January 26, 2006

Dangers Associated With Cleanup and Recovery From Hurricanes

The following information provides a basic overview of the risks and associated health precautions to consider for workers involved in the cleanup/recovery efforts of a major hurricane.

Flooding can cause the disruption of water purification and sewage disposal systems, overflowing of toxic waste sites, and dislodgement of chemicals previously stored above ground. Although most floods do not cause serious outbreaks of infectious disease or chemical poisonings, they can cause sickness in workers and others who come in contact with contaminated floodwater.