Outdoor Hazards for Workers

Outdoor workers are exposed to many types of hazards that depend on their type of work, geographic region, season, and duration of time they are outside. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), workers at highest risk include those working in agriculture, forestry, fishing, construction, mining, transportation, warehousing, utilities, and service sectors. Outdoor workers include farmers, foresters, landscapers, groundskeepers, gardeners, painters, roofers, pavers, construction workers, laborers, mechanics, and any other worker who spends time outside.

Common hazards to workers include physical hazards, including extremes in temperature, noise, and lightning. NIOSH estimates that lightning kills about 80 people in the United States each year and injures hundreds. Among construction workers, laborers, machine operators, engineers, roofers, and pipefitters have been struck by lightning most often on the job. In addition, UV radiation can cause problems such as sunburn and skin cancer.

Another type of risk includes biological hazards, such as venomous wildlife and insects, and poisonous plants. Outdoor workers in the United States may be exposed to many types of venomous wildlife and insects. Venomous snakes, spiders, scorpions, and stinging insects can be found throughout various geographic regions. Allergic reactions and anaphylactic shock are the body’s response to a bite or sting, and may require immediate medical care.

Poisonous plants, such as poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac can cause allergic reactions if the leaves or stalks are damaged and come in contact with workers’ skin. According to NIOSH, these plants can also be dangerous if they are burned and their toxins are inhaled by workers. Workers exposed to pesticides or other chemicals should be aware of the health hazards associated with these products and take appropriate action to reduce associated health risks.

Outdoor workers should be educated about the possible hazards and the possible effects of those hazards that are associated with their jobs. Employers are encouraged to provide appropriate personal protective equipment and implement work standards that will assure the safety and health of their workers.

Lakeside offers education and training for workers. In addition, Lakeside will assist employers in developing safety standards and safe work practices that will support a healthy and safe workplace. Although it is impossible to eliminate all risk associated with outdoor work, prompt attention to exposures and injuries can reduce the severity of situation. Having written policies and procedures for incident and injury reporting is a must. Knowledge is power. Increase your power by learning more about how you can reduce risk and hazards for your workers by contacting Lakeside.

Reference: http://cdc.gov/niosh/topics/outdoor