Prevent Work Accidents Caused by Harsh Weather Conditions

We are half way through November already; this year has really flown by. The Halloween decorations are coming down and the holiday commercials and decorations are going up. The weather is changing. No more warm days and plenty of sunlight. It is now cold and windy days. Fall is in full swing and winter is right around the corner. With these two seasons upon us they will bring the cold inclement weather. This type of weather can cause a person to be a victim of a work-related accident due to the negligence of others.

The extreme weather conditions can cause accidents for people who work either outdoors or indoors. Being forced to work outdoors during harsh weather conditions can increase the chance of accidents. However, people who work indoors can also be at risk. If a property is not properly maintained, making it suitable for people to enter and exit the building safety, accident may occur.

Weather Conditions that can affect workers

Work Accidents caused by Rain

During the fall and winter months temperatures are usually lower which can cause rain to not only create wet surfaces but also icy and slippery. When walkways or work areas are wet traction can be limited, increasing the chance of a slip and fall accident occurring. Also, the rain can cause objects to become slick as well. This can affect a person’s ability to maintain control, potentially causing a falling objects accident.

Working in the rain can also cause a person visibility to become limited. Visibility might be limited due to the amount of rain fall. When a person’s vision is limited it may become difficult for them to perform their everyday tasks. If this is an arising issue during the daily tasks of your work the possibility of injury could be increases dramatically. If you or someone on your work site is unable to perform their everyday tasks work should come to a halt immediately.

Work Accidents caused by Snow

When the months start getting colder, the chances of rain turning into snow fall increase. Although there are similar risks with rain and snow, snow provides a different variety of risks as well. When there is a large snow fall, items can become hidden. The chances of falls or slips can also increase because there is an uncertainty of exactly what a person is walking or stepping on. Machinery or work tools can become damaged or malfunction due to snowfall affecting the components of that item. Caution must be used while working in the snow to help prevent injuries to workers.

Working outdoors during the fall and winter months can be a dangerous activity. With the weather becoming more severe and increasing the possibilities of accidents the proper safety procedures must be strictly followed. The negligence of others can cause these accidents to happen. If you or someone you know works outdoors during the winter months please make sure they are aware of the safety protocols for their activities and they always use caution when working.