Winter is challenging for all industries when it comes to safety. The manufacturing/construction industries have their share of winter hazards, including exposure to cold temperatures and slipping, tripping, or falling on icy walkways and stairs. Employers must prevent illnesses, injuries, and fatalities by controlling hazards in the workplace impacted by winter weather. There are several preemptive things you can do to identify and address the challenges of staying safe this winter. You can keep your team safe this winter from weather-related accidents, injuries, and fatalities.

Monitor the Weather

The first step in keeping your team warm is keeping track of the day’s weather forecast. When a blizzard blows in, you do not want workers on a job site. Monitor your local weather as well as the National Weather Service. Be aware of when temperatures and conditions make outside work dangerous. Consider scheduling work for the warmest parts of the day.

Limit Exposure

When wind and snow blow in and the outside temperatures are low, try to schedule outdoor work in short blocks. You can break up larger projects into smaller tasks or provide short, frequent breaks in a warm area like a tent with portable heaters.

Proper Gear

Gear that is appropriate for extreme weather conditions is a must for your employees. This gear includes boots, heavy coats, gloves, and other essential items. You should require all workers to wear clothing that will keep them warm and dry while preventing hypothermia and frostbite. Employees should have shoes that have non-slip soles to prevent falls.

Monitor Work Sites

Any debris is always a risk at a work site. However, in the winter, it poses an increased risk. Try to clean snow and ice from overhangs and rooftops, and be aware that snow can hide dangerous material that can fall and injure a worker.

Remove the Ice and Snow

Before your team starts work at a site, remove the snow, and put down salt or sand. No matter how time-sensitive a job may be, your workers must avoid working on scaffolding in ice and snow.

Inspect Vehicles

Before the winter settles in, inspect all company vehicles to determine proper function. Add winter emergency kits to all cars. The kits must include an ice scraper, snow brush, shovel, tow chain, flashlight with extra batteries, emergency flares, a blanket, snacks, and water.

Frostbite and Hypothermia

Even with all your thoughtful preparation, issues will still come up. Ensure that all supervisors and workers know the symptoms of hypothermia and frostbite so they can receive emergency medical attention. When team members understand what they are looking for, they will likely seek help sooner.

If you need manufacturing and construction workers in Denver, contact PrideStaff!