Slips, trips, and falls are common in winter, particularly for light industrial workers. Snow, ice, and other winter weather conditions can make it tough to complete everyday work tasks outdoors. Yet, light industrial workers who prioritize safety are well-equipped to identify and address workplace dangers in winter before they lead to on-the-job accidents and injuries.

There are several things that light industrial workers can do to mitigate hidden dangers in the workplace this winter, such as:

1. Remove Clutter from Work Areas

A clean, tidy work area can make a world of difference, particularly in winter. If workers can go from point A to point B without having to worry about any potential roadblocks along the way, they can complete their everyday tasks quickly and efficiently.

Generally, it helps to develop and maintain an organization system in a light industrial work environment. This system is valuable year-round, and it minimizes the risk that clutter can become a problem in a workplace.

2. Eliminate Winter Hazards Immediately

Err on the side of caution as you combat winter hazards. In fact, if you are proactive in your efforts to eliminate winter hazards, you can address these issues before they get out of hand.

For instance, it can be beneficial to apply rock salt near any building entrances before a winter storm. This ensures that the salt can prevent ice can forming — and reduces the risk that light industrial professionals could slip on ice.

Watch for wet floors during winter, too. Light industrial employees may track water from their boots on the floors of a work facility, and this water should be cleaned up right away. Because, if water remains on the floor, it could cause a worker to slip and fall and lead to a workplace accident.

3. Know the Signs of Hypothermia and Frostbite

Winter brings cold temperatures, and light industrial workers must bundle up accordingly. Otherwise, these workers may be susceptible to hypothermia and frostbite if they are exposed to cold temperatures for an extended period of time.

Hypothermia can occur if a person’s body temperature drops below a normal level. At this point, an individual may start to shake or quiver, lose their coordination, and become drowsy or confused.

Comparatively, frostbite can occur if a person’s skin and underlying tissue is damaged by cold temperatures. Signs of frostbite include blisters, swelling, and joint or muscle stiffness.

If you or a coworker displays any signs of hypothermia or frostbite, seek medical attention. This ensures that a doctor can diagnose and treat the issue and ensure it won’t cause permanent damage.

Stay Safe at Work This Winter

The aforementioned tips can help you protect yourself and others against winter work dangers. Meanwhile, at HCR, we partner with light industrial companies in the Greater Toronto Area and Southwestern Ontario that put the health and wellbeing of their staff first. In doing so, we can help you land a light industrial role at a great company. To learn more, please contact us today.