Storms, floods and bushfires

Persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBUs) must ensure all workplaces have emergency procedures in place, so everyone knows what to do in the event of an emergency. The emergency plan should include remote and isolated workers and those who may be working away from the impacted workplace. Ensure all remote or isolated workers have access to communication devices, such as radios and mobile phones, so workers can receive instructions or call for help if needed.

See the emergencies page for information on preparing emergency plans for your workplace.

Storms

PCBUs and workers should remain aware of the weather, including storms and any severe weather warnings.

Storms can pose hazardous, including rain, hail, wind and lightening.

Some storms may also trigger medical issues, such as asthma and pollen allergies (hay-fever). Some storms can pick up pollen and cause the pollen to break up into much smaller particles than can go deeper into the lungs and cause an asthma attack, even in people who have not had asthma before.

When a thunderstorm asthma warning is issued, people with hay-fever or asthma should follow their treatment plan or see their GP. PCBUs should advise workers, if there is an asthma warning so workers can plan accordingly. Asthma sufferers should take any prescribed preventer every day and always have an asthma reliever with them. See the Smoke, pollen and dust in the workplace page for further information.

PCBUs must ensure workers have access to first aid or emergency services. If anyone experiences breathing difficulties, they should seek immediate medical attention or call an ambulance.

PCBUs in control of workplaces that use of any plant or equipment should be aware of the impact of severe weather. This may include any wind speed limits, if there are any changes to ground conditions and if there is a risk of lightning. Work involving plant may need to be paused until conditions improve.

Floods

In the ACT, flash flooding may occur during intense local rainfall. This may result in Riverine Flooding, where water breaks the banks of local creeks, rivers and lakes. This water can be fast moving, unpredictable and pose health and safety risks.

PCBUs should remain aware of any flood warnings in their work locations, including isolated or remote workers.

The PCBU should ensure workers do not drive over any flooded roads, and that they stay aware of emergency directions in the event of a flood in the workplace. Do not allow workers to enter flood water, even if it is shallow, as it can harbour harmful bacteria or debris.

Additionally, flooding may cause ground conditions to change, carry out a risk assessment before starting work if the ground has been affected by a recent flood.

Ensure the workplace is well maintained, keeping gutters and water runways clear.

Bushfires

Bushfires can pose a significant risk to health and safety. Bushfires can be unpredictable and very dangerous. PCBUs and workers should ensure they remain aware of any bushfire risks and follow all directions from emergency services.

PCBUs must ensure work practices do not increase the risk of creating or worsening bushfires. For example, ensure any flammable materials are stored correctly, that tasks that may lead to fire are conducted safely and ensure workers have a safe place to dispose of cigarette butts.

PCBUs should ensure bushfire awareness is increased during warm weather and times of higher fire danger. For example, consider conducting a toolbox talk prior to the bushfire season.

Smoke levels during a bushfire may impact the air quality. PCBUs should check the air quality levels regularly and plan work accordingly. See the Smoke, pollen and dust in the workplace page for further information.

After a storm or emergency

PCBUs must ensure the workplace is safe at all times. A risk assessment will likely be required if a major weather or emergency event has affected the workplace.

After an emergency, storm, bushfire or flood the workplace should be checked to ensure it is still safe to work in, prior to any work starting. For example, bushfire damage to buildings or surrounds may lead to exposure of dangerous substances such as asbestos or electrical wires.

If asbestos damage is suspected, ensure a competent person assesses the workplace. A licensed asbestos assessor can advise of the condition of any asbestos or asbestos containing material and advise the most appropriate maintenance or removal options. The removal of asbestos and asbestos containing material from a premises (both workplaces and non-workplaces) is not permitted unless it is undertaken by an appropriately licensed asbestos removalist.

Plant must not be used if the conditions are not safe. A risk assessment should be undertaken after a weather event to check plant for any damage. If lightning has struck or is suspected to have struck plant or a structure, ensure it is safe to approach and use. An inspection should be carried out for any plant that may have been affected by lightning to ensure it is working properly before it is used.