According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), about 60 employees die each year from weather-related causes. Severe weather can cause electrocution, drowning, injuries from falling objects, and more. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Standard 1910.38 requires employers to have a safety plan to protect their workers. These tips can help:
1 Create a written Emergency Action Plan.
Consider all potential emergencies before preparing an Emergency Action Plan. While hazardous weather can hit anywhere in Texas, take extra safeguards in regions where tornadoes, hurricanes, and flooding are common. Other regions may need to focus more on how to manage ice and snow. Although wildfires are not weather events, they are directly weather-related and may require special planning in some locations.
2 Choose a shelter-in-place location.
Ensure employees and visitors know where to go in severe weather. Select a safe space in an interior room without glass doors or windows.
3 Install an emergency alarm system.
OSHA requires all businesses to install audible emergency systems. Some facilities may also need a visible alarm to alert employees. Select an employee on each shift to turn on the alarm system if it is not automated.
4 Stock up on emergency supplies.
Proper emergency supplies can keep employees safe if they are stranded at work. TexasReady.gov can help keep employers prepared and informed. Some supplies to keep on hand include:- First aid kits.
- Tools to shut off utilities.
- Flashlights and batteries.
- Emergency weather radio(s).
- Solar-powered phone chargers.
- Water and food for at least three days for each employee.
- Personal hygiene items.
- Masks, sheeting, and duct tape.
5 Provide proper personal protective equipment (PPE).
Sharp objects, tripping hazards, and downed power lines can cause dangers to employees both during and after a storm. Ensure workers have the PPE and the training they need to stay safe.
Preparing for severe weather saves lives. For help creating an Emergency Action Plan or to get training on safe clean-up after a storm, contact the workplace safety training specialists at the Texas Department of Insurance, Division of Workers’ Compensation at 1-800-252-7031, option 2 or SafetyTraining@TDI.Texas.gov.