Chicago Workers' Compensation Attorney Blog

Winter-related work accidents in Chicago and elsewhere are likely if the proper safety precautions are not taken. To help to educate workers and employers of these dangers and preventative measures, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) launched a new web page. The web page targets those who face these types of dangers during winter storm recovery and response operations.

The web page offers information to those involved in working in these conditions to help them to recognize the hazards and how to take the proper steps to stay safe this winter. This work typically involves clearing snow from in front of workplaces, clearing snow from rooftops, dealing with downed power lines and traveling on snowy and icy roadways.

Our Chicago workers compensation attorneys understand that it's also the responsibility of workers and their employers to ensure that they're safe during and after a storm. Some of the dangers that can include carbon monoxide poisoning, hypothermia, dehydration, frostbite, traffic accidents, being hit by falling objects, back injuries, slips and falls, burns, electrocution, exhaustion, falls from roofs, lift or ladders, collapsing roofs and even lacerations and amputations.

The number of injuries that could result from this type of environment is endless. It's important that employers properly train employees and equip them with the proper safety equipment to help minimize the risks for an accident.

Ways to Address Hazards when Dealing with Winter Storm Cleanup:

-Always assume that power lines are energized. You never want to go near a damaged or downed power line.

-Make sure that all of your cleanup equipment is guarded properly. Make sure that it's not plugged in when you perform maintenance or clean it.

-Be careful around elevated surfaces that are covered by a lot of snow or ice.

-When clearing snow, do so in small amounts to avoid over-exerting yourself, which can lead to injuries.

-Make sure that all walkways are clear of snow and ice before starting.

-Make sure that all employees have fall protection.

-If you're stuck, stay inside the vehicle when possible. Never leave a vehicle unless you see help within 100 yards of you.

-Be sure to always wear reflective clothing to make yourself more visible to others.

-Be sure to have the proper body protection, including body face and eye masks.

Make sure that you dress warm, too. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), you can wind up with a number of conditions from overexposure to the cold weather. These conditions include frostbite, trench foot and chilblains. Remember that whenever the temps drop below normal and wind speed increases, heat can leave your body much quicker than normal. These winter-related conditions can cause some serious health problems if you're not prepared.