POTENTIAL DANGERS / EXPOSURES / HAZARDS and THREATS
In the world of disasters’, simply because a particular hazard or danger hasn’t presented its self, doesn’t mean it won’t.
Identification of the exposure, dangers, hazards & threats facing disaster personnel is a principle function of the Risk Management operation of the event.
Exposures: Exposure to existing hazards can come from almost any direction at any given time. Overhead hazards might include weakened tree limbs and power lines, wires, cords, etc. Hazards can also present themselves from below such as uneven terrain, holes or pits, weakened decks, rubble, etc. Hazards may also come from anywhere around you. A hazard impact may come literally anywhere within (360 degrees).
NOTE: Please refer to the following link for the “General Responder Safety” section within the sites Safety Directory. It will greatly expand on subject matter and other safety considerations.
Errors and Omissions:
Change is constant, especially in emergencies and disasters. In many instances, errors are made or information is left out or omitted. This ultimately will affect operations. Being mindful that they may occur at anytime can help minimize impact.
Understand and be cognizant of where you are in the course of any job location. As you move from site to site your hazard exposure may change. Become aware of hazards or threats adjacent to your site. Observe the possible threats that may be present when you arrive on site. Look for weakened overhead threats, building structures or any property that may become an obstacle to you.
The following a primary listings of hazards and exposures.
Physical Exposures
Physical exposures appear to be the most prevalent dangers and threats personnel will face in a disaster sites. Other physical threats and exposures are found within the following alphabetical broad Physical Exposure outline.
Debris Piles & Unstable Surfaces
Only walk on surfaces you know are stable
- Ensure Structural Integrity
- Do not enter questionable structures until they have been evaluated and rendered safe.
- Conduct all necessary activities from outside damaged structures.
- Ensure structures are evaluated by a competent person.
Watch for sharp edges and points
Slips, Trips, and Falls
- Wet or slippery surfaces
- Improper footwear
- Poor lighting
- Obstacles in pathway
- Ladders
- Changes in elevation or uneven surfaces (curbs, cracks, ramps, single steps, stairs)
Musculoskeletal Disorders & Injuries
Muscle strain, local fatigue, pain, or discomfort to the body caused by:
- Frequent heavy lifting
- Bending
- Twisting
- Kneeling
- Repetitive tasks
Ergonomic Considerations or Solutions
- Improve design of work stations
- Don’t lift or carry more than 50 pounds alone
- Minimize duration of repetitive motions and awkward postures
- Implement an appropriate job rotation system
Atmospheric Hazards:
Such hazards would include oxygen deficient environments as well as flammable/combustible/explosive environments.
These events include earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and landslides. Meteorological hazards occur as a result of processes in the atmosphere. Meteorological hazards include extreme temperatures, hurricanes, tornadoes, droughts, and severe storms. … Examples include floods, droughts, and tsunamis
Environmental Exposure:
Weather – lightning, excessive winds, temperature extremes, etc.
- Heat (Stress/Shock)
- Cold (Hypothermia)
Behavioral
Disaster Psychology: Behavior in Disasters: It has been found that people demonstrate varied stages or phases in response to a disaster.
Experience range of stressors during a response
Immediate or delayed response
Symptoms:
Physical (fatigue, nausea, headache)
Cognitive (Confusion, poor concentration)
Emotional (Anxiety, guilt, depression)
Behavioral (intense anger, withdrawal)
- Emotional Well-Being & Resiliency
- Pace yourself
- Take frequent rest breaks
- Watch out for each other
- Do something you enjoy
- Rest, sleep, eat and be active
Stress: Regardless of your role or position within the operation, we are all susceptible to the impact of traumatic stress. Your emotional condition factors into your safety and of those around you.
Sometimes the emotional aftershocks (or stress reactions) appear immediately after the traumatic event. Sometimes they may appear a few hours or a few days later. And, in some cases, weeks or months may pass before the stress reactions appear.
Stress symptoms present themselves in many ways. Physically, they may include fatigue or nausea, etc. Emotionally, one might experience anxiety or depression, etc. Some individuals may turn to alcohol, substance abuse and trigger domestic violence traits. Cognitively, one may become confused and experience memory losses, etc.
Confrontation/Aggressive Behavior: Under no circumstances are contract or sub-contract personnel to exhibit behavior that is deemed intimidating, degrading or personally believed threatening to others. Such individuals should be directed toward appropriate behavioral health specialists and authorities.
Critical Incident Stress & Trauma:
Ministry of Community Safety & Correctional Services
http://www.mpss.jus.gov.on.ca/english/pub_security/emo/fact_sheets/bg_crit_incident_stress.html
Biological Hazards & Exposures:
(The animal or plant life of regions) animals, insects, reptiles, etc.
Bloodbourne Pathogens
Pulverized Contamination: Such as those found at the 911 Terrorists attack sites.
Bloodborne Pathogens
- Assume blood or bodily fluids are potentially contaminated and/or infectious.
- Wear personal protective equipment.
- Consider Hepatitis B vaccination.
Bomb Threats & Suspicious Objects:
(See section in the Safety directory. Use the following link: General Responder Safety)
Building Safety:
Building Construction & Safety (NFPA 5000) (pdf)
http://www.nfpa.org/assets/files/PDF/C3/Firefighters.pdf
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning:
- Colorless, odorless, toxic gas
- Combustion fumes from
- -Cars, trucks, heavy machinery
- -Small gasoline-powered engines
- -Burning wood or charcoal
- -Temporary space heaters
- -Gas ranges, stoves & heating systems
- Symptoms include headache, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, loss of consciousness, collapse, coma, or death
Chemical:
(See section in the Safety directory. Use the following link: General Responder Safety)
Collapses & Cave-in:
Besides building structural considerations make sure you beware of trench collapses and cave-ins
Confined Spaces:
- What are confined spaces?
- Space with limited access & egress
- Large enough for bodily entry
- Not designed for occupancy
- Examples: sewers, wells, storm drains, tanks, vats, boilers, silos, pits, tunnels
What are confined space hazards?
- Hazardous atmosphere
- Flammable/explosive gases, vapors or mists
- Toxic substances
- Oxygen deficiency of surplus
- Entrapment
- Engulfment
“AVOID CONFINED SPACES”
Disaster Sites:
Issues of navigation can be confusing especially when known markers and signage is missing.
Driving in Disaster Areas
- Use a seat belt at all times.
- Avoid distractions.
- Stay alert to situations requiring quick action.
- Watch for emergency vehicles.
- Watch for other drivers and flaggers.
- Avoid driving through floodwaters.
Dust & Flying Debris:
- Be alert to hazards from nearby workers’ machinery, and falling of shifting debris.
- Wear safety glasses with side shields. (ANSI Certified if at all possible)
- Consider wearing goggles for protection against dust particles or for use over prescription glasses.
- Wear hard hats, safety shoes, and work gloves.
Dust Containing asbestos, Silica, and Other Particulates
- Dust may contain hazardous materials
- Avoid dust-generating activities and wet area.
- Wear personal protective equipment.
Electrical Exposure Safety:
Energized power lines, mechanical electrical system failure, etc.
http://www.aepcustomer.com/safety/emergencyResponders.htm
Utility Hazards
- Treat all power lines and cables as if they are energized until proven otherwise by qualified personnel.
- Stay clear of down electrical lines
- Gas lines, water pipes, sewer lines, and other utilities may also be compromised.
Fire Rescue Response Safety:
Fire House
Foodborne Disease:
- Practice hand hygiene before eating.
- Assure that your food is from a safe source.
- Identify and throw away any food that may not be safe to eat.
- Store food safely.
- Only drink from potable water sources proven to be safe.
Hazardous Materials / Chemical Concerns for Responders/Workers:
Hazardous Materials: In the course of monitoring recovery operations, one may observe the presence of varied household hazardous waste and other materials not suitable for disposal at debris sites or certain landfills. It is unlikely that you would ever come in direct contact with these materials but we hope you have received some hazardous materials recognition tools that you may use to keep you from harm’s way. Should you ever have any concerns regarding exposure to hazardous waste, contact your supervisor immediately.
OSHA: 29CFR 1910-120 Hazwopper: Under this reference, first responders must take at minimum an awareness level course which aids them in the proper recognition and protocol when coming onto a scene which may involve hazardous chemicals or materials.
It would be advisable for anyone who may work in a disaster site to take this awareness level course. In disasters, hazardous materials and wastes may become displaced, mixed with other materials and show up in unexpected areas. Awareness level training may serve to help minimize exposures.
Chemical Spills: (Operation Respond Emergency Information System)
http://www.chemicalspill.org/EResponders/tools1.html
Emergency Response Guidebook (USDOT)
Heavy Equipment/Mechanical Operations:
Loaders, bobcats, tractors, etc. By their very nature, such equipment can pose a danger to operators and other personnel. Ensure that only trained and qualified individuals operate such equipment.
Most debris management operations involve various heavy equipment and systems. In the course of using such equipment, please recognize the presence of electrical power lines, telephone/communication lines, cable television lines, private property fences, mailboxes, and the possibility of existing gas lines, water mains and irrigation plumbing as well as septic system lines and drain fields.
Health Monitoring & Surveillance:
Emergency Responder Health Monitoring and Surveillance (ERHMS)
Mold:
- Flooded buildings and debris promote mold growth.
- Symptoms include sneezing, coughing, nasal/eye/skin irritation, and asthma-like symptoms.
- Personal protective equipment is needed and depends on the amount of contamination and work activities.
Noise:
Exposure to High Noise Levels
- A worksite is noisy if you have to shout to be heard.
- High noise levels are generated from gas-powered saws, pneumatic tools and heavy construction equipment.
- Wear appropriate hearing protection in noisy work environments.
Personnel Accountability:
Disaster event I.D.:
Background Checks:
Personnel Protective Equipment (PPE):
(See section in the Safety directory. Use the following link: General Responder Safety)
Wear protective equipment (e.g., Safety shoes with slip resistant soles, hard hat, suitable gloves, eye protection, etc)
Public Health Safety:
Water & Food Safety: The disasters have impacted our food and water supplies. We must be aware of water contamination orders issued by local and state public health departments. Food safety is mostly at risk during periods of sustained power outages. These are guidelines under which individuals should discard foodstuffs when refrigeration is required. Shelf life of other food supplies is typically identified on the cartons and containers they are packaged in. Don’t ignore warnings or instructions for your safety.
Mass Fatality Safety:
(See section in the Safety directory. Use the following link: General Responder Safety)
Radiation:
(See section in the Safety directory. Use the following link: General Responder Safety)
Railroad Response & Safety:
(See section in the Safety directory. Use the following link: General Responder Safety)
Rehabilitation:
The fire services treat rehab with great reverence and the rest of the disaster response communities should follow suit.
Resident / Pedestrian Safety:
Understand that in the course of normal disaster recovery operations that we are working in the presence of residents and citizens of the areas being struck by disaster. Use the most courteous and respectful means of communicating with these individuals.
Try to relay the message to residents that you are working in their area and are performing tasks and where necessary, when such work may pose a threat to them and others. Advise them to use care in traveling in and out of their premises while debris removal operations are underway.
Many routes will be through residential areas with children, and others. If their homes have been inspected and found habitable, victims and families may have nowhere else to go. Their safety is paramount. Take the time necessary to ensure they are always thought of in the course of your work.
If you witness residents and personnel moving in and around your operation, cease operations until they move safely from the area.
Responder Health & Safety:
USFA
Responder Illness/Exposure Statistics:
Safety Stand Downs:
Schools:
Private Firm: http://www.schoolsecurity.org/terrorist_response.html
(See section in the Safety directory. Use the following link: General Responder Safety)
School Violence:
(See section in the Safety directory. Use the following link: General Responder Safety)
Security:
Private Source
Terrorism:
(See section in the Safety directory. Use the following link: General Responder Safety)
Thermal:
Heat Stress
- Contributing conditions
- -High temperature and humidity
- -Direct sun or heat exposure
- -Physical exertion
- -Clothing (e.g., PPE)
- -Poor physical condition
- -Heat-related disorders
- -Heat rash
- -Fainting
- -Heat cramps
- -Heat exhaustion
- -Heat stroke
Heat Stress Prevention
- Stay hydrated (1 cup of water or sports drink every 20 minutes)
- Watch for signs and symptoms of heat related illnesses
- Reduce work load/adjust work schedule
- Take frequent breaks in cool areas
- Wear lightweight, light colored, loose fitting cloths.
- Avoid alcohol, caffeinated drinks or heavy meals.
Tools & Equipment:
The list of possibly utilized tools can be extensive. Such tools should only be used or operated by trained personnel. A disaster site is not the place to to use unfamiliar tools and equipment.
Chain Saws: Use extreme care in utilizing chainsaws and other cutting devices that you safeguard yourself and others around you. Use personal protective equipment such as proper work clothing, work shoes, gloves and appropriate safety eye wear.
Transportation:
ERG (USDOT)
Training:
Fire-Rescue, Emergency Medical Services, Law Enforcement-Security and Public Health & Safety have a good handle on the necessary training needed to assure the safety of their personnel as they are most likely involved in responding as part of their daily routine and expertise.
There exists outlined regulations, standards and guidelines specifically detailing what training levels and frequency is required for specific positions and functions.
Training Requirements / Competency:
Awareness Level, etc, (OSHA Hazawopper 29CFR 1910-120
(Office of Disaster Preparedness (ODP)
Orientation
Pre-Deployment
What training is put into play when a disaster is declared: NRP:- NIEH
Training Safety Exercise:
In some events with tactics that may have never been attempted to accomplish response activities, we may be subject to perform field exercises or operations in preparation for an actual response.
These are critical circumstances that must have the attention of all concerned. Field exercises in an actual disaster event. There are numerous types and forms of disaster response exercises and there are dedicated written works on this very subject.
Whole Community Approach for National Level Exercise: Exercises can involve a simple call down from a reverse communications telephone system, to a table top exercise at a local county (or private) Emergency Operations Center (EOC). In 2011, (National Level Exercise), The Great State of Kentucky undertook the nation’s largest emergency exercise; which was focused on a mock 7.7 magnitude earthquake. This was to test the nation’s response to a catastrophic earthquake. In turn its hoped that with all the feedback will lead to the creation of a new “Emergency Operations’ Plan”.
Ref: http://www.emergencymgmt.com/training/Kentucky-Enlists-Community-National-Level-Exercise-2011.html
Vehicle Incident Response & Roadway Safety:
The most extensive roadway safety guidelines and training stems from the massive work and dedication from the National Responder Safety Institute.
Vehicle Operations Safety– cars, trucks, etc.
Respondersare at significant risk on roadways. Make sure to follow all guidelines barriers, signals, etc.
Contract and sub-contract personnel shall assure adherence to all pertinent traffic regulations and guidelines as specified through state and federal laws and statutes. Be sure to recognize the presence of other vehicles. Also, please recognize the presence of pedestrians, and structures, which may pose any concern for operating a motor vehicle safely.
Responder Roadway Safety
http://www.respondersafety.com/
USFA Roadway Operations Safety
http://www.usfa.fema.gov/research/safety/roadway.shtm
FHWA: https://ops.fhwa.dot.gov/eto_tim_pse/index.htm
Volunteers:
National Association of Volunteer Firefighters
(See section in the Safety directory. Use the following link: General Responder Safety)
WMD:
CBRNE
Encapsulated / All Hazards Considerations
Secondary Devices
Working Hours (Extended Hours of Operations):
Extended or unusual work shifts. Normal work shifts generally are no more than eight consecutive hours per day, five days a week with at least a 1/8 hour rest. Many disaster recovery operations require long or unusual shifts.
Be aware of fatigue, it is a message to the body to rest. Over exertion can trigger negative mental and physical symptoms. Examples include but are not limited to: sleeplessness, irritability, depression, reduced alertness etc.
