Help Municipal Workers Protect Themselves Against Winter’s Fury

January 29, 2018

Municipal workers are often the first line of defense when winter storms hit. They jump into action to clear roadways and sidewalks of snow and ice, remove downed trees and assist those who may be trapped or stranded in vehicles. As they do their work, they may face other hazards – slippery roads and surfaces, strong winds and bitterly cold temperatures.

To help workers prepare against and reduce potential injuries, illnesses or fatalities during winter storms, the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) have collaborated on a website that provides information about winter weather hazards.

Topics covered on the site include:

• Cold stress, including frostbite, hypothermia and trench foot
• Preparedness, including how to dress properly and adopt safe work practices
• Hazards and precautions, such as
  • Winter driving
  • Work zone traffic safety
  • Being stranded in a vehicle
  • Shoveling snow
  • Using power equipment, like snow blowers
  • Clearing snow from roofs and other elevations
  • Slips on snow and ice
  • Repairing and/or working near downed or damaged power lines
  • Removing downed trees

Plus, there are links to OSHA resources and additional resources related to this topic.

Remember that United Heartland’s WalkSafe campaign also provides our customers a wealth of resources and tools to help their employees avoid slips and falls on snow and ice, including videos, a PowerPoint presentation and more. And if you haven’t already, please subscribe to our Risk Connection e-blasts, which provide important information related to WalkSafe topics and other useful safety tips.