Hand Hygiene
in Hurricane-Affected Areas
Floodwater can be contaminated with microorganisms, sewage, industrial waste, chemicals, and other substances that can cause illness or death.
Wear Protective Gloves
- Wear protective gloves when: working in contaminated floodwaters, handling contaminated objects, or handling human or animal remains.
- Gloves should be heavy, cut-resistant, made of waterproof material (nitrile or similar washable material).
Wash Hands with Soap and Clean (or disinfected) Water
- After cleanup or decontamination work; before preparing or eating food; and after toilet use.
Wound Care
- Wash wounds with soap and clean (or disinfected) water or a hand sanitizer immediately.
- Seek immediate medical attention if wound becomes red, swollen, or oozes pus.
Disinfecting Water for Hand Washing
- Contaminated water can be bleach-disinfected by mixing 1/4 teaspoon of household bleach per 1 gallon of water.
- Let bleach-water mixture stand for 30 minutes.
- Label containers (e.g., “bleach disinfected water – DO NOT DRINK”).
Disinfecting Water for Tool/Surface Decontamination
- It is preferrable to use soap and clean water when available.
- If only contaminated water is available, prepare solution of 1/4 cup household bleach per 1 gallon of water.
- Prepare fresh solutions daily, preferably just before use.
- Immerse objects in the solution for 10 minutes.
- Label containers (e.g., “bleach disinfected water – DO NOT DRINK”).
- Warning: Bleach can damage firefighters’ turnout gear; consult manufacturer.
For more complete information:
U.S. Department of Labor
www.osha.gov (800) 321-OSHA
OSHA 3267-09N-05
Occupational Safety and Health Administration |
www.osha.gov (800) 321-OSHA
OSHA 3267-09N-05