TAILGATE SAFETY TOPIC

The Humboldt Builders’ Exchange Safety and Insurance Committee provide the following safety topic as a service to its members. These instructions do not supersede local, state or federal regulations.

WEATHERING WIND HAZARDS

Many construction workers have died due to wind-related accidents and injuries. A ladder that seems secure under normal circumstances can become unstable during windy conditions and cause you to fall. Scaffolding that is improperly secured can rip free during strong winds and kill bystanders. The risk of injury for construction workers increases during strong winds. Keep in mind that changing weather conditions can affect your daily work tasks, and make sure you have a game plan to prevent proper damage and personal injury.

Stay Informed: With today’s modern technology available at the touch of a button, you should keep up to date with the latest local weather reports. Visit weatherbug.com or weather.gov to stay informed in case of wind warnings, watches and advisories. Larger projects may have their own weather station on site to provide instant weather data. Your employer should conduct a daily hazard assessment to determine if working conditions have changed or will change throughout the day. Your employer may alert you to changing weather conditions and how they may affect the work you perform. Some companies call for some kinds of work to stop if the wind exceeds a certain speed.

Be Prepared: When you know the weather will be windy, secure loose building materials, scaffolding and fencing that could be picked up or torn loose by strong winds and thrown onto surrounding streets, structures, vehicles, or bystanders.

Know the Limits of Your Equipment: When operating any equipment, take time to read the operator’s manual and become familiar with the wind specifications. Many crane manufacturers have high-wind guidelines to prevent you from operating a crane in unsafe weather. You should also check safety equipment such as fall protection to determine if it is adequate for windy conditions.

Work Safely: If you will be working on a windy day, you should be alert and protected. Wear eye protection to prevent dust and other particles from entering or striking your eyes. Keep your hard hat on at all times to prevent injuries from falling or flying objects. The likelihood of falls from heights is greatly increased by strong winds. Wear the necessary PPE to ensure your safety.

Stay Away from Power Lines: High winds can cause tree limbs to fall on power lines resulting in electrocution hazards or loss of power. Your best bet is to keep your distance.

SAFETY REMINDER: Don’t forget about wind chill. In cold weather, wind can mean that frostbite and hypothermia set in much more quickly.

The above evaluations and/or recommendations are for general guidance only and should not be relied upon for legal compliance purposes. They are based solely on the information provided to us and relate only to those conditions specifically discussed. We do not make any warranty, expressed or implied, that your workplace is safe or healthful or that it complies with all laws, regulations or standards.

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