Spring is a great time to relax, thaw and enjoy outdoor activities again. It is also a time of hazards, particularly safety threats. Here are tips for staying safe at work this spring.
Severe Weather
Spring is here, and so are crazy weather patterns. In the spring, nothing is off-limits, so be prepared for snow, rain, sleet, hail, thunderstorms, and possibly tornadoes. You must have clear expectations for outdoor workers regardless of if they are on-site or in a remote location. Establish clear guidelines on when to stop working and seek shelter. Regular drills can help keep employees prepared for dangerous storms. Download a weather app for your smartphone and keep your eyes open for inclement weather.
Dangerous Driving Conditions
Driving in snow and ice might persist into spring. Other areas might be thawing out, bringing flooding and slippery road conditions. Have protocols for every road scenario and provide refresher training on defensive and distracted driving techniques. Never drive more rapidly than what is safe for the current road conditions. When driving in bad weather, slow down!
Flooding
A washed-out roadway is undoubtedly a hazard for outdoor workers and drivers. Avoid flowing and standing water which can carry you or your car away. The water is probably deeper than you think and might contain debris, tree branches or potholes. Please pay attention to barricades, and do not ignore them by driving past. If forced to navigate through the water, take extra precautions by going slowly, estimating the depth of the water, and avoiding any area with a downed power line.
Slips and Trips
Things melt during the spring, so be prepared for muddy, slippery conditions. Pay particular attention to entrances, parking lots, and stairs at your workplace. If you have a business where service is involved, there is an additional liability with customers, so be careful. To help prevent slips and trips, keep floors clean, dry, and free from obstruction, and post warning signs for wet floors.
Sun Hazards
Rain, flooding, and other severe weather are not the only things to worry about this summer. The sun can also be a hazard. The sun threatens with heat stress, sunburns, and UV radiation. Frequently we forget that the sun can be as harmful in April as in July. Do not wait until summer to put an ultraviolet exposure policy in place! Be sure to offer breaks, shade and access to water.
Insects, Rodents, and Vegetation
This spring, watch for poison ivy and ticks that might carry Lyme disease. Workers must wear gloves and long sleeves and use insect repellent when working near tall grass and forested areas. Rodents may destroy the wiring of equipment at your facility. Check wiring on all equipment not recently used. Speaking of the outdoors, are you looking for a construction crew job? Check out the opportunities available now at LaborMAX.
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