Page 49 - OHS, October 2022

is required to travel as part of their job. Because these policies may involve stopping for an extended period of time or staying an additional day away from home, be sure that employees will have adequate funds to cover additional expenses.
If it is essential for fleet or service vehicles to operate in snowy or icy conditions, plan for each vehicle to be serviced and maintained before winter. Stock each vehicle with chains or studded tires and an emergency kit that includes sand, a shovel, a flashlight with batteries, a snow brush, an ice scraper, emergency flares, water, snacks, blankets and any other essential items. Encourage employees to keep the fuel tank full and their cell phones charged.
Using Powered Equipment
Many people own snow blowers, snow plows, utility vehicles and chainsaws, so it can be easy to overlook the need for training on how to correctly use these types of power tools and equipment. This can be further complicated because small power tools and equipment can be readily purchased at local home improvement stores and sometimes no one is aware that it’s onsite until they see the item in use.
Review—or create, if necessary—procedures for using all types of powered equipment. Include procedures for clearing jams and refueling. For items that are rechargeable, ensure that there are suitable power sources and locations for recharging.
Overexertion
Proper hydration, nutrition and taking breaks aren’t just summertime needs. They’re also important during winter tasks like shoveling snow and removing ice.
Shoveling snow is a highly aerobic activity, whether it is done manually or with the aid of a snow blower. Even for those who are well conditioned and in good health, working in cold weather increases risk because low temperatures increase heart rates and blood pressure.
Each year, more than 100 people die from heart attacks suffered while shoveling snow, and thousands more are injured, according to the National Safety Council. Back injuries, exhaustion, dehydration and muscle strains are among the top injuries reported.
Establish a stretching program and demonstrate proper shoveling techniques. Employees should also be encouraged to rest as often as necessary.
Clearing Snow from a Roof
The weight of excessive snow or ice on a roof can pose a risk of it collapsing. But, before sending crews onto the roof, a determination must be made by a competent person about whether or not the roof is structurally safe to have people on it.
Even if a roof is structurally sound, methods that do not involve employees or contractors being on the roof to remove the snow are generally safer. Aerial lifts, appropriate scaffolds with non-slip working surfaces and rungs, and even ladders are options that can help reduce risk.
If having workers on the roof is determined to be the best (or only) option, plan for hazards such as slippery surfaces, higher winds, lower temperatures, electrical wires and skylights. Verify the use of anchorage points, fall protection gear, proper
outerwear, rest and warming schedules and the use of tools with insulated handles.
Power Outages
Downed power lines and the loss of power are inconvenient. They can also be dangerous. Plan for extended outages. Keep an updated list of contacts for utility providers as well as names, locations and phone numbers of local companies that rent power generators, equipment, office space or other items that may be necessary during an extended outage.
Teach employees not to move or work around downed power lines. These should only be cleared and handled by trained utility workers.
Seasonal Illnesses
Colds, flus and pneumonia happen more frequently in winter months. Cold weather can also aggravate existing conditions like arthritis, chronic headaches and sinus problems.
For manufacturing facilities, distribution centers and service organizations, having a large number of employees call off due to illnesses creates several challenges. This can be especially problematic if employees with mild symptoms cannot work from home.
Before winter arrives, stock up on hand sanitizer, soap, tissues, disposable towels and surface cleaners. Post signs in common areas to remind everyone to wash their hands often and to stay home when they are unwell.
Create a plan that outlines essential functions and determine how those functions can be performed with minimal staff. If necessary, cross-train employees so that multiple people are capable of completing a variety of essential functions.
Winter Blues
Slip and fall injuries and seasonal illnesses aren’t the only statistics that go up in the winter. Depression, Seasonal Affective Disorder, mental fatigue, holiday stress and other mental health conditions also increase in cold-weather months.
Create or review sick leave policies to clarify that sick time can be taken for both physical and mental conditions. Company Employee Assistance Programs may also be able to provide programs, posters, safety talks and additional resources to help everyone recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health conditions.
Working in winter weather adds challenges and increases risk. But the safety hazards involved with working in cold conditions can be identified, planned for and minimized.
Karen D. Hamel CSP, CIT, WACH, is a regulatory expert, trainer and technical writer for HalenHardy.
REFERENCES
1. https://www.osha.gov/data/commonstats
2. https://www.osha.gov/pls/imis/citedstandard.naics?p_naics=236&p_
esize=&p_state=FEFederal
3. https://www.osha.gov/fall-protection
4. https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/ standardnumber/1910/1910.30
www.ohsonline.com
OCTOBER 2022 | Occupational Health & Safety 45