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Spring is around the corner, and agricultural workers are getting ready for a new season of working long days in the field. Agricultural workers maintain crops and take care of livestock and usually perform their duties outdoors in various weather conditions. There are numerous health hazards that should be considered before starting work. Workers’ safety protection begins with engineering controls, which include measures that prevent employees’ exposure to work-related hazards. In addition, …

The coldest time of the year is upon us. 2018 started with a massive winter storm on the East Coast followed by brutally cold conditions. Wind chill warnings were issued in most of the East Coast states. Wind chill is based on the rate of heat loss from the exposed skin caused by wind and cold. As wind increases, it draws heat from the body and drives down internal body temperature. For example, at -19 degrees Fahrenheit, exposed skin can freeze in 30 minutes. A massive winter storm …

By Samantha Hoch, Marketing, Haws Corp. During cold seasons, it is important that outdoor drinking fountains and bottle fillers are equipped for the potentially harsh winter weather. Many drinking fountains and bottle fillers are designed to withstand extreme climate conditions from an external durability standpoint, yet it is pertinent to ensure internal waterways do not freeze and create damage. If you have an outdoor drinking fountain and/or bottle filler that has a bury valve …

Know the Risks Exposure to extremely low temperatures for an extended period of time may cause serious health problems and complications if protective measures have not been taken care of before starting work on a project in severe weather conditions. The most common symptoms of being affected by cold include memory loss, uncontrolled shivering, slurred speech, clumsy movements, numbness, white or grayish skin color in the open body areas, which can be a result of the frostbite or hypothermi …

By Matt Murdock, COO at Wind River Investments and Alert Plus, LLC Across the northern regions the leaves have changed color and fallen from the trees, the sound of chainsaws fills the forests as people gather firewood for the coming winter, and homeowners have begun winterizing their houses as temperatures drop. Mean winter temperatures in much of North America will go well below 0F this year, but what can be done for the average natural gas employee whose sole source of gas detecti …

We recently learned about a nationwide program instituted by the U.S. Department of Energy that promotes the use of clean and sustainable energy through weatherization funding. It’s the Weatherization Assistance Program. This came to our attention when a couple of new customers approached us from community action groups that specifically carry out weatherization services. These customers purchased gas detectors for their organizations so we looked into it a bit to find out more and how they a …

It is cold in most parts of the U.S. Some areas of the country are more susceptible to severe cold weather than others. Also, some types of outdoor jobs require extra effort to stay warm. These areas include wilderness, parks and forest services, conservation and environmental industry, construction, petroleum and chemical industry, meatpacking, fishing and fish processing, and farming. Are you working long hours outside? We recommend wearing gloves, hats, and jackets specifically de …

Have you ever felt like you are lost in a jungle of raingear not sure what to choose? Understanding the difference between waterproof and water-resistant work wear will allow you navigate easier and solve your next rain gear challenge like a pro. 2 Types of Weather Protection Gear Although many jackets offer some level of water protection, if you have to work outside in the rain for an extended period of time, water-resistant or waterproof clothing will be a perfect solution depending …

Folks experienced in working under harsh conditions are usually great at keeping themselves warm. Nevertheless, it is a good idea to review some cold weather protection basics with your workers before the temperature hits extremes. Now is a good time to hold a safety meeting and explain the importance of hypothermia prevention. In general, the objective should be learning or refreshing the knowledge of best practices on how to conserve body heat and avoid bare skin exposure when working in co …

By Samantha Hoch, Marketing Specialist, Haws EMERGENCY RESPONSE BEST PRACTICES :: PROTECTION AGAINST HYPOTHERMIA Low ambient temperature and wind chill may simply be part of the job in cold climates, but they can have a lethal effect on exposed skin – particularly when combined with hazardous conditions where safety showers are required. This problematic combination creates a scenario for an ineffective and injurious emergency shower response. In some cases, inappropriate safety equipment …