Analysis of the last 150 years identifies the most active month for hurricanes making landfall is September, then August and October are a close second and third. June, being the first month kicking off hurricane season, is typically considered a relatively low active month for hurricanes. In Florida, June ushers in the beginning of the tropical season that is accompanied by high frequency of heavy rain. June can typically produce over 6 inches of rain. There are exceptions, and a hurricane can certainly arrive early. We should all take precautionary measures in preparing for hurricane season now!
Hurricanes can be a major concern for industrial type facilities. It is extremely important for all industrial businesses prepare early for hurricane season to ensure minimal damage to product inventory, facility equipment, and any environmental exposures that can potentially take place during a hurricane.
Regarding to OSHA hurricane preparedness and response, section 29 CFR 1910.38 states that an emergency action plan must be in writing and publicly available to all employees if there are 10 or more employees on staff.
Hurricane winds can typically reach 150 to 200 miles per hour. This high wind speed indicates a severe hurricane that can cause disastrous damage. Additionally, hurricanes are known to produce extreme heavy rainfall that could last for days. Industrial facilities particularly near the coast should take precautionary measures. It is extremely important that all industrial facilities identify their unique vulnerabilities and create their own distinctive hurricane preparedness plan.
There are several identifiable vulnerabilities that are typically associated with industrial facilities. Objects from a facility or site, if not properly secured, can easily blow away and create a danger to others, adjacent buildings, and general infrastructure. While preparing for the storm, it is important to secure or relocate all nonessential equipment to a safe indoor location. Specific to the Chemical Processing Industry (CPI), typically located near rivers or coastal areas, should have a high priority to anchor down any liquid fluid tanks and containers. Marinas and Boatyards are also extremely vulnerable due to location near the coast. During hurricane season, hurricane preparedness should be a daily occurrence during all general maintenance and organizational management activity at a marina. All industrial type organizations should proactively prepare for flooding which can damage equipment and facility infrastructure. Studies state that flooding is one of the top issues for most industrial facilities to restart operations after a hurricane.
Here are several things to think about to ensure minimal risk for an environmental hazard to occur during a hurricane.
- The Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) team should document a specific hurricane preparedness communication plan when there is imminent danger of a hurricane approaching.
- The team should also review the organization’s holistic Hurricane Emergency Action Plan and identify specific actions related to the SWPPP and stormwater compliance measures and requirements.
- Inspect and make emergency repairs to drains, gutters, and inlets to the facilities infrastructure.
- Secure storage of liquid drums and if possible, relocate indoors or to a sheltered area.
- Secure or cover large equipment or materials that are exposed to outdoors.
We should all remember that safety is the number one priority in developing any hurricane preparedness plan. KCI can help before, during and after the storm. Visit us today to learn more about our services at www.kcinow.com.
