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Flood risk and response in the workplace
The B.C. Ministry of Environment is warning that unusually high snow pack levels pose a risk of flooding during spring run-off in May and June. Heavy rains or warm weather could cause the snow pack to melt more quickly, increasing the potential risk and severity of flooding in B.C. communities that lie within the floodplain, particularly those along the Fraser River.
WorkSafeBC reminds employers that they are required to maintain a safe and healthy workplace. Should the area around your workplace or home flood, there are risks associated with gas lines, power lines and electricity, unstable soil, sewage, sanitation, and water-borne bacteria and chemicals.
Consider how you can prepare for a potential flood and ensure that everyone at your workplace stays safe and injury-free.
Sandbagging
Proper techniques for sandbagging (bending, shoveling, and lifting) can help to prevent injury. Information on sandbagging (PDF 134kb) is available from WorkSafeBC and from the Provincial Emergency Program.
Water contamination
Floodwaters can carry garbage, sewage, chemicals, pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, and other pollutants. Water-borne contaminants can also penetrate soil and vegetation. Read about the risks and what you can do to protect yourself from contaminants (PDF 92kb) in the event of flooding.
Cold water immersion
Being immersed in cold floodwaters can have traumatic effects on your body. Shock, inability to swim, hypothermia, and post-rescue collapse are the risks associated with cold water immersion. (PDF 140kb)
Electrical safety
Electricity and water is a dangerous combination. For information on how to protect workers from electrical risks, see B.C. Hydro’s information on Flood and Electrical Safety or visit the B.C. Safety Authority web site.
Gas safety
Natural and propane gas pipes can pose a danger with rising floodwaters. Terasen Gas and the B.C. Safety Authority offer information on how to reduce the risks associated with gas lines during floods.
Driving safety
Operating a car or truck for business or personal use during a flood could pose a danger. For driver safety tips during a flood, see the article, ICBC urges motorists to prepare for flooding.
Government resources
To learn more about flood risks and how you can protect health and safety at work and at home, see the Provincial Emergency Program web site.
- News release
- FAQs: WorkSafeBC flood response
- Bio-hazards safety sheet (PDF 92kb)
- Cold water safety sheet (PDF 140kb)
- Sandbagging safety sheet (PDF 134kb)
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