Safeguarding Outdoor Workers During Winter Conditions
Snow, icy road, wind chill, and freezing rain. These are not strangers to employees who work in outdoor or winter-affected environments.
Employees working in outdoor environments during winter face unique challenges that demand stringent safety protocols. Disregarding the severity of extreme cold is not an option. According to the Government of Canada, each year in Canada, more than 80 people die from over-exposure to the cold. In addition, many more people suffer injuries resulting from hypothermia and frostbite. Therefore, it's paramount to adopt thorough safety measures designed for winter conditions to safeguard their well-being and productivity.
In this article, we would like to address some of the important safety protocols tailored to extremely cold winter conditions that are essential to protect employees' health and safety.
Understand Weather Conditions
Safety in winter outdoor work relies on understanding weather conditions. Stay informed via forecasts, tracking temperature shifts, wind chill, and precipitation. It is important to know the differences between different weather conditions and the consequences they may cause. Moreover, awareness of potential hazards, such as slippery surfaces caused by ice or snow, enables the use of proper footwear for traction. as each weather element poses specific risks.
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Maintenance Checks on Equipment and Tools
Having frequent and thorough maintenance checks on outdoor equipment and tools during the winter months holds immense significance in ensuring efficiency, longevity, and, most importantly, safety. Cold temperatures can affect the functionality of equipment, causing parts to contract or become brittle, leading to potential failures. By conducting routine inspections, one can identify and rectify minor issues before they escalate, thus averting costly repairs or replacements. Moreover, maintenance checks during winter serve as a safety precaution. Outdoor tools and machinery, such as snow blowers or generators, are extensively used in colder seasons. Neglecting maintenance might result in hazardous situations, like malfunctioning parts or electrical failures, endangering both operators and bystanders. Regular checks ensure that safety mechanisms are functional, minimizing the risk of accidents.
Invest in Commercial Outdoor Heaters
Investing in robust commercial outdoor heaters can be a pivotal measure to protect outdoor workers amid the biting winter months. These heaters are effective in ensuring the well-being and productivity of employees by offering consistent warmth in outdoor work settings. Make sure to get quality heaters, engineered for outdoor durability, that effectively disperse heat across work areas. Don't forget about electrical safety by avoiding overloading outlets as it significantly reduces the potential for fire hazards.
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Director of Emergency Management I Florida Professional Emergency Manager I Connector I Keynote Speaker I MSG U.S. Army (Ret)
8moExcellent article! This shows a true concern for the health and safety of our employees