Flooding and High Water Response Safety

• Workers swept away by moving water
• Vehicles entering flooded roads or washed-out areas
• Hidden holes, debris, or damaged pavement under water
• Electrical hazards from downed lines or energized equipment
• Contaminated floodwater exposure
• Poor visibility and traffic hazards during storm response

Flooding and high water response can create dangerous conditions very quickly. Roads, ditches, culverts, creeks, low-water crossings, basements, lift stations, and utility sites can all become unsafe when water rises or begins moving fast.

Moving water should never be underestimated. Even shallow water can knock a person down or move a vehicle if the current is strong enough. Workers should avoid entering moving water unless the task has been properly planned, controlled, and authorized.

Flooded roads can hide serious hazards. Washed-out pavement, missing shoulders, open manholes, debris, downed signs, sinkholes, and damaged culverts may not be visible beneath the water.

Vehicles should not be driven through flooded areas unless the route has been evaluated and it is safe to do so. Water depth, current, road condition, and vehicle type all matter.

Electrical hazards must be considered during flooding. Downed power lines, submerged electrical equipment, flooded panels, generators, pumps, and extension cords can create shock or electrocution risks.

Floodwater may be contaminated with sewage, chemicals, fuel, sharp debris, animal waste, or other hazards. Workers should avoid unnecessary contact and use PPE appropriate for the exposure.

Traffic control and visibility are important during storm response. Drivers may be distracted, visibility may be poor, and barricades or signs may need to be placed quickly to keep the public out of dangerous areas.

Flood response safety depends on conservative decisions. The goal is to protect workers and the public without putting responders into water, traffic, electrical, or contamination hazards that are not controlled.

• Do not enter moving water unless the hazard is controlled.
• Avoid driving through flooded roads unless confirmed safe.
• Watch for hidden washouts, debris, holes, and damaged pavement.
• Stay away from downed power lines and submerged electrical equipment.
• Use PPE when contact with floodwater is possible.
• Set up traffic control to keep the public away from hazards.
• Communicate changing flood conditions quickly.

• Where is water moving fast enough to create a hazard?
• Could the road or work surface be washed out under the water?
• Are electrical hazards present near flooded areas?
• What PPE is needed for floodwater exposure?
• How will the crew communicate closures, barricades, or changing conditions?