Winter Safety Precautions That Reduce Workers' Compensation Claims
Cold winter weather affects employees in several ways and can lead to an increase in injuries and illnesses. Reduce Workers’ Compensation claims during cold weather when you take several safety precautions.
Avoid Slips and Fall
When winter weather hits, clear snow and ice off walkways, keep the inside floors dry and instruct employees to wear sturdy shoes. These steps can reduce slips and falls, two common causes of workplace injuries.
Address the Causes of Cold Stress
Cold stress occurs when the internal body or core temperature decreases. The result can be hypothermia, frostbite and even death. Address the causes of cold stress to avoid this danger. Those causes include:
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Dampness.
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Improper dress.
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Poor physical conditioning.
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Health conditions, including hypertension, hypothyroidism and diabetes.
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Exhaustion.
Dress Properly
Layered clothing made of wool, silk or synthetic material keeps employees warm and dry. Clothing should also be loose rather than fitted. Remind employees to cover exposed skin and wear insulated footwear for added protection.
Stay Hydrated
Employees can become dehydrated even in cold weather. Encourage your employees to drink water and warm, sweetened and non-caffeinated beverages throughout the day.
Improve Dexterity and Grip
Employees who become so cold that they can’t feel their fingers may drop tools or materials and cause accidents. Provide gloves and other protective gear to help employees maintain their dexterity and grip as they work.
Provide Engineering Controls
Radiant heaters, shields that reduce drafts and outdoor shelters that protect employees from sleet and snow are examples of engineering controls that protect employees as they work. Evaluate your workplace and implement the appropriate engineering controls.
Change Work Hours
Temperatures are lowest overnight, so give employees the option to work during warm daytime hours.
Use a Buddy System
Allow employees to work as a team. This way, they can encourage each other to take breaks and monitor their buddies for signs of cold stress.
Encourage Breaks
Employees should be allowed to take breaks as needed. They can go to a warm area and thaw before returning to their outdoor duties.
Boost Mood
Consistently cold temperatures and dreary weather can cause employees to feel irritated, grumpy, unproductive, and uninterested in work. They may even become distracted, which could contribute to accidents. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) lamps and a warm break room environment can boost your employees’ moods.
Provide Winter Safety Training
To create a safe work environment all winter, train employees. They should wear the proper clothing, learn how to recognize cold stress illnesses and injuries, and know how to give first aid confidently.
Winter weather can cause injuries and illnesses on the job. Implement these safety precautions to protect your employees and prevent Workers’ Compensation claims.