Get your workplace ready for summer storms and flooding

Queensland businesses have been issued a reminder to be ready to deal with more of Queensland’s wild summer weather – including the forecast La Nina heavy rainfall.

Industrial Relations Minister Grace Grace encouraged business owners to prepare their premises for severe weather and potential electrical safety issues.

“The best way to avoid costly clean-up bills is to make sure your workplace and backyards are clean and tidy in the first place,” she said.

“Storm forecasts and warnings usually provide plenty of opportunity to prepare for the impacts of severe weather.

“And once the severe weather has passed, it’s important to assess potential risks like damaged electrical switchboards or asbestos before the clean-up starts.”

Worksafe Queensland tips   

Before weather events:

• Make sure drains and gutters are clear of debris
• Remove rubbish, tools and material which could become projectiles in strong winds  

After weather events:

Make electrical safety a priority if your worksite has flooded

• Don’t assume the power is off
• Stay well away from water damaged switchboards – and warn others to do the same.
• If generators are needed to power essential equipment, run them outside because fumes can build up quickly in an enclosed area.
• Don’t connect generators to your property unless you have had a changeover switch fitted with the right generator socket.
• Have a licensed electrician check water-logged or submerged electrical appliances and equipment before using them.  
• Watch out for asbestos materials in damaged buildings. If the building was built or renovated before 1990, it’s very likely there’ll be some asbestos.
• Don’t break anything up, as this can release dangerous fibres into the air.
• Seek advice from a licensed asbestos professional.
• Don’t use high pressure water blasters on asbestos materials such as a corrugated asbestos cement (super six roof). It’s illegal and can lead to a hefty fine and a repatriation bill.

More information about storm and flood recovery is at worksafe.qld.gov.au.

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