OSHA Cautions for ASA members on the Eastern Seaboard

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has been supporting clean-up efforts in the wake of Hurrican Sandy.  ASA members who are affected, and who may still be in clean-up mode, should pay heed to the OSHA guidance about protecting employees from hazards.

With the passage of time, it is easy to forget about the hazards that remain in the wake of the storm.  It is particularly important to remember that new hazards can also arise, like contamination hazards.  Businesses should be cognizant of these hazards and should take steps to prottect employees from the hazards,

Common hazards include downed electrical wires, carbon monoxide and electrical hazards from portable generators, fall and “struck-by” hazards from tree trimming or working at heights, being caught in unprotected excavations or confined spaces, burns, lacerations, musculoskeletal injuries, being struck by traffic or heavy equipment, and encountering contaminated water during flood cleanup.

Protective measures involve evaluating the work area for all hazards; assuming all power lines are live; following safe practices when doing tree work; using fall protection and proper ladder safety when working at heights; task specific exposure monitoring; and utilizing proper precautions for traffic work zones.

http://www.osha.gov/sandy/index.html

OSHA has emergency aid for both employees and businesses.  Click here for a list of emergency aid available to those affected by the storm.

ASA’s sympathies go out to our affected mmebers.  If there is anything that the Association can do to assist, please feel free to contact us!

If you need to contact OSHA for an emergency situation, please call the toll-free hotline 1-800-321-OSHA.