Worker Safety: Protecting Employees from the Cold
Worker safety in cold weather also includes having enough insulation to stay relatively warm, yet flexible enough to be able to complete the duties of their job.
In bad weather, worker safety becomes even more important. Workers who must endure cold weather for long periods of time need to take precautions to ensure that they will remain safe and comfortable throughout the day. In addition to visibility, worker safety in cold weather also includes having enough insulation to stay relatively warm, yet flexible enough to be able to complete the duties of their job. Both employers and the employees themselves should consider these factors to remain protected when working in cold weather.
Risks
When working in frigid temperatures, workers are susceptible to many cold-related illnesses and injuries. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration includes a general duty clause that states that workers must be protected from hazards that would likely cause physical harm. Exposure to cold weather, especially for long periods, should be considered hazardous because of the injuries that exposure causes. Cold stress causes the body to respond to cold weather exposure by shifting blood flow from the extremities to the core. This is condition exacerbated by wetness, not enough clothing, exhaustion, and poor physical health. These factors lead to hypothermia, frostbite, and even trench foot. Symptoms of these conditions include shivering and stomping the feet, blisters, numbness, loss of coordination, dilated pupils, and the inability to walk or stand.
Prevention
Several safety measures and training need to be put into practice to create a safer working environment during severe cold and dry weather. At a minimum, workers should wear three layers of clothing that are loose and engineered to keep moisture away from the body. The outermost layer should be wind and rain resistant. Workers should also protect their head and face with a hood or hat since these items reduce heat emission from the body. The hands and feet should be covered with insulated gloves and socks, respectively. To remain safe in these environments, workers should also stay hydrated. Drinking warmer liquids is recommended in wintry conditions. If possible, the majority of the outdoor work should be completed during the warmest times of the day, when the sun is highest, and before night falls.
Cold Weather Safety Tips From G&M Services
G&M Services is proud of our employees and the dedication they have for safety in the workplace. Our employees are also rewarded for positive safety practices. We incorporate weekly and monthly discussions and meeting to ensure that all involved are aware of how to handle equipment and potential situations that could occur during a project.
G&M Services offers services in the way of concrete drilling and sawing, concrete scanning and FireStop. To get started with us, call today at 410-787-8828 or visit our contact page. Follow the official company page today on Google+, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.
