Part 1-Warnings from The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

3/25/2019 (Permalink)

Woolsey fire devastation

NIOSH warns workers and volunteers of the potential dangers involved with cleanup operations following the devastation caused by forest fires.  

Because the level of experience varies among these workers, cleanup crews must work together and look out for one another to ensure safety.

NIOSH urgently requests your assistance in disseminating the following warnings to all those involved in cleanup work following forest fires.

The potential work-related hazards listed here are described below in greater detail: Fire, Electrical Hazards, Carbon Monoxide, Musculoskeletal Hazards, Thermal Stresses, Heavy Equipment, Structural Instability, Hazardous Materials, Confined Spaces, Power Line Hazards, Agricultural Hazards, Stress and Fatigue. Additional key resources on health and safety hazards related to fire fighting can be found on the NIOSH web site under the “spotlights” section titled “Fighting Wildfires” (http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/firefighting/).

General Considerations

Before cleanup operations are initiated, local and State government emergency policies and guidelines should be checked to determine if any restrictions exist (e.g., water use, discharge of waste water, disposal of debris).

POTENTIAL DANGERS INVOLVED IN CLEANUP OPERATIONS

Fire

Heat sources may remain as a result of smoldering wood or other debris that could reignite if contact is made with a combustible material or if oxygen becomes available. Workers and employers must therefore take extra precautions. At least two fire extinguishers, each with a UL rating of at least 10A, should be provided at every cleanup activity.

Electrical Hazards

NIOSH has investigated several work-related electrocution deaths following natural disasters. To prevent future electrocutions, NIOSH urges those involved in cleanup activities to take the following steps:

•  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. Do not turn the power back on until electrical equipment has been inspected by a qualified electrician. Never enter flooded areas or touch electrical equipment if the ground is wet, unless you are certain that the power is off. NEVER handle a downed power line. No not use electrical equipment that has been exposed to heat from the fire until checked by an electrician.
• When using gasoline and diesel generators to supply power to a building, switch the main breaker or fuse on the building service panel to the "off" position prior to starting the generator. This will prevent inadvertent energization of power lines from backfeed electrical energy from the generators, and help to protect utility line workers from possible electrocution.
• If clearing or other work must be performed near a downed power line, contact the utility company to discuss de-energizing and grounding or shielding of power lines; maintain a safe distance from the power lines until they have been deenergized. Extreme caution is necessary when moving ladders and other equipment near overhead power lines to avoid inadvertent contact. If you are working on or near power lines, refer to the additional recommendations provided in that section below. Be aware of possible fire damage to poles and other structures carrying overhead power lines.

Unstable Work Surfaces

Cleanup activities may involve walking on unstable surfaces such as construction debris, trees and other vegetation. Piles of debris and other unstable work surfaces create a risk for traumatic injury from slips, falls, puncture wounds from nails and sharp objects, and collapsing materials. Extreme caution is necessary when working on these surfaces. Protective equipment, such as hard hats, safety glasses, leather gloves, and steel toe boots should be considered to minimize the risk of injury.

Carbon Monoxide

Cleanup activities may involve the use of gasoline- or diesel-powered pumps, generators, and pressure washers. Because these devices release carbon monoxide, a deadly, colorless, odorless gas, operate all gasoline-powered devices outdoors and never bring them indoors. It is virtually impossible to assess adequate ventilation. NIOSH has investigated several carbon monoxide poisoning deaths in the past caused by the use of gasoline-powered engines indoors or in confined spaces. Be aware that high levels of carbon monoxide may occur in confined spaces from the fires. 

Musculoskeletal Hazards

Cleanup workers are at risk for developing serious musculoskeletal injuries to the hands, back, knees, and shoulders. Special attention is needed to avoid back injuries associated with manual lifting and handling of debris and building materials. To help prevent injury, use teams of two or more to move bulky objects, avoid lifting any material that weighs more than 50 pounds (per person), and use proper automated-assist lifting devices.

Thermal Stresses

Heat: Cleanup workers are at serious risk for developing heat stress. Excessive exposure to hot environments can cause a variety of heat-related problems, including heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps, and fainting. To reduce the potential for heat stress, drink a glass of fluid every 15 to 20 minutes and wear light-colored, loose- fitting clothing. Additionally, incorporate work-rest cycles into work routines, work during the cooler hours of the day, when possible, or distribute the workload evenly throughout the day. When air conditioning is unavailable, open windows and use fans.

Cold: If standing water is present from fire fighting be aware that working in water which is cooler than 75 degrees F (24 degrees C) will remove body heat more rapidly than it can be replaced, resulting in hypothermia. To reduce the risk of hypothermia, wear high rubber boots, ensure that clothing and boots have adequate insulation, avoid working alone, take frequent breaks out of the water, and change into dry clothing when possible.

Heavy Equipment

Only those properly trained should operate heavy equipment such as bulldozers, backhoes, and tractors. If you are operating this type of equipment, make sure you turn it off and block it against motion when not in use. Operators should be aware of the activities around them to protect other workers on foot from being struck by moving equipment. Heavy equipment operators should not exceed the load capacity of cranes and other lifting equipment and ensure that workers do not walk under areas where cranes and other heavy equipment are being used to lift objects.

Structural Instability

Fires can rearrange and damage natural walkways, as well as sidewalks, parking lots, roads, and buildings. Never assume that fire-damaged structures or ground are stable. Buildings that have been burned may have suffered structural damage and could be dangerous. Don t work in or around any building damaged by fire until it has been examined and certified as safe for work by a registered professional engineer or architect. Assume all stairs, floors, and roofs are unsafe until they are inspected. Leave immediately if you hear shifting or unusual noises as this may signal a possible collapse.

Hazardous Materials

Fires to commercial and residential buildings and water used to fight the fire can dislodge tanks, drums, pipes, and equipment, which may contain hazardous materials such as pesticides or propane. Containers may be damaged by fire and heat. Do not attempt to move unidentified dislodged containers without first contacting the local fire department or hazardous materials team. If working in potentially contaminated areas, avoid skin contact or inhalation of vapors by wearing appropriate protective clothing and respirators. Contact NIOSH for more information on the proper safety equipment. Frequently and thoroughly wash skin areas that may have been exposed to pesticides and other hazardous chemicals.

Look for Part II in our next Blog.