Many workers need to be outdoors in winter to do their job. However, working outside means dealing with low temperatures, snow, and ice, which can affect your working abilities. Every year in Pennsylvania, there are hundreds of winter weather-related work injuries. However, many of these injuries can be avoided. All you have to do is follow some simple rules when you are working outside in cold weather, then you greatly decrease your chances of getting hurt at work.
Simple Tips for Working Safely Outside during Winter Weather
When working outside, it is especially important to dress properly because working too hard or not dressing warm enough could lead to overexertion or hypothermia. Hypothermia is a major concern for outside winter weather workers. It can sneak up on you. Also, it does not have to be very cold for there to be a risk of hypothermia.
Working outside during the winter may require working long hours in the dark or during dusk. Because it gets darker earlier, you should make sure there is adequate lighting so that accidents such as trips and falls do not occur.
If working at sites that are typically covered with snow, shovels should be available for clearing snow, which could serve as a tripping hazard. You also must make sure walkways, driveways, sidewalks, and scaffolding planks are cleared of ice and snow before using them.
Adequate hydration must also be maintained either through regular breaks or by bringing water with you to keep yourself working at peak efficiency and safety. This is important during any season.
One of the most important things to remember working outdoors in winter is weather-related contingencies. It can be harder to know what the weather will do, so monitoring forecasts is important, and you must make sure there is extra clothing and possibly an emergency kit for working outside in harsh conditions, which can include things such food rations, first aid kits, blankets, extra warm clothing, and other helpful items.
Overexertion and fatigue can be a problem working outside in winter because of working harder to accomplish tasks such as shoveling snow, working with ice covered tools, or working long hours. To prevent overexertion, make sure to take breaks and eat well during working hours, which could include energy drinks or snacks like trail mix.
Snow and ice could make working with machinery difficult. Follow proper use guidelines if available and keep safety equipment such as ropes and gloves nearby for unforeseen purposes. If working around heavy machinery, protective clothing should also be worn, especially hardhats. Hardhats protect against falling objects that could hit the head resulting in serious injury or death.
West Chester Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at the Law Office of Deborah M. Truscello Have Been Successfully Representing Injured Workers for Over a Decade
If you have been injured in a work-related accident, you have certain rights and are eligible for certain benefits. Sometimes with Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation, you need help with your claim. The West Chester Workers’ Compensation lawyers at the Law Office of Deborah M. Truscello will make sure your rights are protected and you receive the benefits for which you are entitled. Learn more at a free consultation by filling out an online registration form or calling (610) 892-4940. Our office is in Media, Pennsylvania. We represent clients in Media, Bucks County, Chester County, Delaware County, Lancaster, Montgomery County, Norristown, Philadelphia, Reading, West Chester, and throughout Pennsylvania.
