Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred recovery
Following the severe weather event from ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, we are now in the recovery and clean up phase. We understand that many businesses, especially those in construction, are facing significant challenges.
It's crucial to be aware of potential health risks from contaminated environments and take necessary steps to ensure the safety and wellbeing of workers.
Floodwaters can harbour many infectious agents from sewage, animal waste and industrial contaminants. The most common health concerns after cyclonic events include gastrointestinal illnesses, skin infections, respiratory problems, and mosquito-borne diseases such as Ross River and Japanese encephalitis virus. More serious but less common threats include leptospirosis (from animal urine) and melioidosis (from soil bacteria), which can cause severe illness requiring hospitalisation.
Essential preventative measures for workers include:
- wearing appropriate PPE such as water-resistant gloves, safety eyewear for splash protection, enclosed boots, and protective long-sleeved clothing
- maintaining rigorous hygiene especially before eating and after contact with contaminated materials
- cleaning and covering wounds and any skin lacerations with water-resistant dressings
- using insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin on exposed skin.
It's important to ensure that your workplace remains safe and healthy for everyone during the recovery phase. Providing clean facilities, such as handwashing stations, clean drinking water, and proper first aid supplies, is essential. Encourage workers to take breaks in uncontaminated areas and to thoroughly shower after their shifts.
Workers with underlying conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, or compromised immunity should take extra precautions or avoid direct contact with contaminated environments.
Please remember that work-related infections are notifiable incidents. If any symptoms develop after flood exposure or if a tetanus vaccination is needed following an injury, seek medical attention promptly.
Learn more about infection risks from flood recovery and response work.