SafetyWorks! Program Assists in Flood Recovery Effort

May 14, 2008

Maine Department of Labor SafetyWorks! staff continue to be involved in ensuring the safety of workers involved with recovery activities in communities in Northern Maine affected by floods earlier this month.

Last week, staff donated several cases of N-95 respirators, paper suits, gloves and boots for use by the National Guard in Aroostook County. The goods were delivered to Camp Keyes and flown by helicopter to the region.

SafetyWorks! staff were also in the St. John Valley last week distributing information to recovery workers and homeowners on mold and general debris removal safety. While there, SafetyWorks! safety consultants conducted a brief work zone safety class for public works employees who were clearing and repairing roadways damaged by the flooding.

?Flooding creates unique hazards that remain present well after waters recede,? said Maine Labor Commissioner Laura Fortman. ?Being aware of the dangers and simple safety precautions can help people stay safe during the recovery process.?

Information on cleanup hazards is available online at: http://www.osha.gov/OshDoc/dataHurricaneFacts/Bulletin1.pdf . Information on mold hazards can be found at: http://www.osha.gov/OshDoc/dataHurricaneFacts/mold_fact.pdf . Other state and community resources for flood victims can be found by calling 211 or going online to http://www.211maine.org.

The SafetyWorks! program provides free safety and health consultations, trainings, and education resources for Maine employers and workers. For more information about upcoming trainings, visit the SafetyWorks! website at www.safetyworksmaine.com or call 1-877-SAFE-345 or TTY: 1-800-794-1110.