Strategies for Restaurants Hit by Flooding and Power Outages During Rainy Seasons

Floodwaters can pose serious health risks, as they can be contaminated with sewage, dirt, oil, and other toxic substances. These contaminants can contaminate food and surfaces, leading to the spread of bacteria and disease. Floodwater can also cause structural damage to a restaurant, creating an unsafe environment for customers and employees.

If your restaurant has been flooded, be sure to contact a remediation contractor that will help you dry out your facility appropriately. This will include removing all standing water, cleaning and disinfecting all surfaces, and discarding any food that has come into contact with floodwater. Please refer to this handout from the Oregon Health Authority (OHA). This fact sheet provides information on how to properly store food, clean and sanitize equipment, and prevent the spread of bacteria.

If the power has been interrupted in your facility, you should refer to the OHA fact sheet on power outages for guidance on how to safely operate your restaurant. This fact sheet provides information on how to properly store food, clean and sanitize equipment, and prevent the spread of bacteria.