Safety Check – On the Job Winter Hazards 2.0
Colder weather brings snow and ice which means cozied on the couch watching movies and drinking hot chocolate for some people. However, there are always people out in the elements clearing roads, fixing fallen trees and power lines, and responding to these winter hazards. For outdoor workers, there is the potential for on-the-job winter hazards such as cold stress, snow and ice accidents, and many others. We have gathered a list of what to look out for and how to avoid winter hazards.
Cold Stress for Outdoor Workers
Anyone working outdoors throughout the colder months is at risk for cold stress on the job. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cold stress can include hypothermia, frostbite, trench foot, chilblain, or cold water immersion. It is essential for employers and workers alike to understand the proper steps to avoid these negative health effects.
Cold Stress Risk Factors & Prevention
Knowing the risk factors for cold stress is essential for prevention. Cold stress risk factors include:
- Wetness and dampness
- Improper dress
- Exhaustion
- Predisposing health conditions
- Poor physical conditioning
Employers and employees should also understand the recommended methods to prevent cold stress including:
- Train workers to recognize the signs and symptoms
- Provide employees with heaters or indoor stations
- Dress properly in PPE
Snow and Ice Employee Hazards
Snow and ice accidents can come in varying forms from winter driving and shoveling snow to slips and trips. It is essential for employees and their on-site managers to understand potential winter hazards that accompany treacherous conditions.
Snow and Ice Accident Prevention
Employers should promote safe driving at all times of the year, but especially during the colder months to avoid winter weather accidents. Equipment brakes, engines, tires, and oil systems should all be inspected before the first snowfall. When clearing snow, workers should understand potential hazards like slick roads, falling snow, and inadequate equipment. To avoid falling, employees should wear proper footwear that is insulated, water resistant, and have excellent traction.
Fallen Trees and Power Lines
Whether you clear Right of Way or you complete road maintenance for a city, employees can often encounter fallen trees and power lines during hazardous weather. There are many potential hazards that an outdoor worker can encounter during the winter.
Power Lines and Trees in the Winter
Potential hazards for repairing downed or damaged power lines often include contact electrocution, fires caused by an energized line, or being struck by collapsing poles. When responding to storms and disasters, employees should practice safe working recommendations like using appropriate tools and equipment. When removing downed trees and large limbs, potential winter hazards can include broken limbs contacting energized power lines, falling from heights, and being injured by equipment. Wearing proper PPE can help prevent these accidents from occurring.
Winter PPE Recommendations
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends outdoor workers wear proper protective clothing. Their recommendations include:
- Wearing at least three layers of loose-fitting clothing
- An inner layer of wool, silk, or synthetics
- A middle layer of wool or synthetic
- An outer layer of wind and rain protection
- A knit mask to cover the face and mouth
- A hat that covers ears
- Insulated gloves
- Insulated and waterproof boots
Trust Your Employees and Contractors
Whether you are an employer or a client hiring contractors, it is essential to hire those that understand the importance of safety. Here at Lanracorp, we invest in safety from top to bottom. We hire employees eager about safety and the best equipment to mitigate hazards. Get in contact with us today to learn more about our Innovate4Safety Program and how we get a job done safely.