Hurricane Clean Up Protective Gear to Wear (Part2)

When it comes to selecting protective gear, usually your first step is to identify the hazards that you may face and then choose clothing that can help protect you from those dangers. However, this first step is substantially simplified when cleaning up after a major storm. You must select gear that can protect you from just about any hazard.

In many storm cleanup situations, wearing a helmet* is mandatory. Helmets are rarely worn in professional cleaning, but cleaning up after a storm has unique challenges and dangers. Besides falling objects hitting your head, you may slip and fall, bump your head against a fixed object, or expose yourself to an electrical wire.

Goggles are also essential, and the type of goggle to select is very important. Nonvented goggles will protect your eyes from splashes. A contaminated splash in your eye can result in serious illness. Antifog goggles will help keep your vision clear and make it less likely you will need to remove the goggles to clean them, which can put you at risk.

Similarly, we must wear gloves, but not any glove will do. Look for gloves that offer cut, slash, and liquid (chemical) protection. Also make sure they are water resistant.

As to the actual body clothing to wear, select waterproof and chemical-resistant protective gear. This will help reduce the risk of exposure to harmful bacteria or chemicals that are often found in floodwater. Protective body gear is traditionally based on the type of risk you might encounter. However, after a hurricane, we must be prepared to encounter any kind of hazard.

Finally, we must wear appropriate foot protection. In some cases, rubber boots will suffice. After very serious storm events, however, foot gear that can protect you from electricity, metal objects, chemicals, falling objects, punctures, and sharp objects, as well as wet or slippery surfaces, may be necessary. Protective shoes, as well as most protective clothing, should meet ANSI standards.** This certification will undoubtedly be noted on the product label and related product materials.

Inhalation Hazards

Inhalation is a danger that is often overlooked. Once a facility sustains water damage, mold can start growing on virtually any building material. Not only does it start growing, but it thrives in such moist situations.

Mold spores can be inhaled, land on your skin, get in your eyes, and cause a variety of health problems such as allergic reactions and infections. Along with mold, dust from damaged building materials can be a dangerous concern. Nonvented goggles, discussed earlier, will help protect your eyes, but you may need to also wear a respirator to protect your lungs. An N-95 respirator is often recommended, but once again, the most important thing is to select an ANSI- or a NIOSH-approved respirator.***