By // 2017-09-07
Hurricane Irma Preparedness
On 9/4/2017 the Governor declared that a state of emergency exists throughout the State of Florida, based upon the serious threat to the public health, safety and welfare posed by the Hurricane.
(State of Florida Executive Order No. 17-235)
Section D.2. Suspension of Statutes and Rules
Within the Emergency Area, the requirements and effects of statutes and rules which conflict wit the provisions of this Order are suspended to the extent necessary to implement this Order.
To the extent that any requirement to obtain a permit, lease, consent of use, or other authorization is waived by this Order, it should also be construed that the procedural requirements for obtaining such permit, lease, consent of use or other authorization, including requirements for fees and publication of notices, are suspended for the duration of this order, except as provided in subsection C.8.
With the potential for impacts from Hurricane Irma here in Central Florida, I wanted to reach out with a few tips and reminders in preparation for the storm. First and foremost is the health and safety of family, friends, neighbors and your community; then we can consider our construction sites. However, it is important to have plans in place:
Here are things to consider.
Pre-storm:
- The chance of flooding is high and residence of each community may need to evacuate.
- Remove inlet protection from streets prior to the storm to help alleviate potential flooding impacts.
- Make sure you are checking for and removing fabric from underneath grates in drop inlets.
- Remove any temporary plugs from control structures to allow normal flow of water from your site
- Loose material on the jobsite may become airborne during the storm
- Keep the project free from an accumulation of debris and scrap material that can become windblown hazards.
- Empty dumpsters and have them removed, if possible.
- Anchor portable toilets or have them picked up. They can be relocated to a secure location, such as inside the garage of a house under construction.
- Remove or secure hazardous materials
- To minimize the chance for spills; store chemicals away from drainage areas and areas prone to flooding, preferably inside a weather proof building or remove them from the site
- Repair existing perimeter BMPs
- Install additional BMP’s to protect wetlands and waterbodies. Consider flooding impacts to existing property and adjust BMPs accordingly.
- Develop, maintain and distribute a list of emergency telephone numbers and email addresses for employees and authorities.
- Organize a Damage Survey and Repair Team.
- This team will be the first on the site to assess damage after the storm and make the site safe enough for the return of the entire workforce.
During the storm:
- Follow all Federal, State and Local warnings
- Remain in a safe secure location
Post Storm:
- The Damage Survey Team will inspect the job site
- Identify and document the damage, prioritize repairs, and complete a Hazard Analysis
- Communicate and repair any hazards before work commences
- Implement the system to inform employees to return to work.
- Begin repairs
- This list is not intended to be a comprehensive construction storm plan. Please refer to state and Local authorities for further information.
Please be safe and help those around you that need help.
* Adapted from Orange County, FL and Associated Contractors of Louisiana