Caring for employee wellbeing is a top priority for businesses across the globe. In addition to strict rules and regulations in many industries, there is also the common understanding that employees go to their job each day (whatever it is they do for work) and can feel safe and protected. OSHA enforces rules to see that this happens but you shouldn’t wait until it’s too late to plan for potential accidents or issues.

For those with workforces that must do their jobs outdoors, the risks and rules change a bit. As seasonal shifts and the elements create unpredictable environments to the workday, it can be hard to create a set of rules that apply at all times.

Here are some tips for keeping employees safe this winter.

Understand the Dangers & Warning Signs

The colder temperatures become more and more dangerous it drops and the longer workers must be outdoors. It’s important to understand all of the dangers involved with braving the cold temps as well as spot the warning signs that a problem is occurring. Hypothermia, for example, which occurs when the bodies temperature drops severely low or frostbite which can lead to limb loss are all very serious results of long outdoor exposure to the cold. Proper training is critical.

Enforce Rules and Safety Equipment Use
Wearing gloves and other protective gear is critical and one of the only defenses while braving the cold temps. Be sure to provide proper equipment and gear to workers and that they are using them accordingly. Other precautions such as being mindful for black ice and the potential for slips and falls is important.

Have First Aid Kits on Hand

Regardless of the type of work being done outdoors, if it’s winter and there’s potential for a hazard, you need a first aid kit that’s stocked with all the essentials on hand. From wound care to bandages, pain relief medicine and burn care, there are so many different tools to assist when an accident occurs, you can’t afford to remain unprotected.

Shop 1stAidSupplies.com for everything you need to ensure emergencies, slips falls and bigger issues are addressed promptly and efficiently.