List of business relief resources for WTC area, Sept 2001

NYC 9/11 Public Portal Document

NYC Health THE NEW YORK CITY DEPARTMENT of HEALTH

HEALTH OF RESCUE PERSONNEL What risks do human body pmts found inside ofexploded and collapsed buildings pose to rescue workers?

There is no threat of a general outbreak of infectious disease among workers at the site. You may be at risk for infection if you cut yourself with an object contaminated with blood, body fluids or tissue, or if these materials touch your eyes, nose or mouth or areas of broken skin. Bad odors that come from decomposing bodies, although unpleasant, are not harmful.

IFfeaT should I do if rm injured or splashed?

Immediately report to your supervisor any injuries or splashes to eyes, nose, mouth or broken skin by blood or body fluids so that appropriate medical evaluation and care can be provided. Infections can be prevented if you follow appropriate precautions.

What precautions should rescue workers take?

Do not touch bodies or body parts directly. Rescue workers who expect they might have direct contact with human remains should do the following:

• Wear heavy-duty waterproof gloves to protect against injury from shaip objects. • Use eye protection and respirators equipped with OVAG cartridges to protect eyes, nose, and mouth from splash exposures and noxious odors. • Wear protective garments to protect skin and clothes. • Immediately wash hands with soap and water after removing gloves. Alcohol-based hygiene products are a useful substitute only when hands are not visibly soiled.

How can overall health be affectedfrom exposure to decomposing remains?

Seeing decomposing remains can cause emotional trauma, grief, anger and sadness. Immediately after the disaster, it will be normal for you to feel:

• Numbness • Denial or shock • Flashbacks and nightmares • Grief reactions to loss • Anger • Despair • Sadness • Hopelessness

What should a rescue worker do if he or she experiences emotional £stress?

NYC-WTC_000142379