Many articles provide helpful tips for those who clean their driveways of ice and snow. The dangers that could be posed to the homeowner are carefully noted. They rarely discuss the dangers that snow removal workers face. This article will provide some information about the dangers associated with this job as well as ways to reduce or avoid them.
Potential Hazards
Public works employees and commercial snow removal contractors are not guaranteed a safe job. They work in harsh conditions. They are exposed to cold temperatures and often work in places others would prefer. They face various hazards every day. Here are five of the most common:
1. Snow removal equipment: Employees are responsible for operating powered equipment, such as a large snow plow, skid steer equipped with a plow attachment or snowblower. Make sure that electric devices are grounded. Do not attempt to refuel gas-powered devices while they are still running. This is especially true for snowblowers. This piece of equipment could cause severe injuries, such as arm amputation.
Plows should be in top working order. Never try to stop any running components.
2. Winter drivers: Some truck and car drivers don’t realize how their actions could affect the safety of others and the safety of snowplow drivers. They follow and then attempt to pass.
3. Speed: Some snowplow drivers drive too fast when they are in a rush to complete a task. This can lead to accidents and increase the chance of serious injuries.
4. The Weather: A snowplow operator can be in danger of having an accident if there is poor visibility or snow/ice combination.
5. Slippery/icy roads and sidewalks: Although heavy equipment such as industrial snowplows might have the weight to push through icy surfaces, smaller snowplow vehicles may not. UTVs and ATVs are more vulnerable. They can slip out of control and injure the operator or cause damage to the equipment.
Prevention of Injuries and Other Winter Safety and Health Threats
The best defence is an excellent offense for snowplow workers and other snow removal workers. These suggestions can help reduce the chance of an accident on the job.
Maintain equipment: Prevention is the best way for vehicle safety. This helps reduce the likelihood of equipment failures from neglect or abuse and also alerts you to potential problems before they occur. These measures help prevent equipment malfunctions from causing accidents.
Check All Equipment Before Operating: Operators need to inspect their equipment before they go out on a job. Check that they are working and that the fuel levels are adequate. Also, ensure that it is the right equipment for the job.
* Wear the appropriate clothing and shoes for the job. Layer your clothes if you’re working outdoors or in cold conditions. You should be able to reach your jacket, gloves and hat if you’re sitting in a taxi. Keep extras handy. Make sure you are visible to everyone around you if necessary.
Avoid fatigue. Tired workers are more likely to make mistakes. Get enough sleep for snowplow operators as well as those who use power tools. You can stop if exhaustion sets in. If you are driving a snowplow, stay put for a while. Fatigue and poor driving conditions can lead to accidents.
Snow Removal Risks and Injuries Can Be Avoided
Snow removal workers can avoid work-related injuries or problems. It doesn’t matter if they are driving a snowplow for large public works or if they are operating a commercial snowblower; or if they work for an Edenapp third-party service or a municipality, it is important to treat each job as a normal job. It is important to identify and assess any hazards and/or risks before you begin. Then, it is possible to take steps to reduce or eliminate these risks.