Hidden risk of the Flood

Hidden risk of the Flood

The floods in Australia have caused devastating damage, flooding farmland and towns alike.

Floodwater running through paddocks, commercial buildings and residential properties increases the risk for us and animals being exposed to various natural, artificial and synthetic contaminates.

Most people know that floodwaters often pick up and deposit contaminants such as sewage, animal carcasses and chemicals (e.g. oil, petrol). However, flooding also damages buildings that might contain asbestos (ACM) or lead.?These contaminants do not “water down” and therefore represent a heightened health risk during the clean-up process.

The clean-up process that follows a flood puts people at risk not only to catch diseases. Helpers, workers and volunteers, often unknowingly, without proper guidance and without safety gear, deal with invisible hazards such as toxic gases, chemicals, mould, asbestos and perhaps lead.

Mould finds the perfect breading ground in the damp conditions that follow a flood, being one of the main hazards.?With some types of mould causing serious health problems, it ?can represent the biggest health risk after a flood.

For anyone involved; property owners, business owners or volunteers; the risk of long-term damage caused by exposure to hazards is often overlooked.

So, what can you do to protect yourself from the hidden dangers of floodwaters?

If you're involved in the clean-up process, make sure you wear protective clothing, including gloves, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt. If possible, wear a mask or respirator to avoid breathing in any harmful particles. And be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after coming into contact with any floodwaters, residue or debris of building material.

If you are concerned about mould, lead or asbestos, it's best to get professional help. A qualified inspector can assess the risk and advise you on the best course of action.

HSE Australia is a proud team of versatile specialists, scientists, consultants, auditors and assessors.

Our people are experienced and accredited in a wide range of fields, from Asbestos Assessors, Forensic Chemistry, Environmental Science, and of course Workplace Health & Safety. This extensive combination of knowledge and skills enables us to

“Solve problems others find difficult”.