We can’t control the weather, but we can be prepared for extreme weather conditions.
Will Flower
In northern parts of the U.S. and in Canada, cooler temperatures in the Fall signal the oncoming arrival of winter’s freezing temperatures. As part of our ongoing commitment to safety, we are focusing on preparing for cold weather. Extended exposure to cold temperatures can lead to serious health problems such as frostbite and hypothermia. Workers in the waste and recycling industry work in diverse weather conditions, which, in some parts of North America, includes extreme cold weather. Here are eight tips to keep workers safe during the big chill:
- Keep a watch on the weather. Pay attention to local weather forecasts and be ready for extreme cold. Exposure to temperatures for prolonged periods of time can be dangerous.
- Learn the signs and symptoms of cold-related illnesses and injuries. Early warning signs of cold weather injuries include uncontrolled shivering, slurred speech, clumsy movements, fatigue and confused behavior. If not treated, the injured person may stop shivering, have blue skin, dilated pupils, slowed pulse and breathing and potential loss of consciousness. These signs require immediate emergency help.
- Educate your employees. In the late Fall and throughout the Winter review cold-weather precautions with your team. Explain the danger of cold-related injuries and what employees can do to protect themselves, including wearing proper clothing for cold, wet and windy conditions. Wear layers of lightweight clothing to stay warm. Gloves and a hat will help prevent the loss of body heat.
- Instruct supervisors to keep a close watch on employees and to observe for warning and danger signs associated with extreme cold related injuries (see Tip #2).
- Remind employees to get plenty of rest. The body will use more energy to keep muscles warm.
- Watch out for high-risk employees. Workers may face increased risks of cold-related injuries when they take certain medications, are in poor physical condition or suffer from illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension or cardiovascular disease.
- Be careful on snow and ice. Make sure you are taking precautions when driving and walking on snow and ice. Slow down and use the three-point of contact rule for entering and exiting vehicles.
- Space heaters will start to show up in the office as temperatures fall. If you allow the use of space heaters, make sure place they are secure and keep flammable material away from the heater. Consider using timers to ensure that heaters get turned off when not needed.
Bonus Safety Tips
- Make sure your equipment and facilities are protected during cold weather.
- Protect pipes from freezing.
- Be alert for hot coals from fireplaces that homeowners may have discarded.
We can’t control the weather, but we can be prepared for extreme weather conditions. This winter, be ready for cold temperatures and keep watch on your fellow workers as safety is everyone’s #1 responsibility.
Next month’s safety tip will focus on personal fitness and the importance of staying in good physical condition to ensure your safety on the job.
Next month’s safety tip will focus on personal fitness and the need to stay in shape.
Will Flower is the President of Green Stream Recycling headquartered on Long Island, NY. Green Stream Recycling specializes in the processing of recyclable materials and the creation of high quality recyclable materials for manufactures. Will has 31 years of experience in the area of solid waste management and environmental protection. He has worked in the Director’s Office of the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, for Waste Management, Inc. and later, for Republic Services. Inc. He has held operational and executive leadership positions.
Share your safety tip. Submit your suggestions to Will Flower at [email protected].