Workplace Winter Safety

Workplace winter hazards include falls, hypothermia, exhaustion and flu pandemics.

Workplace winter safety programs protect workers whose jobs keep them outdoors during bad weather. Employees who brave the elements must be educated on prevention of frostbite and hypothermia, as well as how to navigate through icy roadways. Company managers have to stay on their toes because their businesses could be hit hard by the spread of the flu, forcing them to make tough decisions during the winter months about the overall safety and welfare of their workforce.

Weather

Outdoor workers are especially vulnerable to wintertime perils. They risk frostbite, hypothermia and falls. These employees must take precautions against heart attacks and back injuries when clearing walkways and parking lots. Another potential hazard is a roof collapse from accumulated snow. Utility workers face electrocution and burns from downed live wires. Employees who work long hours during winter weather emergencies--such as firefighters, police officers, snowplow drivers and utility repairmen--must cope with exhaustion and dehydration.

Flu

Absenteeism because of a flu outbreak can cripple business operations for some employers. January and February are the peak months for absences related to respiratory illnesses. "But our research shows respiratory illnesses are not to be taken lightly. They keep many workers off the job, making this a major concern for the financial health of businesses too," Glenn Shapiro, vice president of claims for The Hartford’s Group Benefits Division, tells the Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM).

Awareness

Safety organizations provide resources regarding workplace winter safety hazards. For example, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) distributes free posters in English and Spanish that explain precautions for outdoor workers during cold weather. OSHA suggests dressing in layers, consuming sports drinks and eating high-calorie pasta dishes. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) publicizes steps to avoid the spread of contagious flu bugs among co-workers, such as coughing into a sleeve and disinfecting phones.

Attendance

Attendance issues can leave employees feeling as exasperated as a winter blizzard. Employees may be docked wages if they cannot report to their jobs for safety reasons. At the same time, an employee who forces himself to get to work risks injury from a fall or auto accident. Some companies allow employees to make up missed time when they are forced to stay home due to harsh weather. Smaller businesses close for the day and compensate all employees.

Preparedness

Many companies remind employees of workplace winter safety before a storm or flu outbreak. Some businesses lead training sessions to encourage outdoor workers to dress appropriately and work in pairs during blizzards. Other employers provide flu shots and information on when to remain home if symptoms appear. CDC outlines precautions that businesses should take to prepare for a pandemic, such as limiting contact with customers and selecting one worker who will assist anyone who becomes ill at work.

References

• Occupational Safety And Health Administration (OSHA): Winter Storms
• Centers for Disease Control And Prevention (CDC): Planning for 2009 H1N1 Influenza: A Preparedness Guide for Small Business
• Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM): Winter Wellness Woes: A Flurry of Disability Claims
• Medical Group Management Association: Bad Weather: What's Your Medical Practice's HR Policy?