Prepare Your Small Business for Natural Disasters

Presented by:
Bernard L. Fontaine, Jr., CIH, CSP, FAIHA
The Windsor Consulting Group, Inc.,
American Industrial Hygiene Association, and
National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health

Wildfire
Earthquake
Tornado
Landslide
and Mudslide
Hurricane
Severe Storm
and Flooding
Lightening

• Natural disasters are something that
can happen anytime, anywhere.
• Sometimes they can be predicted,
other times they come out of nowhere,
so it is essential to have a disaster
emergency plan in place.
• While people often think to do this for
their homes, they often neglect to do
so for their small business. However, 1
in 3 small business owners say they
have been affected by a natural
disaster in some way, and the global
economy suffers losses of billions of
dollars each year as a result.

FACTS
• In the 2014 U.S. natural disaster
forecast, there is:
• 79% chance that a tropical storm
will make landfall
• 68% probability of a category 1-3
hurricane
• 52% probability of a category 4-5
hurricane
• Why take the chance? Small
business owners can take a few
simple steps to prepare
themselves for an event like this.

Table of Contents
• Preface
• Incident Command System (ICS)
• General Response Resources
• Tornado Specific Hazards
• Structural damage and debris
• Electrical hazards
• Natural gas and other fuels
• Hazardous materials and (asbestos, lead, petroleum products, etc.)
• Temperature extremes - heat stress and cold stress
• Carbon monoxide (CO)
• Water damage
• Other biological hazards and infectious agents
• Radiation from smoke detectors and exit lighting

Table of Contents
• Flood Hazards
• Electrical Hazards
• Hazardous Materials and Conditions
• Mold and Microbial Growth
• Food and DrinkingWater
• Personal Protective Equipment
• Wildfire Specific Hazards
• During aWildfire orVolcanic Eruption
• Inspection Prior to Re-occupancy After a Wildfire
• Re-occupancy After aWildfire
• Cleaning After a Wildfire
• Restoration After a Wildfire
• Structural Instability
• Identify and Handle Human Remains
• Musculoskeletal Hazards

Lesson Outcomes
• Define and give examples of each of the following types of hazard (a)
geologic hazard, (b) atmospheric hazard, (c) catastrophic hazard, (d)
rapid onset hazard, (e) slow onset hazard.
• What are some of the hazards associated with natural disasters?
• Explain the difference between primary, secondary, and tertiary
effects of possible hazards.
• What is the relationship between size of natural events, disasters, and
frequency of disasters? What is the concept of recurrence interval?
• What kind of precautions should workers, volunteers, public, and
other stakeholders take to protect themselves in responding to a
natural disaster?
• Name some of the environmental concerns related to a natural
disaster.

Classification of Natural Hazards and
Disasters
• Geologic Hazards are the main subject of this course and
include:
• Earthquakes
• Volcanic eruptions
• Tsunami
• Landslides
• Floods
• Subsidence
• Atmospheric hazards are natural hazards but occur in the
atmosphere and include:
• Tropical cyclones
• Tornadoes
• Droughts
• Severe thunderstorms
• Lightening

Classification of Natural Hazards and
Disasters
• Other Natural Hazards may occur naturally, but don't fall in to either of the
categories above.They are not considered to any great extent in this course,
but include:
• Insect infestations
• Disease epidemics
• Wildfires
• Natural Hazards can also be divided into catastrophic hazards, which have
devastating consequences to huge numbers of people, or have a worldwide
effect, such as impacts with large space objects, huge volcanic eruptions,
world-wide disease epidemics, and world-wide droughts. Catastrophic
hazards have a small chance of occurring, but can have devastating results.
• Natural Hazards can also be divided into rapid onset hazards, such as volcanic
eruptions, earthquakes, flash floods, landslides, severe thunderstorms,
lightening, and wildfires, which develop with little warning and strike rapidly.
Slow onset hazards, like drought, insect infestations, and disease epidemics
take years to develop.

Effects of Natural Hazards and Disasters
Hazardous process of all types can have primary, secondary, and
tertiary effects.
• Primary Effects occur as a result of the process itself. For example water
damage during a flood or collapse of buildings during an earthquake, landslide,
or hurricane.
• Secondary Effects occur only because a primary effect has caused them. For
example, fires ignited as a result of earthquakes, disruption of electrical power
and water service as a result of an earthquake, flood, or hurricane, or flooding
caused by a landslide into a lake or river.
• Tertiary Effects are long-term effects that are set off as a result of a primary
event.These include things like loss of habitat caused by a flood, permanent
changes in the position of river channel caused by flood, crop failure caused by
a volcanic eruption etc.

Vulnerability to Hazards and Disasters
• Vulnerability refers the way a hazard or disaster will affect human
life and property. Vulnerability to a given hazard depends on:
• Proximity to a possible hazardous event
• Population density in the area proximal to the event
• Scientific understanding of the hazard
• Public education and awareness of the hazard
• Existence or non-existence of early-warning systems and lines of communication
• Availability and readiness of emergency infrastructure
• Construction styles and building codes
• Cultural factors that influence public response to warnings

Risk Assessment of Hazards and Disasters
Hazard Assessment consists of determining the following:
• When and where hazardous processes have occurred in the past.
• Severity of the physical effects of past hazardous processes (magnitude).
• Frequency of occurrence of hazardous processes.
• Likely effects of a process of a given magnitude if it were to occur now,
and
• Making all this information available in a form useful to planners and
public officials responsible for making decisions in event of a disaster.

Definitions
Fire orVolcanic Eruption
• A fire or volcanic eruption can be a disaster any time, but if a fire breaks
out, it is important to have a plan in place to safely remove employees
from the situation. ER plans should address rescue and recovery efforts
and public health exposure issues if volcanos are active in the area.
• A company with a good emergency preparedness plan will be able to get
employees out of the way quickly.
• Fire drills are essential in order to ensure that employees know how to
get out of their building safely.
Tornadoes
• A tornado can form anywhere in the right type of weather conditions.
They can be extremely destructive. Offices or areas that prone to
tornadoes should have a specific emergency plan. A workers' safety plan
should clearly outline where personnel can safely seek refuge.

Definitions
Hurricane
• Hurricanes are a powerful force of nature capable of inflicting a lot of
damage to homes and businesses and harming people out in the storm.
• These powerful storms are almost always tracked and forecasted in
advance, so many employees can stay home or evacuate, when possible.
• But some employees, such as doctors or nurses, must remain on duty,
shelter in-place, and provide services during the weather emergency.
Biological or nuclear attack
• Planning for a biological or nuclear attack is nearly impossible, but if the
situation does arise, employees can reduce the amount of exposure they
have companies are already prepared for a chemical attack than other
industries when it comes to emergencies.

Definitions
Earthquake
• A strong earthquake can be very destructive, and if one hits during
business hours it is essential that public and workers know how to
respond in order to protect themselves and minimize injuries.
• When an earthquake begins, people should know that the safest thing to
do is drop to the ground and cover their neck and head with their arms.
• Trying to move around during an earthquake is likely to result in injuries,
so evacuation of a building is not recommended while the event is
occurring.
• After the shaking stops, workers should follow the area’s civil defense or
company’s evacuation plan to safely remove themselves from the
building.

Definitions
Flooding
• A flood can occur after hours of heavy rain, while a flash flood can
happen in mere moments without warning.
• Anyone present during a flood needs to know how to evacuate the
building and retreat to higher ground.
• The emergency preparedness plan should emphasize that workers or
public should not enter any running flood waters.
• If a flood is imminent, someone needs to know how to safely turn off the
electricity to prevent injury from electrocution.
Severe storms
• Severe storms may come with rain and lightning or heavy snow and ice.
Storms are often forecasted but can become more severe than predicted;
it is important to keep workers and public safe.This may include not
coming to work or having provisions available if people cannot evacuate.

Definitions
Avalanche
• An avalanche is a large mass of snow, ice, or debris from a mountain
slope and sliding or falling suddenly downward.
• Avalanche terrain is any slope steeper than 30 degrees. It doesn’t matter
if it is a big or a very small slope. It doesn’t matter if it is an open slope or
one with trees. If it is steeper than 30 degrees, it can produce an
avalanche.
• In general, most avalanches occur during storms or during the 24-48
hours following one.
• All employers whose workers travel through, work around, or within a
potential avalanche hazard zone to have a qualified person conduct a risk
assessment; develop and implement avalanche safety plans; and the
proper training.
• Reschedule work assignments when risk is intolerable or unacceptable
due to imminent danger of an avalanche.

Definitions
Landslide
• A wide range of ground movement, such as rock falls, deep failure of
slopes, and shallow debris flows. Although gravity acting on an over-
steepened slope is the primary reason, there are contributing factors:
• erosion by rivers, glaciers, or ocean waves create over steepened slopes
• rock and soil slopes weakened through saturation by snowmelt or heavy rains
• earthquakes create stresses that make weak slopes fail
• earthquakes of magnitude 4.0 and greater can trigger landslides
• volcanic eruptions produce loose ash deposits, heavy rain, and debris flows
• excess weight from accumulation of rain or snow, stockpiling of rock or ore,
from waste piles, or man-made structures stress weak slopes to fail
• Slope material saturated with water may result in slurry of rock and mud to
pick up trees, houses, and cars, block bridges and tributaries causing flooding
along its path.

Incident Command System (ICS)
• When there is an incident, such as a natural or man-made
disaster, an Incident Command System (ICS) is typically
established for response command, control, and coordination.
• ICS is a nationally-recognized framework under which all
involved or interested entities and stakeholders (whether
federal, tribal, state, local, or private) operate.
• It establishes one command structure with known and
scheduled deliverables and uses standardized terminology.

• Because the ICS is mandated for disaster response agencies such
as the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and U.S. Coast Guard
(USCG), it is important to note that the ICS may be in place and
active in your area, even if the response phase is over and the
recovery phase has begun.
• It is often best to start by performing a search on an internet
search browser for "ICS Liaison" and the name of the event or
location to see if the ICS has a website set up.
• If this does not yield an established website for your response,
go to www.disasterassistance.gov and enter the address of the
affected property.

• If the area has been declared for individual assistance, you may
contact FEMA directly:
• Call 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET, 7 days a week:
• *1-800-621-FEMA (1-800-621-3362)
• *TTY 1-800-462-7585
• *711 orVRS 1-800-621-3362
• *You can also email: FEMA-ContactUs@fema.dhs.gov (get a
response in 1 to 2 business days) or write to:
• FEMA, P.O. Box 10055
• Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055
• This step is important - ICS may provide invaluable data about
what is happening before returning to your home or business.

Tornado and Earthquake
Specific Hazards
• Tornado cleanup activities can be hazardous.
• Emergency-response directors and supervisors should be aware
of the potential dangers involved, and should establish and
enforce proper safety programs. Injuries and illnesses in the line
of duty are preventable.
• Workers and volunteers involved with tornado cleanup should
be aware of the potential dangers involved, and the proper
safety precautions.

Specific Hazards
• Work-related hazards that could be encountered include:
electrical hazards, carbon monoxide exposures, musculoskeletal
hazards, heat stress, motor vehicle and large machinery
accidents, hazardous materials, fire, confined spaces and falls.
Links to information about hazards associated with tornadoes
and other natural disaster cleanup can be found below.
• This information is intended to help employers and workers
prepare in advance for anticipated response activities, and to
prevent work-related injuries and illnesses in the field once
rescue, recovery, and clean-up begin.

Specific Hazards
•Structural Damage and Debris
•Air Quality and Carbon Monoxide
•Generator Safety and Cleanup Hazards
•Confined Spaces
•Natural Gas and Other Fuels
•Electrical Hazards
•Falls and Fire
•Hazardous Materials
•Heat Stress
•Identifying and Handling Human Remains
•MotorVehicles and Machine Safety
•Musculoskeletal Hazards
•Protective Equipment and Clothing
•Stress and Fatigue
•Tree Removal / Chain Saws and West NileVirus

Specific Hazards
• Hazardous materials and conditions may a result of damaged
building materials containing lead or asbestos as well as
sewage-contaminated items, or hazardous materials such as
mercury switches, chemicals or cleaning products. In many
cases, these building materials are damaged and dislodged,
resulting in the potential for airborne exposure to fibers, vapors
and particles. Homeowners should be aware of this hazard, and
take extra precautions when encountering these materials.
• In addition, the release of petroleum products, such as heating
oil and gasoline stored in the garage or in a vehicle, into a home
or other building can lead to airborne contamination as well as
contamination of the building materials, soil, and groundwater.

Temperature Extremes –
Heat or Cold Stress
• Extreme heat or cold conditions
may occur during emergency
situations and be exacerbated
by loss of heating and cooling
during power outages.
• People also tend to work harder
than usual when responding to
an emergency, so the body may
not be acclimated to a heavy
workload under temperature
extremes.

Temperature Extremes – Cold Stress
• Workers who are exposed to extreme cold or work in cold
environments may be at risk of cold stress.
• Extreme cold weather is a dangerous situation that can bring on
health emergencies in susceptible people, such as those without
shelter, outdoor workers, and those who work in an area that is
poorly insulated or without heat.
• What constitutes cold stress and its effects vary across different
areas of the country. In regions relatively unaccustomed to cold
weather, near freezing temperatures are considered factors for
cold stress.Whenever temperatures drop below normal and as
wind speed increases, heat can rapidly leave your body.These
weather conditions may lead to serious health problems.

Some tips for working under cold conditions include:
• Even 60 degrees F can be “cold” when a person is also wet.
• Wear a warm head, face and ear covering and layered clothing:
• 1st layer - material that allows the skin to breathe by allowing sweat to
escape such as polypropylene or knitted silk.
• 2nd layer - material that absorbs perspiration, but does not allow heat to
escape such as polypropylene fleece or other synthetic fibers.
• 3rd layer - material that traps body heat and keeps water or dampness
out such as quilted coats filled with down or a lightweight microfiber and
have a waterproof outer layer. If the coat is not waterproof, wear a
water-resistant shell or windbreaker.

• The outer layer should include provisions for:
• Ventilation to prevent inner layers from becoming wet from sweat.
• For higher wind speeds and lower temperatures in the work area, higher
insulation values of protective clothing are required
• Wear waterproof boots to protect feet. If boots have liners,
replace them when damp.
• Wear gloves or preferably mittens to protect hands. Replace when damp.
• When working outside in a snow and/or ice-covered terrain, wear special
safety glasses with side shields or goggles to protect against UV light,
glare, and blowing ice crystals.

• Drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids to prevent dehydration and
exhaustion. Heated drinks are helpful, limit intake of caffeine.
• Take regular breaks to get out of the cold environment.
• When taking a break, remove at least the outer layer of clothing
and loosen remaining layers to permit sweat to evaporate.
• If clothing is wet, change into dry clothes before going outside.
• Recognize hypothermia’s warning signs:
• In adults – shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory
loss, slurred speech and drowsiness
• In infants – bright red, cold skin; very low energy

• Hypothermia is an emergency that can lead to death.
• If a person has the above symptoms and his or her temperature
is below 95 degrees Fahrenheit, call for emergency assistance.
• Gently move the victim to a warm area and begin warming him
or her.
• Other temperature related illness from cold stress include:
• Frostbite
• Chilblains
• Trench Foot

Temperature Extremes – Heat Stress
• Workers exposed to extreme heat or work in hot environments
may be at risk of heat stress.
• Exposure to extreme heat can result in occupational illnesses
and injuries.
• Heat stress can result in heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat
cramps, or heat rashes.
• Heat can also increase the risk of injuries in workers as it may
result in sweaty palms, fogged-up safety glasses, and dizziness.
• Burns may also occur as a result of accidental contact with hot
surfaces or steam.

• Extreme heat conditions may occur during emergency
situations and be exacerbated by loss of heating and cooling
during power outages.
• People also tend to work harder than usual when responding to
an emergency, so the body may not be acclimated to a heavy
workload under temperature extremes.
• Some tips for working under hot conditions include:
• Keep hydrated. Frequently drink small amounts of water, even before
you get thirsty.
• Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and drinks with high sugar content.
• Eat light, non-greasy meals.

• Wear light-weight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
• Schedule heavy tasks earlier in the day or at a time during the day when
the heat index is lower.
• Take frequent rest breaks in a shaded or cool area.
• Recognize heat stress signs and symptoms:
• Heat exhaustion - heavy sweating; cool, moist skin; fast, weak pulse with
fast shallow breathing; paleness; faintness; cramping; tiredness; headache;
dizziness; nausea; or vomiting
• Heat stroke - no sweating; red, hot, dry skin; rapid, strong pulse; dizziness;
nausea; headache; confusion; uncontrolled twitching; or unconsciousness

• Recognize heat stress signs and symptoms:
• Heat cramps - usually occur in the abdomen, arms, or legs
• Heat rash - painful, red cluster of pimples or small blisters most likely on
neck, upper chest, groin area, under breast, or at the elbow or knee creases
• Rhabdomyolysis is associated with heat stress and prolonged physical
exertion, resulting in rapid breakdown, rupture, and death of muscle.
• Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are emergencies that can lead to death.
• Call for emergency assistance.Then, gently move the victim to a cool and/or
shady area. Loosen clothing, remove footwear, and elevate legs.
• Cool the victim by using cool water or cold packs; in low humidity, wet
cloths can be used.

Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ)
• Workers are concerned about symptoms or health conditions
from exposures to contaminants in buildings.
• Research has shown some respiratory symptoms and illnesses
can be associated with damp buildings, it’s still unclear what
indoor contaminants show workers are at risk for disease.
• Indoor environments are complex and building occupants may
be exposed contaminants from office machines, cleaning
products, construction activities, carpets and furnishings,
perfumes, cigarette smoke, water-damaged building materials,
microbial growth, insects, and outdoor pollutants.
• Workers with persistent or worsening symptoms should seek a
medical evaluation to establish a diagnosis and treatment.

Air Contaminants – Carbon Monoxide
• Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that is a
combustion byproduct.
• CO is a chemical asphyxiant that interferes with body’s ability to
re-oxygenate blood and is common, unfortunate cause of death.
• Homes and commercial structures fueled by a hydrocarbon such
as natural gas, propane, or fuel oil will generate CO during
combustion.
• This is true during peak, seasonal heating demand, such as
winter months, when homes or buildings may not exchange as
much outdoor air.

Air Contaminants – Carbon Monoxide
• Gasoline- and diesel-powered generators, pumps, and pressure
washers all release CO. Operate these machines outdoors and
never inside confined spaces.
• Physical damage to home or building, such as following a
tornado or earthquake, may damage or compromise the
combustion venting apparatus on furnaces and water heaters.
• Inadequate venting or excessive or poorly mixed combustion
may result in a CO build up in a home or building and creates a
significant risk to its occupants.
• Signs and symptoms of CO poisoning may include: dull
headache, weakness, dizziness, nausea or vomiting, shortness
of breath, confusion, blurred vision, and loss of consciousness

Generator Safety
• When power lines are down, residents can restore energy to
their homes or other structures by using another power source
such as a portable generator.
• Portable generators must be vented outdoors to prevent
exposure to carbon monoxide and other petroleum hydrocarbon
emissions.
• If water has been present anywhere near electrical circuits and
electrical equipment, turn off the power at the main breaker or
fuse on the service panel.
• Do not turn the power back on until electrical equipment has
been inspected by a qualified electrician.

Safely Remove Debris
• Debris and downed trees can hide electrical lines, which carry a
risk of electrocution.
• Falling tree limbs and improper use of chainsaws and wood
chippers present additional hazards.
• Proceed with caution around debris, and use proper protective
equipment when operating power tools like chainsaws.
• Slips, trips, and falls are other common hazards when clearing
debris.
• Watch your step on slippery and uneven surfaces.

Water Damage from Natural Disasters
• Rain is often associated with hurricanes and results in tidal
surges, river overflows, and flooding.
• High humidity levels in the outdoor air also can contribute to
microbial growth on building surfaces.
• If possible, wet or damp building materials and contents should
be dried as soon as possible (preferably within 24-48 hours) to
prevent mold growth.
• If the electrical power service is not available in the 24-48 hours
following the event, mold and bacterial contamination should
be expected in areas where water impaction has occurred.

• If the overall amount of impacted materials is less than about 10
square feet, CDC has guidance for homeowners and renters for
entry and clean-up.
• http://www.cdc.gov/mold/pdfs/homeowners_and_renters guide.pdf
• EPA has guidance on how to address mold clean-up on your own
at Health and Safety Issues in Natural Disasters
• https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/201408/documents/flood_bo
oklet_en.pdf
• Read the label and follow all manufacturer’s recommendations
when using any chemical disinfectant for cleaning purposes
because of the significant risk for adverse respiratory and skin
effects due to caustic nature of chemicals used in cleaning.

• FEMA notes its guidance on cleaning flooded buildings found at:
• https://www.fema.gov/media-librarydata/1381405548275-
ec9f9b9de186f1874b92ecda6c33182b/SandyFactsheet1CleaningFlooded
Bldgs_508_FINAL2.pdf
• While bleach is convenient as a cleaner and stain remover for
hard, nonporous items, it has distinct drawbacks when cleaning
water-damaged materials.
• Many types of bleach are not EPA-registered as a disinfectant.
• Bleach’s effectiveness in killing bacteria and mold is significantly
reduced when in contact with residual dirt, often present after a
disaster.

• If bleach water comes contacts electrical components and other
metal parts of mechanical systems it can cause corrosion.
• Bleach water can also compromise the effectiveness of termite
treatments in the soil surrounding the building.
• If significant mold or other sewage contamination has occurred,
however, it’s recommended that business owners and
homeowners seek professional guidance before attempting to
clean large amounts of contaminated materials.
• Industrial hygienists and other safety and health professionals
can anticipate health and safety concerns and design solutions
to prevent exposure using guidelines established by agencies
and institutions such as the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and
Restoration Certification (IICRC).

Biological Hazards and Infectious Agents
• Heavy rains may result in flooding or standing water.
• Floodwater and standing waters often contains infectious
organisms including gastrointestinal bacteria such as E. coli,
Salmonella, and Shigella; hepatitis A virus; and agents of
typhoid, paratyphoid, and tetanus.
• Pools of standing or stagnant water can become breeding
grounds for mosquitoes, increasing the risk of encephalitis,
West Nile virus, Zika, or other mosquito-borne diseases.
• Wild or stray animals in populated areas increases the risk of
diseases caused by animal bites (e.g., rabies) as well as diseases
carried by fleas and ticks.

• Avoid bacterial and viral exposures, keep children and pets out
of standing water and contaminated materials.
• Hands should be cleaned regularly by either hand-washing with
soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• When hands are visibly soiled or dirty, it is best to wash your
hands with soap and clean running water for 20 seconds.
• Protect yourself and others from animal- and insect-related
hazards, avoid wild or stray animals/
• Use insect repellent that contains DEET or picaridin, and wear
long pants, socks, and long-sleeved shirts.
• Drain standing water in open containers to minimize mosquito
breeding places.

• Livestock might no longer be confined after a disaster, and the
pollution they generate may contaminate drinking water.
• Loose dogs or other roaming animals may be lost, frightened, or
hurt, and more likely to bite. Don’t feed, approach, or call a dog
you don’t know.
• Rats and mice can spread disease, contaminate food, and
destroy property.
• Remove food sources and other items that can provide shelter
for rodents.
• Keep food and water (including pet food) in containers made of
thick plastic, glass, or metal that have a tightfitting lid to keep
rodents out.

Radiation: Smoke Detectors
and Exit Lighting
• After natural disasters, homeowners, business owners, and
response personnel may encounter some items containing
radioactive materials, most notably smoke detectors and
commercial exit lights.
• Smoke detectors are ubiquitous in most buildings, including
residential, commercial, and institutional facilities, since there
are code requirements to have them in most jurisdictions.
• Most smoke detectors use a very small radioactive source,
generally Americium-241.The level of radiation emitted from a
smoke detector is insufficient to create a public health hazard,
and there are no federal regulatory requirements for disposal.

and Exit Lighting
• Dislocated or damaged smoke detectors may or may not
suitable for reinstallation.When in doubt about the suitability of
a device, purchase a new smoke detector unit.
• In general, if damaged or unusable, the recovered smoke
detector should be returned to the manufacturer if possible.
• Tritium exit lights may be found in commercial and institutional
facilities.
• These devices provide illumination from sealed glass tubes that
contain tritium gas, a radioactive isotope of hydrogen.
• Tritium gas emits beta (β) particles that interact within the tube
to produce the illumination.

and Exit Lighting
• As long as the glass tube within the sign remains unbroken,
there is little risk of radiation exposure.
• If internal glass tube is broken, there is some risk of exposure.
• If the word “Exit” is not fully or partially illuminated, this is an
indication that the tritium gas has escaped.
• As a gas, the tritium will dissipate over time.The rate of
dissipation depends on the ventilation rate in the building.

and Exit Lighting
• The greatest risk to people occurs when the tritium exit sign first
breaks or there is an indication there is escaping gas leakage.
• If a tritium exit sign is broken, leave the area immediately.
Consult an industrial hygienist, safety professional, or the state
radiation office listed at https://scp.nrc.gov/asdirectory.html.
• Disposal of tritium exit signs is highly regulated.They must not
be disposed in normal trash or abandoned.
• If you encounter a displaced tritium exit light, consult with an
industrial hygienist or contact the state radiation office for
details on mitigation efforts.

Flood Hazards from Natural Disasters
• Persons entering areas and buildings subject to flooding face a
variety of potential hazards, including, but not limited to,
electrical hazards, structural hazards, displaced wildlife,
exposure to chemicals and sewage in contaminated floodwater,
and mold growth from water-impacted building materials.
• First and foremost, life safety issues, such as avoiding electrical
shock and carbon monoxide poisoning, must be considered
before any clean-up or response is initiated.
• Clean-up of hazardous materials be performed or overseen by
professionals knowledgeable of both the hazards and the
methods to protect occupants, workers, and the environment.

Electrical Hazards from Natural Disasters
• Flooding caused by hurricanes and storms can create significant
electrical safety hazards. Avoid touching metal or wet objects.
• Live wires, circuits and/or transformers may be downed creating
a potential for electrical shock or death by electrocution.
• Floodwater contaminants can create serious fire hazards if
electrical wiring and equipment have been submerged in water.
• Even with professional cleaning and drying, sediments and
toxins are difficult to remove.
• Before energizing a circuit, have a qualified electrician or
electrical inspector check it thoroughly to assess the extent of
the damage, and then proceed with repair or replacement.

• Do not flip on a switch or plug in an appliance until an electrician
confirms it is safe.
• Do not touch a circuit breaker or replace a fuse with wet hands
or while standing on a wet surface. Use a dry plastic or rubber-
insulated tool to reset breakers, and use only one hand.
• Do not allow power cord connections to become wet.
• Do not remove or bypass the ground pin on a three-prong plug.

• Use portable ground-fault circuit-interrupters (GFCIs) to help
prevent electrical shock injuries.
• If electrical devices such as circuit breakers, receptacles, and
switches have been submerged, discard and replace them.
• When using a wet-dry vacuum cleaner or pressure washer,
follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid electrical shock.
• Corrosion and insulation damage can occur when water and silt
get inside electrical products.
• Water can also damage motors in electrical appliances.

• Therefore, homeowners, property managers, and
superintendents should be prepared to replace:
• Circuit breakers and fuses and all electrical wiring systems
• Light switches, thermostats, outlets, light fixtures, electric heaters, and
ceiling fans
• Furnace burner, blower motors, ignition transformers, elements, relays
• Hot water heaters, washing machines, furnaces, heat pumps,
refrigerators, and similar appliances.
• Electronic equipment, including computers and home entertainment
systems
• Air conditioners
• Non-submersible pumps
• Boilers

Hazards from Natural Gas
and Other Fuels
• Modern homes and buildings contain gas-fired appliances such
as water heaters, furnaces, and cooking appliances.
• Gas used as fuel is always flammable and may ignite in the
presence of an ignition source such as a lighter or other spark-
producing device and static electricity.
• Flammable fuel service to a home may include natural gas,
propane, or fuel oil.
• Service may become damaged as a result of structural damage,
such as from a tornado or other event, such as an earthquake.
• Such damage may cause a fuel leak that may be difficult to
detect without test equipment.

Hazards from Natural Gas
and Other Fuels
• Inadvertent ignition source or spark may ignite a fuel leak,
resulting in an explosion and further damage to the structure
and injury to the occupants.
• As a result, the home distribution and fuel delivery systems
should be inspected immediately following an event that
resulted in or could have resulted in physical damage to the
piping or fuel distribution structure inside or immediately
outside the home or building structure.
• Inspection should occur with the power disconnected and use a
direct-reading combustible gas or volatile organic compound
(VOC) detector. Inspection should start at the fuel delivery
source - such as a gas meter, or propane storage tank-shut off.

Hazardous Materials (Asbestos, Lead,
Petroleum Products, etc.)
• Hazardous materials and conditions may be present as a result
of damaged building materials containing lead, mercury or
asbestos, sewage-contaminated items, or hazardous materials
such as chemicals or cleaning products.
• Silicosis is a disabling, nonreversible and sometimes fatal lung
disease caused by overexposure to respirable crystalline silica.
• In many cases, these building materials are damaged and
dislodged during a natural disaster, resulting in the potential for
airborne exposure to fibers, vapors, gases, and dust particles.
• Homeowners, property managers, and superintendents should
be aware of these potential health hazards, and take extra
precautions when encountering these materials.

• Hazardous release of petroleum products, such as heating oil
and gasoline stored in the garage or in a vehicle, into a home or
other building can lead to airborne contamination as well as
contamination of the building materials, soil, and groundwater.
• Other hazardous materials of concern are polychlorinated
byphenyls (PCBs) in lighting ballasts, switches that contain
elemental mercury in thermostats, appliances, and other
devices.
• Some building materials contain asbestos-containing materials
that may be sprayed-on fire proofing or building materials.
Products include siding on the outside of homes, resilent floor
tiles, transite pipe, and roofing materials.

• Wet hay, grain, silage, compost and other organic/agricultural
materials often grow large amount of bacteria and mold during
the warm summer weather.
• Breathing these organisms and the organic dust produced may
cause lung disease.
• The biological processes involved in formation of bacteria and
mold can cause the hay to undergo spontaneous combustion.
• Monitor wet hay for odors, hot and damp areas and rising
vapors. If you detect these hazards, remove wet hay from the
building.
• As open burning is normally prohibited by state rule, it can be
used as a primary disposal technique under special situations.

• Items requiring special disposal considerations:
• Pool chemicals
• Tires
• Automobile batteries
• Bicycles
• PVC pipe
• Explosives (ammunition, re-loading equipment, black powder, military
ordinance, fireworks)
• Fuel containers, metal or plastic
• Pressurized gas cylinders/tanks (propane tanks, acetylene tanks,
refrigerant containers)
• Containers of petroleum based liquids, solvents, chemicals, etc.

• Items requiring special disposal considerations:
• Large household appliances (refrigerators, freezers, stoves, washers,
dryers, etc.)
• Off-road gas-powered equipment (lawn mowers, tractors, edgers, leaf
blowers and other lawn equipment, chainsaws, 4-wheelers, etc.
• Lawn and garden supplies (fertilizers, pesticides, etc.)
• Radioactive waste
• Industrial/commercial hazardous waste
• Medical waste
• Automobiles
• Electrical transformers
• Appliances cannot be disposed of until they have been certified as being
free of Freon or CFCs.

Hazardous Waste Operations and
Emergency Response (HAZWOPER)
• An unexpected release of hazardous substances, or a substantial
threat of a hazardous substance release, can pose a significant
health and safety risk to workers.
• Unexpected releases can be caused by operation failures and
unrelated outside events (e.g., natural disasters, terrorism).
Workers can encounter hazardous substances through waste
dumped in the environment—a serious safety and health issue
that continues to endanger life and environmental quality.
• Employers must adequately prepare emergency response and
cleanup workers to clearly understand their role(s) in managing
unexpected releases of hazardous substances, so that they can
act quickly and respond in a safe manner during an emergency.

Personal Hygiene and Sanitation
• Shower or rinse eyes when exposed to
airborne dusts, gases, vapors, fumes or
mists containing toxic chemicals.
• Always wash your hands with soap and
boiled or disinfected water before
preparing or eating food, after toilet use,
after participating in cleanup activities,
and after handling articles contaminated
by floodwater or sewage. Use warm
water when available.
• If water isn’t available, use alcohol-based
products made for washing hands.

Food and Drinking Water
• Food may not be safe to eat during and after an emergency.
Water may not be safe for cooking.
• Water may not be safe to drink, clean with, or bathe in after an
emergency, such as a hurricane or flood. During and after a
disaster, water can become contaminated with microorganisms
(for example, bacteria), sewage, agricultural or industrial waste,
chemicals, and other substances that can cause illness or death.
• Listen to and follow public announcements. Local authorities
will tell you if water is safe to drink or to use for cooking or
bathing. Follow local instructions to use bottled water or to boil
or disinfect water for cooking, cleaning, or bathing.

Food and Drinking Water
• Guidelines for food and drinking water are available
on these websites:
• U. S. Food and Drug Administration Food Safety for
Consumers Returning Home After a Hurricane and/or Flooding
https://www.fda.gov/food/resourcesforyou/consumers/ucm
076993.htm
• • U. S. Department of Agriculture Food Safety and
Inspection Services Keeping Food Safe During an Emergency
http://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/food-safety-
education/get-answers/food-safety-fact-sheets/emergency-
preparedness/keeping-food-safe-during-an-
emergency/CT_Index
• • U. S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration
FactSheet on Natural Disaster Recovery: Flood Cleanup
https://www.osha.gov/OshDoc/floodCleanup.html

Personal Protective Equipment
• If you choose to perform clean-up activities on your own, be
sure to wear NIOSH approved respirators and personal
protective clothing equipment to protect yourself during the
process.
• Guidelines for using both respirators and protective clothing and
equipment may be found at the following sites:
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Population-Specific
Recommendations for Protection From Exposure to Mold in Flooded
Buildings
https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/mold/report/pdf/2005_moldtable5.pdf
• Guidance on Personal Protective Equipment and Clothing for Flood
CleanupWorkers http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/emres/ppe-flood.html

• Caution should be taken when wearing a respirator to perform
any cleanup activity.
• While EPA and CDC both recommend the use of a National
Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) certified
N-95 respirator over a dust mask or surgical mask for mold
cleanup, it is important to understand the limitations and
additional risk of wearing a respirator.
• N95 respirators will not protect against chemicals or gases in the
air, such as carbon monoxide or airborne vapors of chemical
disinfectants.

• The respirator will not work if air leaks around the sides, so the
manufacturer provides fitting procedures that must be followed
and the correct size of respirator must be worn.
• Beards or other facial hair may prevent the respirator from
fitting properly. Hence, people wearing respirators should be
clean shaven.
• People with chronic heart or lung conditions (such as congestive
heart disease, asthma, and other conditions) should consult
their health care provider before using a respirator.
• OSHA requires that employers provide training, fitting of the
correct respirator size and testing of that fit, and a medical
evaluation prior to fitting and use of the respirator.

Wildfire Specific Hazards
• Wildfire’s impact to property, public health and the environment
can expand several hundred miles from the actual burn zone.
• Direct property loss due to extreme heat damage can directly
affect properties adjacent to the wilderness.
• However, communities several hundred miles downwind from
the fire may also be consequentially affected as combustion
particles are lofted high into the air by the fires extreme heat
then driven great distances by prevailing winds.
• Feather-light ash produced by the intense heat of combustion
and other smoke constituents including, solid particles, liquids,
aerosols and gases can exist in the atmosphere for variable
periods of time and continue to deposit long after the fire has
been extinguished.

• The broad distribution capabilities and impacts of combustion
by-products and emissions produced by wildfires can result in
widespread public exposure to potentially toxic materials.
• Wildfire particles can both migrate and infiltrate into the built
environment through open doors and windows, on shoes and
clothing, through the ventilation system and unperceived gaps
in the building envelope.
• Studies have shown, penetration rates can be highly influenced
by building characteristics, meteorology, and particle
size/composition.

• Settled combustion particles on building surfaces or personal
property can emit volatile materials which may be a source of
persistent odors and/or result in alteration in appearance or
value.
• During a wildfire event, keep all windows and doors in your
home closed. If heating or cooling of the air is needed, ensure
the ventilation system is turned on in recirculation mode (with
outside air dampers closed) in order to filter the air.
• However, the advice is different for commercial buildings.The
ventilation system operators should close or limit outdoor air
intake to balance the need for fresh air with hazards of smoke.
Portable air cleaners with High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA)
or electrostatic filters, may help reduce particulate levels.

Structural Instability
• Flood waters can rearrange and damage natural walkways, as
well as sidewalks, parking lots, roads , buildings and open fields.
• Never assume water damaged structures or ground are stable.
• Buildings that may have been submerged or have withstood
rushing flood waters may have suffered structural damage and
could be dangerous.
• Don’t work in or around any flood-damaged building until it has
been examined and certified as safe for work by a registered
professional engineer or architect.
• Assume all stairs, floors and roofs are unsafe until they are
inspected. Leave immediately if shifting or unusual noises signal
a possible collapse.

Inspection Prior to Re-occupancy
After a Wildfire
• Once the threat of fire has passed, local authorities will open
fire-impacted areas for property access.
• Inspect the property and exterior of structures to ensure that
there are no active fires, smoke, or hidden embers.
• Pay particular attention to attics, roofs, and outbuildings. If you
see fire or smoke, immediately contact local authorities.
• Also, inspect the property for heavily damaged trees.Trees or
damaged limbs may fall onto people or structures.
• If you have questions about the safety of a tree, contact a local
arborist or tree-removal firm.

After a Wildfire
• Inspect the exterior electrical power lines leading to the
structure.
• If power lines appear damaged, contact your local electrical
utility provider.
• Check for the smell of natural gas or propane.
• If you smell gas, leave the door open and exit the structure.
• Do not go inside a structure that has a gas odor.
• Turn off the gas supply if it is located outside, and contact your
utility provider.

After a Wildfire
• Prior to entering any structure, the exterior should be inspected
for structural fire damage.
• Fire damaged may compromise the structural integrity of roofs,
walls, and foundations.
• Visible movement or sagging of the structure suggests serious
damage.
• Evaluation by a qualified engineer or building official may be
warranted prior to entry.
• Do not enter the structure without respiratory protection if
strong or irritant smoke odor is noticeable.

After a Wildfire
• The minimum recommended respiratory protection is a NIOSH
approved N-95 filtering face piece (dust mask), or a half-face air
purifying respirator with combination particulate and organic
vapor cartridges, if volatile organic vapors are present or
suspected.
• The risk of adverse health effects from inhaling smoke
particulates or vapors depends on the concentration of airborne
chemicals and duration of exposure.
• Sensitive individuals will be at a higher risk of experiencing
adverse health effects.

After a Wildfire
Individuals that are considered part of sensitive populations are
generally those in the following groups:
• Infants and young children, due to under-developed respiratory systems
and immune systems
• Children (though while generally considered healthy, they have
increased time outdoors and increased activity levels, i.e., faster
breathing rate)
• Individuals with chronic or preexisting respiratory medical conditions
including, but it is not limited to asthma, chronic pulmonary obstructive
disease (COPD), emphysema or chronic bronchitis

After a Wildfire
Individuals that are considered part of sensitive populations are
generally those in the following groups:
• Individuals with other cardio-vascular or other vascular conditions
including, but not limited to high blood pressure, coronary artery
disease, congestive heart failure, or cerebrovascular conditions, such as
atherosclerosis
• Pregnant women
• The elderly and infirmed
• People with immunocompromised conditions
• Other individuals with respiratory infections at the time of exposure
• Smokers and former smokers

After a Wildfire
There are buildings and settings where sensitive populations are
present that should have special consideration if impacted by
wildfire smoke.
These include, but are not limited to:
• Daycare centers
• Hospitals
• Schools
• Nursing homes and assisted living units
• Senior centers
• Shelters

Re-occupancy After a Wildfire
• Be sure a clean water supply, electricity, and emergency medical
services are restored, reliable, and readily accessible.
• Fires may have deposited large amounts of ash that might
contain hazardous or corrosive materials.
• Don’t allow children in areas with visible ash accumulation.
• After the fire event, replace all air conditioning filters with
higher filtration rated filters for at least a few weeks to remove
entrained fire residue from the air and ductwork.
• Duct cleaning or replacement may be required if a visible layer
of soot remains. Consult a duct cleaning company for advice.
• If using gasoline or diesel powered pumps, generators, or
pressure washers, operate machines only in well-ventilated
areas to prevent exposure to carbon monoxide.

Cleaning After a Wildfire
• The presence of noticeable smoke odor
or accumulations of visible smoke
particulate indicates that interior and
exterior surfaces require cleaning.
• The odor will not dissipate until smoke
particulates have been removed.
• If your home was directly in the path of
the wildfire, professional smoke
restoration will likely be required.
• Following professional smoke
restoration, there should not be any
visible accumulations of smoke
particulate or noticeable smoke odors.

Cleaning After a Wildfire
• Because wind-driven and
tracked-in fire particulate
will continue for weeks to
months following a wildfire,
repeat cleaning may be
required for homes located
within the burned area.
• If you have concerns about
indoor air quality, consult a
qualified local Indoor
Environmental Professional
or Certified Industrial
Hygienist.

Restoration After a Wildfire
• Conduct an initial assessment to gauge the time commitment
and resources needed to sort and clean affected materials.This
initial assessment will help determine if professional services are
needed.
• Consider that corrosive residues from fires will continue to
damage susceptible materials, and items impacted by water will
need to be dried.
• Professional cleaning services or professional fire or smoke
remediation contractors can assist with heavy residues, non-
washable fabrics, upholstery, furniture, area rugs, wall-to-wall
carpeting, and other items that may be difficult to clean at
home due to their size or because they require specialized
cleaning equipment.

Falls and Confined Spaces
Falls
• Falls from ladders and roofs still account for the majority of falls.
Identifying fall hazards and deciding how best to protect
workers is the first step in reducing or eliminating fall hazards.
Confined Spaces
• "Confined Space" refers to a space which by design has limited
openings for entry and exit, unfavorable natural ventilation
which could contain or produce dangerous air contaminants,
and it is not intended for continuous employee occupancy.
• OSHA has vertical standards applicable to both general industry
and the construction industry.

Identifying and Handling Human Remains
• No direct risk of contagion or infectious disease from being near
human remains for people who are not directly involved in
recovery or other efforts that require handling dead bodies.
• Individuals in affected areas should instead exercise caution to
avoid well documented threats to health and safety, such as
injury hazards from sharp debris and from unidentified
structural damage to buildings, power lines, roads, and
industrial facilities.
• Loss of sanitary infrastructure may result in exposure to raw
sewage, loss of local drinking water treatment capacity, and
inability to maintain refrigeration for food and medical supplies.

• Human remains may contain blood-borne viruses such as
hepatitis viruses and HIV, and bacteria that cause diarrheal
diseases, such as shigella and salmonella.
• These viruses and bacteria do not pose a risk to someone
walking nearby, nor do they cause significant environmental
contamination.
• Bacteria and viruses from human remains in flood water are a
minor part of the overall contamination that can include
uncontrolled sewerage, a variety of soil and water organisms,
and household and industrial chemicals.
• There are no additional practices or precautions for flood water
related to human remains, beyond what is normally required for
safe food and drinking water, standard hygiene and first aid.

• People directly handle remains, such as recovery personnel, or
persons identifying remains or preparing the remains for burial or
cremation can be at risk of exposure to viruses or bacteria.
• Workers handling human remains should use the following
precautions:
• Protect your face from splashes of body fluids and fecal material
• Protect your hands from direct contact with body fluids, cuts, puncture
wounds, etc. that break the skin caused by sharp debris or bone fragments.
• Maintain hand hygiene to prevent transmission of diarrheal and other
diseases from fecal materials on your hands
• Immediate cleansing with soap and clean water, and a tetanus booster if
indicated--to any wounds sustained during work with human remains.
• Participate in available programs to provide psychological and emotional
support for workers handling human remains.

Stress, Long Hours, and Fatigue
• Continuous long hours of work, combined with emotional and
physical exhaustion, losses from damaged homes, and temporary
job layoffs, can create a highly stressful situation for cleanup
workers.
• Workers exposed to these stressful conditions have an increase
risk of injury and emotional crisis, and are more vulnerable to
stress-induce illness and disease.
• Emotional support from family members, neighbors and local
mental health professionals can help to prevent more serious
stress-related problems in the difficult months ahead.

Stress, Long Hours, and Fatigue
• People working in all phases of cleanup work can reduce their risks
of injury and illness in several ways:
• Set priorities for cleanup tasks and pace the work over several days (or
weeks).
• Avoid physical exhaustion.
• Resume a normal sleep schedule as quickly as possible.
• Get plenty of rest and take frequent rest breaks BEFORE exhaustion builds
up.
• Take advantage of disaster relief programs and services in the community.
• Be alert to emotional exhaustion or strain.
• When family members, friends and neighbors are unavailable for
emotional support, consult professionals at community health and mental
health centers.

Musculoskeletal Hazards
• Ergonomics includes the scientific study of people at work.The
goal of ergonomics is to reduce stress and eliminate injuries and
disorders associated with the overuse of soft tissues e.g., muscles
or tendons, awkward posture, and repeated tasks.
• Cleanup workers are at risk for developing serious musculoskeletal
injuries to the hands, back, knees and shoulders.
• Special attention is needed to avoid back injuries associated with
manual lifting and handling of debris and building materials.
• To help prevent injury, use teams of two or more to move bulky
objects, avoid lifting any material that weighs more than 50
pounds (per person), use proper posture whenever lifting, and use
proper automated-assist lifting devices.

Winter Weather Hazards
• Winter weather presents hazards including slippery roads and
walking surfaces, strong winds and environmental cold.
• Prevent illnesses, injuries, or fatalities, by controlling these safety
hazards in workplaces impacted by winter weather.
• Prevent slips, trips, and falls by clearing snow and ice from walking
surfaces, and spread deicer, as quickly as possible after a winter storm.
• When walking on snow or ice is unavoidable workers should be trained to:
• Wear footwear that has good traction and insulation (e.g. insulated and water
resistant boots or rubber over-shoes with good rubber treads)
• Take short steps and walk at a slower pace to react quickly to changes in
traction
• Use fall protection when removing snow from rooftops and elevated
heights

Trenching and Excavation Hazards
• The primary hazard of trenching and excavation is injury or death
from collapse.
• Soil analysis is important in order to determine appropriate
sloping, benching, and shoring.
• All trenches should be supported (e.g., with a trench box). If no
support is available, the trench must be sloped at no less than a
1:1 (45°) angle for cohesive soil and 1:1½ (34°) angle for granular
soils including gravel, sand, and loamy sand or submerged soil or
soil from which water is freely seeping

Trenching and Excavation Hazards
• Additional hazards include
working with heavy machinery;
manual handling of materials;
working in proximity to traffic;
electrical hazards from
overhead and underground
power-lines; and underground
utilities, such as natural gas.
• Washouts, trenches,
excavations, and gullies must
be supported or their stability
verified prior to worker entry.

General Response Resources
• General disaster relief assistance information is available on
these websites:
• Federal Emergency ManagementAgency: How to contact FEMA directly
for DisasterAid: https://faq.fema.gov/ci/documents/submit
• Disaster Assistance: General website for applying for disaster aid,
determining if you are eligible, and finding various assisting agencies.
http://www.disasterassistance.gov/
• Disaster Assistance List by FederalAgency:
http://www.disasterassistance.gov/get-assistance/assistance-by-federal-
agency
• American Red Cross: http://www.redcross.org

The OSHA Outreach Training Program is a training program for Disaster
Site Workers who provide skilled support services, (e.g. utility, demolition,
debris removal, or heavy equipment operation) or site clean-up services in
response to natural and man-made disasters. Specifically, it is recognized
that all workers at disaster sites need to be aware of the differences
between disaster sites and regular construction or demolition worksites.

Protect Mental Health
• Days and weeks after an emergency are rough, especially after
loss of life, feelings of helplessness, and complete destruction.
• Some sleeplessness, anxiety, anger, hyperactivity, mild
depression, or lethargy are normal and may go away with time.
• If you feel any of these symptoms acutely, seek counseling. Seek
medical care if injured, feel sick, or have acute stress and anxiety.
• Keep as many elements of the normal routine incorporated into
the disaster plans as possible, including activities to calm fears.
• Fewer resources to attend to day-to-day conflicts so resolve them.
• Turn to family, friends, co-workers and social or religious contacts
to setup support networks to deal with potential stressors.

Disaster Plan Guidelines
• Facility preparation for shutdown
• List of emergency authorities
• Designated leadership and spokesperson
• Emergency response roles and responsibilities
• Job action worksheet
• Communication plan and resources
• Emergency resource call list
• Staff call and communication protocol
• Contingencies for evacuation or shelter in-place
• Mutual aid and transfer agreement
• Surge capacity plan

• Security policy and protocol
• Pre-disaster checklist
• Occupational health and safety
• Emergency evacuation plan
• Site or building re-entry plan
• Post-disaster rescue, recovery and post-mortem plans
• Information, drills, training and tabletop exercise
• Periodically update disaster plan
• Policy, written programs and standard operating procedures
• Fire and explosion emergencies plan
• Severe weather emergencies policy and procedures

• Transfer agreements – long-term care and hospitals
• Discontinuation of water supply
• Food and potable drinking water plan
• Electrical power outage plan and procedures
• Environmental heat and humidity
• Radiological mishap and containment plan
• Chemical spill (soil and waterway) or air release plan
• Containment and control plan
• Public disaster plan based on hazards
• Telecommunication and relocation plan
• Remote assessment of property damage

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