Although about 90 percent of people struck by lightning survive, these strikes can cause serious and permanent disabilities. And, even if employees aren’t hurt by lightning, they may be at risk from any fires, explosions or other hazards that result from a strike. Together, these facts outline the importance of protecting employees who work outdoors from lightning hazards.
There are a number of ways to do this, including taking steps to reduce lightning hazards, creating an emergency action plan and training your workforce.
All of your managers, supervisors and outdoor workers should collaborate on your plan to ensure it accounts for your business’s unique operations. Consider these tips when you’re drafting your plan:
Train all employees on lightning safety, including early warning systems for severe weather and the best locations to take shelter when working outdoors.
Post information on lightning safety around all of your outdoor work areas. These postings should indicate the location of safe shelters, when to stop and resume work after hearing thunder, and any other guidance that applies to your business or work sites.
Make sure employees check weather reports before working outside. Employees should also check the weather at each work site they’ll be visiting each day, as weather patterns can vary widely—even over short distances.
Require employees and supervisors to monitor weather reports regularly once they’re at an outdoor work site. Have employees stop work and seek shelter immediately if they hear any thunder.
For more resources to help keep your outdoor workers safe, contact Ollis/Akers/Arney Insurance & Business Advisors today.
