It’s that time of year when snow, ice, freezing rain, and windy conditions can make a cold day an extremely hazardous one. Follow these safety tips and protect your workers:
- Learn the signs and symptoms of cold-induced illnesses and injuries such as frostbite and hypothermia and respond quickly should they occur. Danger signs include uncontrolled shivering, slurred speech, clumsy movements, fatigue and confused behavior. If these signs are observed, call for emergency help.
- Wear proper clothing for cold, wet and windy conditions, including layers that can be adjusted to changing conditions.
- Take frequent short breaks in warm, dry shelters to allow your body to warm up.
- Be aware of ice and other slippery conditions. Keep pathways and walking/working surfaces clear of ice and snow. Sprinkle icy areas with salt or sand to provide added traction. Store shovels and snow removal/clearing materials in an easily accessible area known to all workers.
- Be aware of icicles hanging from roofs or building edges. Where possible safely remove them, or barricade the areas to keep workers from working or walking beneath them
- Before using ladders or scaffolds, ensure that they are completely free of ice, snow and other materials that may cause slips or falls.
For additional information on cold weather safety visit the OSHA website at www.osha.gov or contact Don Ashton, Director of Safety Services, at dashton@64.207.152.120 .
The management and staff of the GBCA wish you and yours a Happy, Healthy, and Safe 2017!
