August 24, 2005—In light of recent and possible future hurricanes and stifling summer temperatures, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) posted resources and information on its Web site for those working in the affected areas.
- The Storm and Flood Clean-up topic page reminds workers of the potential dangers associated with hurricane clean-up, including electrical hazards, tree removal, confined spaces and falls, hazardous materials, and carbon monoxide poisoning.
- The Heat Stress topic page reminds workers of the potential dangers associated with working in hot environments, including reduced productivity, heat stroke, accidents caused by sweaty palms and fogged-up safety glasses, and severe burns caused by contact with hot surfaces and steam.
Hurricane Emily resulted in at least 70 deaths in the US and the Caribbean, and the scorching summer temperatures have led to at least 40 deaths across the US.
