Many of us think a lot of safety in the workplace. But we usually think of quite a limited number of ways in which that safety needs to be maintained. We think about workers wearing the right protection and using the right equipment. We think about mopping up spillages and leaning out WET FLOOR signs. But how often do we think about the impact of the weather on workplace safety?
We usually think of the workplace as something that’s isolated from severe weather. Come rain or snow, the workers have gotta work, right? Well, the weather has more of an impact on employee safety than you may think.
Snow and icy roads
We may have thought snow was this amazing thing back when we were very young. But once you’re an adult you realize that snow is actually really inconvenient. More than inconvenient, actually: dangerous. I very much doubt you’re going to have snow and icy roads in your workplace. But it’s still something an employer needs to consider. Let’s say an employee calls and says they’re stuck at home because of the snow and ice surrounding their home. If you compel them to get to work with a job threat, and they get injured en route as a result of that snow and ice they told you about? You could find yourself liable.
Other risks of cold weather
Cold weather doesn’t actually cause common illnesses like a cold. This is probably one of the most widespread myths in existence! People are more likely to get ill during cold weather because they’re more likely to stay indoors. The ventilation in most indoor places isn’t that great, so people end up getting ill. And when indoors, people are in closer proximity to one another, so illnesses get passed around quite easily. That’s why you need to make sure your workplace is as hygienic as possible; when it’s cold outside, people are going to spend all day in there if they can!
Intense heat
If employees get too hot, then they’re going to feel sick and uncomfortable. It’s much easier to distract yourself from cold weather than it is hot weather. When the sun is blazing, you’ll need some decent air conditioning. However, you need to make sure your air conditioner is clean before you have it blasting air at your employees. Incorrect maintenance can spread illness! Of course, heat won’t just affect safety in an office. Think about construction sites. The scaffolding of a site may be affected by such harsh weather. Remember: worksite safety is non-negotiable!
Thunderstorms
A lot of us know what we would do if a thunderstorm (or, for that matter, an earthquake) struck us at home. We have some kind of plan, even if it’s just a haphazard one. (Having said that, I don’t think enough people even have that!) But the procedures are a lot less clear in the workplace. There’s less likely to be a “safe” area. There are also way more people in a workplace than in a home to think about! This is why you should start thinking about safety measures in your office in case a thunderstorm strikes.
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