Compared to other parts of the country, Texas winters are mild. However, workers who must work outdoors in Texas still benefit from cold safety measures taken by business owners.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has resources for common winter weather hazards to help keep employers and workers safe.
According to the OSHA website, the following are some best practices to prepare for work in winter weather:
- Train workers. Employers must identify potential winter hazards and provide necessary training.
- Prevent cold stress. Train workers on cold stress hazards and prevention and provide engineering controls such as radiant heaters.
- Dress appropriately. The correct clothing is key to protecting workers from cold stress.
• Stay dry- wet clothing chills the body quickly.
• Wear at least three layers of loose-fitting clothing.
• Wear hats, insulated gloves, and insulated, waterproof boots.
- Provide engineering controls or implement safe work practices. Use radiant heaters to warm outdoor workplaces and safely use aerial lifts or ladders to apply de-icing materials to roofs to protect workers from falling.
- Never use portable generators indoors. Safe generator use involves:
• Place generators away from doors, windows or ventilation shafts.
• Inspect generators for damage or loose fuel lines.
• Keep generators dry.
• Maintain and operate generators according to manufacturer instructions.
United Tool and Fastener carries a wide variety of products from hand warmers to high-visibility jackets and gloves to heaters and generators to keep workers warm and safe while working outdoors. To learn more or to buy cold weather products, contact a local UTF showroom in Houston at 713-692-2323; in San Antonio at 210-495-8665; or College Station at 979-731-8665.
