A major winter storm may be lucrative for companies that provide snow and ice management services or that remove downed trees or other hazards from their clients’ properties. But those and other winter-weather conditions can be hazardous and dangerous if contractors and their crews don’t approach the situations with caution and cold-weather education.
According to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) The Occupational Safety & Health Act (OSH Act) “requires employers to comply with hazard-specific safety and health standards. In addition, pursuant to section 5(a)(1) of the OSH Act, employers must provide their employees with a workplace free from recognized hazards likely to cause death or serious physical harm.”
To mitigate the problems winter workers may run into, especially in the conditions of a winter storm, OSHA’s Web site frequently posts Emergency Preparedness Guides with valuable information on handling hazardous conditions. OSHA notes that “Emergency Preparedness Guides do not and cannot enlarge or diminish an employer’s obligations under the OSH Act,” the information in them is useful. The guides are based on presently available information and may be modified when additional, relevant information becomes available or when OSH Act standards are promulgated or modified. Be sure to visit the OSHA Web site frequently to keep track of updated guides. In the mean time, here are some facts and figures provided by the organization that contractors may find helpful as winter firmly sets in around the country.
TYPES OF WINTER STORMS. Effectively operating and routing crews during a snow event first requires knowledge of how winter storms are classified. Depending on the severity of a storm, snow removal contractors may choose to stagger when crews begin their routes, or hold off on sending crews into the elements altogether. Use these definitions to create snow response strategies for your company and take note of the sidebar at right to see which types of storms are most common in your area of the country:
| WHERE ARE DIFFERENT WINTER STORMS MOST COMMON? |
Mid Atlantic and New England States: Heavy snow showers, blizzards, and ice storms. Southeastern and Gulf Coast States: Ice storms, occasional snow. Midwest and Plains States: Heavy snow showers, blizzards, and ice storms. Rocky Mountain States: Heavy snow showers, blizzards. Alaska: Heavy snow showers, blizzards. |
Blizzards: Winds of 35 mph or more with snow and blowing snow, reducing visibility to less than ¼ mile for at least 3 hours.
Blowing Snow: Wind-driven snow that reduces visibility. Blowing snow may be falling snow and/or snow on the ground picked up by the wind.
Snow Squalls: Brief, intense snow showers accompanied by strong, gusty winds. Accumulation may be significant.
Snow Showers: Snow falling at varying intensities for brief periods of time. Some accumulation is possible.
Snow Flurries: Light snow falling for short durations with little or no accumulation.
Ice Storms: May include freezing rain or sleet.
In addition to the types of storms crews may run into, contractors and their clients should be aware of the different public warnings for winter weather that are generated by the National Weather Service. Keep on top of these warnings as their change during a storm, so crews can adjust their responses accordingly. Additionally, pay attention to local “snow emergency” announcements that may restrict who can be out on the roads at a given time in certain areas. These are issued locally by counties and area news organizations are adivsed of emergency conditions as they are declared.
| LOCAL SNOW EMERGENCY CLASSIFICATIONS |
LEVEL 1: Roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Roads are also icy. Drive very cautiously. LEVEL 2: Roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Only those who feel it is necessary to drive should be out on the roads. Contact your employer to see if you should report to work. LEVEL 3: All roadways are closed to non-emergency personnel. No one should be out during these conditions unless it is absolutely necessary to travel. All employees should contact their employer to see if they should report to work. Those traveling on the roads may subject themselves to arrest. Source: www.marionohio.com |
Winter storm watch: Be alert, a storm is likely.
Winter weather advisory: Winter weather conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous, especially to motorists.
Frost/freeze warning: Below freezing temperatures are expected and may cause damage to plants, crops, or fruit trees.
Winter storm warning: Take action, the storm is in or entering the area.
Blizzard warning: Snow and strong winds combined will produce blinding snow, near zero visibility, deep drifts, and life-threatening wind chill--seek refuge immediately.
WORKER SAFETY & HEALTH. While most workers can stay inside during a winter storm, workers in many areas of the green industry may be required to go into the storm to do their jobs. These may include snow removal contractors and tree care and removal technicians, as well as related fields, such as utility workers, law enforcement personnel, firefighters, emergency medical personnel, federal, state and local government personnel, military personnel, highway personnel, and sanitation workers.
| WHAT IS WIND CHILL? |
Wind chill is an estimation of how cold it feels outside when the effects of temperature and wind speed are combined. Unprotected portions of the body, such as the face or hands, can chill rapidly and should be protected as much as possible from the cold wind. A 10 mile per hour wind combined with a 30 degrees Fahrenheit temperature can have the same chilling effect on the body as a temperature of 21 degrees Fahrenheit in a calm atmosphere. The Weather Service issues this information as the wind chill index. For more information, see OSHA's Cold Stress Card. |
In cases where green industry professionals work closely with other service providers such as municipalities, or are called on by emergency personnel to assist in a snow emergency, contractors should consider passing on these tips from OSHA to ensure everyone’s safety on the roads and during exposure to the cold in general.
According to National Weather Service about 70 percent of injuries during winter storms result from vehicle accidents, and about 25 percent of injuries result from being caught out in the storm.
Some of the hazards associated with working in winter storms include:
- Driving accidents due to slippery roadways
- Carbon monoxide poisoning
- Slips and falls due to slippery walkways
- Hypothermia and frostbite due to the cold weather exposure
- Being struck by falling objects such as icicles, tree limbs, and utility poles
- Electrocution due to downed power lines or downed objects in contact with power lines
- Falls from heights (e.g. falls from roof or skylights while removing snow)
- Roof collapse under weight of snow (or melting snow if drains are clogged)
- Burns from fires caused by energized line contact or equipment failure
- Exhaustion from working extended shifts
- Dehydration
- Back injuries or heart attack while removing snow
Of the hazards associated with winter weather, hypothermia and frostbite can be slow to arise and some workers may feel that they can work through the cold and “tough it out.” While employers should do their best to keep crewmembers from being put in situations where frostbite or hypothermia may occur, all employees should be aware of the following symptoms of both conditions so they may recognize it in themselves and their coworkers so they can be treated quickly.
| HOW TO AVOID HYPOTHERMIA AND FROSTBITE |
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FROSTBITE: Frostbite is a severe reaction to cold exposure that causes freezing in the deep layers of skin and tissue. Frostbite can cause permanent damage. It is recognizable by a loss of feeling and a waxy-white or pale appearance in fingers, toes, nose, or ear lobes. For more information, see OSHA's Cold Stress Card available in PDF format.
HYPOTHERMIA: Hypothermia occurs when the body temperature drops to less than 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Symptoms of hypothermia include uncontrollable shivering, slow speech, memory lapses, frequent stumbling, drowsiness, and exhaustion. For more information, see OSHA's Cold Stress Card available in PDF format.
TREATING HYPOTHERMIA & FROSTBITE. If frostbite or hypothermia is suspected, begin warming the person slowly and seek immediate medical assistance. Warm the person's trunk first. Use your own body heat to help. Arms and legs should be warmed last because stimulation of the limbs can drive cold blood toward the heart and lead to heart failure.
Put the person in dry clothing and wrap their entire body in a blanket. Never give a frostbite or hypothermia victim something with caffeine in it (like coffee or tea) or alcohol. Caffeine, a stimulant, can cause the heart to beat faster and hasten the effects the cold has on the body. Alcohol, a depressant, can slow the heart and also hasten the ill effects of cold body temperatures.
WATCH YOUR STEP. Walking on snow or ice is especially treacherous and wearing proper footwear in wintery conditions is essential. Use these tips from OSHA to keep your balance during a snow event:
- A pair of well-insulated boots with good rubber treads is a must for walking during or after a winter storm. Keeping a pair of rubber over-shoes that fit over your street shoes and have good treads also is a good idea during the winter months.
- When walking on an icy or snow-covered walkway, take short steps and walk at a slower pace so you can react quickly to a change in traction.
- If a sidewalk has not been cleared of snow and ice and you must walk in the street, walk against the traffic and as close to the curb as possible.
- Be on the lookout for vehicles that may have lost traction and are slipping towards you.
- Be aware that approaching vehicles may not be able to stop at crosswalks or traffic signals.
- At night, wear bright clothing or reflective gear, as dark clothing will make it difficult for motorists to see you.
- During the daytime, wear sunglasses to help you see better and avoid hazards.
| TREE REMOVAL SAFETY |
Clearing downed trees is a critical job during a winter storm. When winter storms occur, downed trees can block public roads and damage power lines. Emergency crews are often sent out to clear downed trees during a winter storm. However, if your crews are dispatched for this type of work, remember these potential hazards: Electrocution by contacting downed energized lines or contacting broken tree limbs in contact with fallen lines. Proper PPE including gloves, chaps, foot protection, eye protection, fall protection, hearing protection and head protection should be worn at all times by workers using chainsaws and chippers to clear downed trees. Only appropriate power equipment that is built to be used outdoors and in wet conditions should be used. All saws, chippers, and other tools should be used properly and according to their intended application. It is important that all equipment is well-maintained and functioning correctly in order for use. In addition, all equipment should have proper guarding, working controls, and other safety features as installed by the manufacturer. |
DRIVER SAFETY. Snow plow drivers should take special care of their plows and plow trucks during a winter storm, though safe driving techniques are essential for all individuals who must be on the road during a storm, including contractors and crewmembers that need to get to work. Before setting off down the road, go over this safety checklist from OSHA:
Inspect the vehicle to ensure the following systems are operating properly:
- Brakes: Brakes should provide even and balanced braking. Also check that brake fluid is at the proper level.
- Cooling System: Ensure a proper mixture of 50/50 antifreeze and water in the cooling system at the proper level.
- Electrical System: Check that battery is fully charged and that connections are clean. Check that the alternator belt is in good condition with proper tension.
- Engine: Inspect all engine systems.
- Exhaust System: Check exhaust for leaks and that all clamps and hangers are snug.
- Tires: Check for proper tread depth and no signs of damage or uneven wear. Check for proper tire inflation.
- Oil: Check that oil is at proper level.
- Visibility Systems: Inspect all exterior lights, defrosters (windshield and rear window), and wipers. Install winter windshield wipers.
Also, carry an emergency kit in the vehicle with the following items:
- Blankets/sleeping bags
- Cellular telephone or two-way radio
- Windshield scraper
- Snow brush
- Flashlight with fresh/extra batteries
- Extra winter clothes
- Shovel
- Tow chain
- Matches
- Traction aids (bag of sand or cat litter)
- Emergency flares
- Jumper cables
- Snacks
- Water
- Road maps
Though cell phones and two-way radios are standard for most green industry companies, OSHA also offers a few tips for drivers who become stranded in their vehicles. Again, these tips are helpful for individuals who may be on their way to or from the contractor’s home base and get stuck on the roads.
- Stay in the vehicle. Do not leave the vehicle to search for assistance unless help is visible within 100 yards. You may become disoriented and lost in blowing and drifting snow.
- Display a trouble sign by hanging a brightly colored cloth on the radio antenna and raising the hood.
- Turn on the vehicle's engine for about 10 minutes each hour and run the heat to keep warm. Also, turn on the vehicle's dome light when the vehicle is running as an additional signal.
- Beware of carbon monoxide poisoning. Keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow, and open a downwind window slightly for ventilation.
- Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia. Do minor exercises to keep up circulation. Clap hands and move arms and legs occasionally. Try not to stay in one position for too long.
- If more than one person is in the vehicle, take turns sleeping. For warmth, huddle together. Use newspapers, maps, and even the removable car mats for added insulation.
- Avoid overexertion since cold weather puts an added strain on the heart. Unaccustomed exercise such as shoveling snow or pushing a vehicle can bring on a heart attack or make other medical conditions worse.
- Be aware of symptoms of dehydration.
In addition to this range of winter safety tips, OSHA directs anyone who deals with winter work to the references at right, as well. Also, Lawn & Landscape invites you to share your winter-weather practices with colleagues on the Lawn & Landscape message board. If you have a unique winter tip or business practice that you’d like to share, email it to Lauren Spiers at lspiers@gie.net for use on Lawn & Landscape Online!
| WINTER SAFETY REFERENCES |
Factsheet: Winter Storms Federal Emergency Management Agency Cold Stress Card. OSHA Publication 3156 (1999), 21 KB, 4 pages, PDF. |