Protecting your health during storm and flood clean-up

Queensland is once again heading into a summer with wetter-than-usual weather predictions and an elevated risk of cyclones is becoming the new normal. While these storms will eventually pass, the real challenge often begins afterward, when it’s time to clean up.

Severe weather can turn many different types of workplaces into contaminated environments which can pose significant health risks for workers and volunteers.

Exposure to contaminated environments increases the risks of contracting many different types of diseases including:

Melioidosis

Melioidosis is a particular concern for workers who come into contact with mud and surface water, especially in tropical areas of Queensland. The infection occurs when contaminated mud or water enters the body through non-intact skin. Although melioidosis is rare in healthy adults, it can lead to severe illness in those with underlying health conditions such as diabetes, chronic kidney and lung diseases, and weakened immune systems.

Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is another risk, primarily for workers exposed to wet environments contaminated by animal urine, including rat urine. The infection happens when contaminated water comes into contact with non-intact skin, or through the eyes, mouth, or nose. It can also be contracted through immersion in contaminated water and typically presents as a severe flu-like illness that may require hospitalisation.

How to stay safe

By taking a few simple precautions you can significantly reduce your risk of infection.

Here's how to stay safe while cleaning up in flooded or storm-affected areas.

• cover cuts, abrasions and sores with a water-resistant dressing to prevent contamination from soil or water
• wear water-resistant or enclosed footwear when working in wet or muddy areas to protect your feet from harmful bacteria
• wear protective gloves when handling soil, mud or surface water
• wash hands and feet thoroughly after contact with contaminated soil or muddy water
• clean wounds and abrasions promptly to prevent infection.

More information

Read more about storm and flood recovery safety and how to protect against infectious diseases.

Stay safe and take the necessary precautions to protect your health during this summer season and beyond.