Protecting workers engaged in Sandy recovery operations: New fact sheet on mold hazards and safeguards for workers

As of Dec. 12, OSHA's education and training efforts have reached over 60,000 workers engaged in recovery efforts in communities affected by superstorm Sandy. More than 7,000 workers have been removed from safety and health hazards because of these efforts.

One potential health hazard to workers in the recovery is mold. Remediation of mold-contaminated building materials and surfaces may cause workers to become sickened or injured if employers don’t know the hazards of mold; develop an effective mediation plan; use effective controls, work practices and personal protective equipment; or train employees to recognize and protect themselves against mold. To help provide information on mold hazards, OSHA has released a new Mold Hazards during Hurricane Sandy Cleanup Fact Sheet (PDF*). Additional guidance, fact sheets (including a Personal Protective Equipment Matrix (PDF*) that shows what equipment is necessary to keep workers safe) and other information can be found on OSHA's Hurricane Sandy web page.