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Extremely cold weather can be dangerous for outdoor workers and those who work in an area that is poorly insulated or without a heat source. Two dangerous health risks associated with cold weather are hypothermia and frostbite.
As summer approaches, so do the dangers of working outside during hot weather. Knowing how to work safely in hot weather can help prevent heat stress injuries and heat stroke, the most serious heat-related disorder, according to NIOSH.
As winter approaches, one thing outdoor workers should know about is the “cold stress equation.” According to OSHA, low temperatures plus wind speed and wetness equals injuries and illnesses.
Chemicals used to manage insects, rodents, weeds, molds and germs all have the potential to cause harm to workers. Pesticides come in different forms, including sprays, liquids, powders, granulates, baits and foggers.
Working outside in the winter exposes employees to a number of hazards, including the risk of weather-related conditions such as frostbite. Cold weather can affect the body's senses, altering the ability to see, smell and feel, according to the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries.
Those working outdoors in the summer – or working indoors in hot environments such as bakeries, laundries and manufacturing plants – can be at risk of a number of heat-induced disorders.
Working outside in the spring months may mean working alongside insects and animals that could pose a threat to workers. OSHA offers the following tips for avoiding such injuries when working outdoors.
The potential hazards present on a worksite can be exacerbated during inclement conditions such as rain. Working in the rain can cause slippery surfaces and limited visibility.
