The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is offering a free training program, Rebuild Healthy Homes, in the New Orleans area from now through December.
The program is designed to teach homeowners and workers in New Orleans how to safely rehabilitate properties damaged by hurricanes. The training addresses all of the most significant safety issues that anyone rehabilitating a hurricane-damaged home faces and works to ensure that anyone working on hurricane-damaged homes protects themselves properly in an effort to reduce the number of work-related injuries and illnesses.
Organizers say the goal of the training is to prevent injuries and illness through a simple 4-step process: 1) safely assessing storm damage, 2) creating work plans, 3) performing preparation work and 4) rebuilding. Workshops provide practical tips on how to identify and avoid dishonest & fraudulent contractors and find reputable, licensed contractors, and the proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). A step-by-step reference guide is provided to each participant at no charge and free po-boys and refreshments are provided.
The classes are just three hours long and are held at many convenient locations throughout New Orleans.
In the classes, attendees will learn about:
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The proper handling of mold, lead-based paint and other housing-related hazards,
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Accident prevention to avoid heat stress, electrical shock and carbon monoxide poisoning,
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How to determine if the services of a professional are needed.
Everyone attending the workshops will receive:
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A step-by-step guide to follow along,
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“Hands-on” instruction from experienced local trainers,
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A complete list of supplies and materials you’ll need to begin the rebuilding process.
HUD launched the Healthy Homes Initiative (HHI) to protect children and their families from housing-related health and safety hazards.
For times, dates and locations of the workshops, or to register, go to: http://www.rebuildhealthyhomes.com/. You may also contact Larry Tortorich at (504) 382-5027.