|
Infrastructure Repair and Restoration
Restoring Water and Sewer Services |
 |
Activity Description
- This activity sheet is for response and recovery workers and supervisors assessing and restoring water and sewer services. For some operations or situations (e.g., permit-required confined space entry, trenching, heavy equipment use) other activity sheets also apply; see related activity sheets below.
- As a result of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita (2005), many communities lost their water and sewer services because collection and distribution systems were overwhelmed by the large volumes of water resulting from the storms; the impacts of sand, sludge, and other contaminants; and the forced shutdown of the systems due to the loss of power and evacuation of operations workers.
- Restoration of these systems will require response and recovery workers to assess and repair the damage to the systems. This work will involve entry into many confined spaces, the use of heavy equipment to dig trenches, and the use of chemicals to make the water potable and to allow sewage treatment plants to resume normal operations.
- Individuals conducting assessment and repair activities should already be familiar with safe work practices and personal protective equipment applicable to restoring water and sewage treatment services. This activity sheet is intended to advise response and recovery workers and supervisors of some hazards and potential controls to consider when dealing with hurricane-damaged systems.
- Response and recovery workers conducting this operation may be employed by Federal, State, local, and private employers. Review How to Use This Matrix in the introduction for a discussion of how this information may apply to different employees.
About the Activity Sheet
This activity sheet does not provide an in-depth analysis of OSHA standards and regulations and cannot address all hazards. It does not increase or diminish any OSHA requirement or employer obligation under those requirements. It is intended as a guide and quick reference for employers and response and recovery workers. The Matrix captures major activities involved in hurricane response and recovery, highlights many of the hazards associated with them, and recommends beneficial work practices, personal protective equipment (PPE), and other exposure control methods. Employers must evaluate the specific hazards associated with the job/operation at the site where the work is being performed.
Employers are responsible for providing a safe and healthful workplace for their employees. OSHA's role is to assure the safety and health of America's workers by setting and enforcing standards; providing training, outreach, and education; establishing partnerships; and encouraging continual improvement in workplace safety and health.
The Hazard Exposure and Risk Assessment Matrix for Hurricane Response and Recovery Work provides a general overview of particular topics related to current OSHA standards. It does not alter or determine compliance responsibilities in OSHA standards or the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, or the equivalent State Plan standards and requirements. Because interpretations and enforcement policy may change over time, you should consult current OSHA/State Plan administrative interpretations and decisions by the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission and the courts for additional guidance on OSHA compliance requirements. Employers should modify their procedures as appropriate when additional, relevant information becomes available.
Activity-Specific Sampling and Monitoring Information
- Work zone safety concerns were found at roughly half these work sites where hazards were noted. Typically work areas were not adequately marked or separated with signs, cones or barricades.
- Trenching/excavation hazards were identified in just less then half the work sites observed. Hazards included exposure to cave-ins, and entry/egress issues.
- PPE issues were identified at one third of the work sites observed. PPE, including face, head, and hearing protection, was either not being used, or the PPE selected did not adequately protect individuals.
- For safety and health monitoring data and sample results, see the Summary of Activity Sampling Data and Safety and Health Monitoring Information.
General Recommendations
Key Engineering Controls and Work Practices.
See general recommendations document.
Personal Protective Equipment.
The general PPE is recommended for all response/recovery tasks/operations; only the additional PPE that may be needed for a specific hazard is noted below.
General PPE includes:
- Hard hat for overhead impact or electrical hazards
- Eye protection with side shields
- Gloves chosen for job hazards expected (e.g., heavy-duty leather work gloves for handling debris with sharp edges and/or chemical protective gloves appropriate for chemicals potentially contacted)
- ANSI-approved protective footwear
- Respiratory protection as necessary—N, R, or P95, filtering facepieces may be used for nuisance dusts (e.g., dried mud, dirt and silt) and mold (except mold remediation). Filters with a charcoal layer may be used for odors.
Recommendations Specific to Hazards Associated with This Activity
GENERAL HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATION
Key Engineering Controls and Work Practices
Additional Personal Protective Equipment
WORK ZONE SAFETY
Key Engineering Controls and Work Practices
Additional Personal Protective Equipment
- ANSI/ISEA 107-2004 compliant high visibility safety apparel and headwear
TRENCHES AND EXCAVATIONS
Key Engineering Controls and Work Practices
CONFINED SPACES
Key Engineering Controls and Work Practices
- Confined spaces have limited means of entry or exit, are large enough to bodily enter, and may contain physical (e.g., mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic energy; engulfment hazards; inwardly converging surfaces) or atmospheric hazards (e.g., atmospheres that are oxygen-deficient or oxygen-enriched, contain or may contain flammable gas, vapor or mist, airborne combustible dust, toxic substances, or any other atmosphere that is immediately dangerous to life or health). Examples include storage tanks, process vessels, bins, boilers, vaults, ventilation or exhaust ducts, sewers, tunnels, pipelines, and pits more than 4 feet in depth
- Hurricane-related events might introduce hazards or potential hazards into confined spaces. For example, a space might have a potential to contain a hazardous atmosphere due to the presence of decomposing organic matter, to the use of hazardous chemicals in the space, or to the performance of operations in the space, such as welding, cutting, or burning, that may create a hazardous atmosphere. Additional precautions must be taken to make the space safe for entry
- Evaluate the need for entry (i.e., placing any body part into the space)
- If entry is required, see Entry into Confined Spaces activity sheet
IMPROPER LADDER USE
Key Engineering Controls and Work Practices
- Inspect ladders for cracked, broken, or defective parts before use
- Do not exceed the load rating of ladders—remember that load ratings include people, tools, and equipment
- Set up ladders on stable surfaces
- Set extension or straight ladders at a 75 degree angle from the ground (1/4 foot back for every foot of rise) and provide 3 feet above an upper landing surface to ease climbing onto/descending from height
- Use non-conductive ladders (e.g., fiberglass) and exercise extreme caution when working near power lines
- Secure ladders that can be displaced by work activities; consider barricades at the base to keep traffic away
SILICA, NUISANCE DUST, DRIED MUD, OR SILT
Key Engineering Controls and Work Practices
- Stay upwind of or away from dust-generating activities, and in particular those involving crystalline silica-containing materials like concrete, brick, tile, drywall, mortar, sand, or stone. When inhaled, the fine crystalline silica particles contained in the dust can become lodged deep in the lung, which can lead to silicosis and other respiratory illnesses
- Use water spray or mist to suppress dust generation, especially during operations that may create a lot of dust, such as cutting or sawing silica-containing materials, jack hammering, impact drilling, using heavy equipment, and demolishing structures
- Avoid using compressed air for cleaning surfaces
- Sample employee exposures to silica during dust-generating activities
Additional Personal Protective Equipment
- At a minimum, use respirators with N, R, or P95 filters for work with crystalline silica-containing materials (e.g., concrete, brick, tile, mortar). The use of N, R, or P100 filters may provide additional protection. Higher levels of respiratory protection may be needed for some operations (e.g., cutting concrete, sandblasting, mixing concrete)
- N, R, or P95 respirators may be used for nuisance dusts (e.g., dried mud, dirt, or silt) and mold (except mold remediation). Filters with a charcoal layer may be used for odors
CONTACT WITH DOWNED LINES AND LIVE ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT AND OTHER UTILITIES (E.G., GAS, WATER)
Key Engineering Controls and Work Practices
- Assume that electrical lines are energized until proven otherwise. Lines and other conductors may become reenergized without warning as utilities are evaluated and restored after a disaster
- Inspect the work area for downed conductors and do not go near, drive over, or otherwise come in contact with them
- Downed electrical conductors can energize other objects, including fences, water pipes, bushes, trees, and telephone/CATV/fiber optic cables
- Unless deenergized and visibly grounded, maintain proper distance from overhead electrical power lines (at least 10 feet) and/or provide insulating barriers
- Do not approach any gas leaks; if a gas leak is detected, secure spark-producing devices (e.g., engines, tools, electronic, and communications equipment) and evacuate the area until the leak is secured
- Contact utility company to assist in locating, marking, and shutting off/purging utility lines that may pose a hazard or may be impacted; ensure that lines have been purged as needed before beginning work
UNSECURED HAZARDS IN THE WORK AREA
Key Engineering Controls and Work Practices
- Remove or secure objects (glass, structural members) that may fall while employees work under them
- Use debris netting, sidewalk sheds, canopies, or catch platforms to reduce hazards from falling objects
- Verify the location of all other utility lines; ensure lines have been shut-off, capped, or otherwise controlled outside the building before beginning work. Notify utility companies before controlling their utility lines
- Assess the presence, contents, and condition of tanks and equipment that might contain hazardous chemicals, gases, or flammable materials. If the condition of tanks or equipment is suspect, avoid disturbing them until after the assessment is done and a plan of action determined
- Purge lines, tanks, and equipment containing hazardous chemicals, gases, or flammable materials. Use air monitoring equipment such as a combustible gas indicator, toxic gas monitor, or oxygen monitor to determine if any hazardous conditions remain. When necessary, provide additional controls to protect response and recovery workers (e.g., forced ventilation, respiratory protection)
- Provide and use safe walkways to reach any point without having to walk on exposed beams; walkways should be at least 18 inches wide and formed by using 2-inch thick wood, with stringers installed as needed for support
ASBESTOS
Key Engineering Controls and Work Practices
Additional Personal Protective Equipment
- Based on the initial exposure assessment, select the appropriate respirator and protective clothing for visual inspection, sampling, and subsequent abatement work
CHEMICAL AND MATERIAL STORAGE AND USE
Key Engineering Controls and Work Practices
- Segregate and store incompatible chemicals separately. For example, store solvents and oxidizers (e.g., peroxides) separately, and acids and caustics separately
- Secure compressed gas cylinders and ensure that they are stored properly when not in use (regulators off and valve caps on when not in use; separate oxygen and fuel gas by 20 feet or using a non-combustible barrier (5 ft high, fire-resistant rating of at least ½ hour))
- Store chemicals in containers approved and designed for chemical storage and mark all storage locations
- Store and handle hazardous materials in areas with natural or forced ventilation; do not store or handle in low-lying areas
- Isolate, secure and identify storage areas
- Prohibit smoking near storage areas
- Keep ignition sources at least 25 feet away from storage areas
- Ensure that fire extinguishers and extinguishing agents are available in the immediate area
- Bond and ground containers before dispensing flammable liquids. Reference 29 CFR 1926.152(e)(2)
Additional Personal Protective Equipment
- Gloves made of material that will protect user from chemicals handled
- Face shield or goggles with indirect venting. If a face shield is selected, eye protection must be worn under the face shield
- Coveralls or apron resistant to chemicals being handled
- Disposable boot covers resistant to the chemicals being handled
- A respirator and cartridges specific for chemical, as necessary
EXPOSURE TO CONTAMINATED WATER AND/OR FLOODWATERS
Key Engineering Controls and Work Practices
- Reduce the exposure to splash or aerosolized liquid hazards by limiting the number of people in the area and having those in the area stay upwind of water discharge areas
- Ensure that good hygiene, especially hand washing, is practiced before eating, drinking, and smoking. If clean water is not available, use an alternative such as hand sanitizer or sanitizing wipes
- Ensure that cuts and bruises are protected from contact with contaminated water
- Clean areas of the body that come in contact with contaminated water with soap and water, hand sanitizer, or sanitizing wipes
Additional Personal Protective Equipment
- Goggles if routinely working near splashing floodwater
- N, R, or P95 respirators may be necessary for exposure to contaminated water that may become aerosolized
- Watertight boots with steel toe and insoles
- Waterproof gloves for contact with contaminated water
WELDING, CUTTING, AND BURNING
Key Engineering Controls and Work Practices
- Remove flammable and combustible materials from the area
- Do not perform “hot work” such as welding, cutting, or burning in areas where flammable, combustible, corrosive, or toxic substances are being used, stored, or may otherwise be present
- Maintain a fire watch during all hot work until material has cooled
- Ensure fire extinguishers and extinguishing agents are available in the immediate area
- Provide natural, exhaust, or forced ventilation to control exposure to the metal fumes and other contaminants being generated (e.g., generator exhaust)
- Ensure that pipes and other vessels are purged of hazardous materials
- Identify building materials that will be welded, cut, or burned and that may contain lead, such as painted surfaces and pipes. Test materials and provide exposure controls identified in 29 CFR 1926.62 as necessary; see the lead hazard in the general recommendations document
Additional Personal Protective Equipment
- Gloves and protective clothing for the activity being performed
- At a minimum, filtered lenses and face-protection as appropriate for the activity being performed
- Respiratory protection based on anticipated exposure to metal fumes, including lead
SLIPS, TRIPS, AND FALLS ON WORKING SURFACES
Key Engineering Controls and Work Practices
- Cover or guard holes and openings (manhole covers, sewer grates, trenches) as soon as they are created.
- Take extra care when stepping into areas that are unstable/uneven or where the surface cannot be seen
- See general recommendations document
POWER AND HAND TOOL USE
Key Engineering Controls and Work Practices
- Use ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) or double insulated power tools, or implement an assured equipment grounding program
- Inspect power tool condition (including any cords) and verify operation of safety features before use
- Do not use equipment that is defective, such as equipment with inoperable safety switches, missing guards, frayed/cut cords etc.
- Ground power tools properly
- Avoid standing in wet areas when using portable power tools
Additional Personal Protective Equipment
- Hearing protection—see Noise hazard
- Hand protection for cut- and abrasion-control and vibration dampening
- Eye protection appropriate to the impact hazard
WORK ON, OVER, OR NEAR WATER
Key Engineering Controls and Work Practices
Additional Personal Protective Equipment
- All personnel should wear Coast Guard-approved Type I or II personal floatation devices
- Watertight boots with steel toe and insole as needed
GENERATOR USE
Key Engineering Controls and Work Practices
- Never attach a generator directly to the electrical system of a structure unless a qualified electrician has installed a transfer switch for the generator. If the structure's electrical system is not isolated, it may energize the utility's wiring system for great distances and create a risk of electrocution for utility workers and others in the area
- Always plug electrical equipment directly into the generator using the manufacturer's supplied cords or grounded (3-pronged) extension cords that are rated for the total anticipated load
- Do not overload a generator; it can overheat and create a fire hazard
- Ground and bond generators according to the manufacturer's recommendations; ensure that any manufacturer-required connections are secure before using the generator
- Keep the generator dry; protect with a canopy if needed; do not use it in wet or rainy conditions
- Carbon monoxide (CO) is a poisonous, colorless, and odorless gas that is produced by the incomplete burning of the generator's fuel. CO is harmful when breathed because it displaces oxygen in the blood and deprives the heart, brain, and other vital organs of oxygen
- Never use a generator indoors or in enclosed spaces such as garages and basements; opening windows and doors may not prevent CO from building up in those spaces. Do not use a generator outdoors near doors, windows, and vents that could allow CO to enter
- Ensure that a generator has 3 to 4 feet of clear space on all sides and above it to ensure adequate ventilation and cooling
- Before refueling, shut down the generator and allow it to cool
Additional Personal Protective Equipment
DISCOVERY OF HUMAN OR ANIMAL REMAINS
Key Engineering Controls and Work Practices
- If found, contact public health/mortuary personnel for removal
DISCOVERY OF UNKNOWN CHEMICALS
Key Engineering Controls and Work Practices
- If hazardous chemical containers are found or leaking materials are detected:
- Do not use spark-producing devices (e.g., engines, tools, electronic, and communications equipment) in the immediate area
- Take self-protective measures (i.e., move to a safe distance upwind) and contact hazardous material response personnel for evaluation/removal before continuing work in the area
Additional Personal Protective Equipment
- Evaluate the need to revise protective clothing, respirator, and glove selection
NOISE
Key Engineering Controls and Work Practices
- Place generators, compressors, and other noisy equipment at a distance or behind a barrier when possible
Additional Personal Protective Equipment
- Hearing protection when working around potential noise sources and when noise levels exceed 90 dBA. A useful “rule of thumb”—if you cannot hold a conversation in a normal speaking voice with a person who is standing at arms length (approximately 3 feet), the noise level may exceed 90 dBA
OTHER POTENTIAL HAZARDS
Select any of the following potential hazards that can be associated with this activity in order to access relevant recommendations in the general recommendations document:
Additional Medical Needs
Additional Training Needs
Related Activity Sheets
Other Resources and References
- 29 CFR 1926.550, Cranes and Derricks. OSHA.
- 29 CFR 1910.1001, Asbestos in General Industry. OSHA.
- 29 CFR 1926.1101, Asbestos in Construction. OSHA.
- Crane Safety. OSHA Quick Card, (2005), 23 KB, PDF, 1 page.
- Atmospheric Testing in Confined Spaces. OSHA Quick Card, (2005), 21 KB, PDF, 2 pages.
- NIOSH Interim Guidance: Working Safely in Confined Spaces. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, (2005).
- Confined Spaces. OSHA Safety and Health Topics Page.
- Respiratory Protection. OSHA Safety and Health Topics Page.
- NIOSH Respirator Selection Logic. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, (2004).
- Using Portable Generators Safely. OSHA Fact Sheet, (2005), 22 KB, PDF, 2 pages.
- Portable Generator Safety. OSHA Quick Card, (2005), 19 KB, PDF, 1 page.
- Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration, (2001).
- General Decontamination. OSHA Fact Sheet, (2005), 22 KB, PDF, 2 pages.
|
| |
Accessibility Assistance: Contact the OSHA Directorate of Science, Technology and Medicine at 202-693-2300 for assistance accessing OSHA PDF materials. Please see the Website Assistance for Browsers, Plugins & Players if you experience difficulty viewing any of the files.
|
|
Back to Top
www.osha.gov
