It was a long brutally hot summer—and the crisp change toward winter is welcomed by many. As the pleasantly dipping temperatures head to the “brrrrr” stage, as Safety, are you preparing your facility and workers (and management) for the different hazards associated with the colder weather? Have you planned ahead well?
Cooler temperatures bring along unique hazards, as well as those we see regularly. Slip-and-fall injuries rise dramatically, falls from elevations such as ice-glazed steps can see workers’ compensation costs skyrocket with one bad storm. Snow removal from roofs or iced-over vents are certainly non-routine activities. Make a list of such potentials and discuss with your crew; you want the most fit and alert ready for each job before the need. If you anticipate special equipment needs, go ahead and set up the contacts now so that everyone knows their role.
- Awareness. It seems simple, but reminding employees about the season’s changing hazards can help. Include company expectations and how their not showing up impacts the team effort. Make sure those who are “mission critical” know this and fully understand their responsibility to come in if possible. Tell them when really hazardous weather events are expected and alter your company work hours if needed. Review your policies and update supervisors on them. Make sure you have a backup list for temps or other contractors if needed for a 24/7 operation.
- Diversity. If your workforce is multi-cultural and multilingual, make sure to show and tell in addition to printed materials. I have more than once had to explain/show what an ice scraper was used for on iced-over vehicles and how/when to use it for staff hired from tropical or desert countries. You may have to explain in detail over and over cold hazards, carbon monoxide poisoning, using candles/open flames, not to use space heaters, grills used inside, how to walk on ice-slick sidewalks if you can’t get them cleared, etc. Handouts with pictures often help, too. In this case, safety is extended to homes because you need your workforce safe and back at work.
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