Enhancing Awareness and Use of Personal Protective Equipment in Community Disaster Recovery
Conference Contribution ResearchOnline@JCUAbstract
Context: In the immediate aftermath of a disaster event, communities typically focus on the rehabilitation and recovery process – whether restoration of critical infrastructure, salvaging homes and possessions, or restoring businesses. There are manuals, practical guidelines and even professional standards for disaster recovery activities to ensure safety and prevent potential injuries. While formal response efforts obligate prescribed approaches, anecdotal evidence from recent events suggests that such information and guidance is poorly utilised by members of the wider community, particularly concerning the importance of using personal protective equipment (PPE). Process: As most households possess, or have easy access to items such as gloves, masks, protective clothing and enclosed shoes, this study will focus on information and advice regarding the use of PPE in disaster clean-up, one of the simplest individual safety measures individuals can use. Analysis: The devastating flood events in Southeast Queensland and New South Wales in 2022 provide an opportunity to conduct a rapid desktop review of traditional and social media regarding the communication of relevant community-based PPE safety guidance. Health and Safety warnings will also be explored. Outcomes: The results of this desktop review will reveal the extent to which community-based disaster recovery PPE information is prioritised and publicly disseminated. Such insight is invaluable in enhancing post disaster management and prevention strategies. Learning Outcomes: While basic PPE is readily accessible to most members of the public, safer community recovery practices require awareness and engagement leading to the appropriate use of PPE.
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Safety 2022: 14th World Conference on Injury Prevention & Safety Promotion
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1
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Adelaide, SA, Australia
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Public Health Association of Australia
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Adelaide, SA, Australia
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