OSHA Warns of Hazards in Hurricane-Affected Areas
"In the wake of Hurricane Gustav, and now Ike, OSHA is ensuring that we reach as many people as possible with the information they need to stay safe while they help repair the damage done by these and any future storms," said Assistant Secretary of Labor for OSHA Edwin G. Foulke Jr. "We want everyone to keep in mind that strong winds and heavy rain can leave many dangers behind them, and employers and employees need to take the proper precautions to avoid serious injury."
The public service announcements, read by Assistant Secretary Foulke and others, and available in both English and Spanish, can be downloaded from the DOL’s Web site at
http://www.dol.gov/opa/media/audio
and OSHA's hurricane recovery Web site at
http://www.osha.gov/hurricane#PSA
. These messages inform listeners about hazards including falls from heights, carbon monoxide poisoning from generators, electrocution from fallen power lines, lacerations from tree trimming and automobile injuries from working around roadways.
Employers and employees looking for more information or with specific questions should call the department's toll-free helpline at 866-4-USA-DOL (487-2365).