If you’re working in poor weather, there is a risk that you could suffer an injury. One of the things you need to watch out for is wind.
Wind might not seem like it’s particularly dangerous, but it definitely can cause some problems for workers. It can cause ladders to tip over, items to fall from scaffolding and even knock someone off balance.
If that happens when you’re working, the fact is that you could be badly hurt. Fortunately, there are some good tips you can follow to stay safer when the wind kicks up.
1. If it’s windy outside, don’t be afraid to put down your tools
The first thing you should know is that wind hazards can make it too dangerous to continue working. If the wind is making your ladder unstable, blowing away tools or making you feel unbalanced, it may be time to take a break and wait out the windstorm.
2. Use the right protective equipment
Another important tip is to use the right protective equipment. That means using tethers if you’re going to be on a roof or up high, so items that are blown away don’t fall to the ground below. You should also tether yourself to prevent a dangerous fall.
3. Check the weather
Finally, check the weather. If gusts are expected before a thunderstorm, then winds that pick up could be a sign of poor weather to come. If that’s the case, wind could be a good sign that it’s time to stop working for the day.
These are three things you can remember to keep you safer if you are working in windy conditions. When weather hazards are a problem, you need to know how to stay safe and avoid workplace accidents.
