of competent person(s) to inspect and evaluate damaged structures and surrounding areas. By definition, a competent person means one who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees, and who has the authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them.
Set up limited and controlled access zones.
Install temporary structural support and barricades where applicable to protect affected employees.
Post warning signs and communicate hazards to affected employees.
Activities should be conducted outside damaged structures and away from other damaged areas.

Inspect and identify live electrical equipment and downed powerlines and take appropriate protective measures such as deenergizing circuits and use lockout/tagout procedures to prevent circuits from being reenergized, using ground-fault circuit interrupters where outlets are not part of permanent wiring, and using extension cords that are approved for their intended use.
Assess the presence and condition of tanks and equipment that have chemicals or flammable materials. If suspect, implement protective measures and establish a plan of action.
Inspect and identify issues with utilities such as gas and water lines. Contact appropriate utility companies to assist in locating, marking and shutting off lines where applicable.

A confined space Is large enough and so configured that an employee can bodily enter it; has limited or restricted means for entry and exit; and is not designed for continuous employee occupancy. A permit space had one or more of the following characteristics: Contains or has a potential to contain a hazardous atmosphere; contains a material that has the potential for engulfing an entrant; has an internal configuration such that an entrant could be trapped or asphyxiated by inwardly converging walls or by a floor which slopes downward and tapers to a smaller cross-section; or contains any other recognized serious safety or health hazard.
Before entry into a confined space, evaluate the need for entry and if needed, evaluate the space for physical and atmospheric hazards.
If permit - required, develop and implement an entry permit program.

Proper use and maintenance of PPE including fall protection systems and respirators.
Personal hygiene and general decontamination practices.
Site-specific rules, procedures, controls and practices.
Use of equipment and tools.
General site hazards and exposures.
Medical services and first aid procedures.
Injury and illness reporting.
Daily job briefings, before, during and after shift as needed.

Use of personal protective equipment such as hearing protection (noise) and body harness when using an aerial lift.
All operators of the equipment should be trained on their use.
Equipment should be inspected prior to use to ensure safe operating condition.
Roll-over protection should be provided as needed.
Equipment should not be modified without manufacturer's written approval.
For vehicles being loaded from the top, a canopy or cab shield needs to be provided to protect operator.

A site-specific plan should be developed for traffic control and traffic control patterns.
Establish limited access and control access areas for controlling traffic by the use of barricades, cones and other devices.
Provide established areas for foot traffic and ensure employees know to establish clear eye contact with equipment operators.
Establish communication methods (equipment, hand signals) for spotters and heavy equipment operators.
Provide signs, flashlights, high visibility apparel and gear, and other equipment to establish traffic control inside/outside the work areas.

Establish emergency and medical procedures to ensure immediate medical services as needed.
Provide and maintain adequate first aid supplies.
Ensure first aid and medical responders are properly trained.
Have emergency numbers posted and readily available.

Limit access and set up controlled areas around fall hazards.
Use fall protection systems including barricades, safety nets, personal fall arrest systems, and guardrails.
Cover or guard opening, holes, and open areas.