Working outside comes with its own set of risks. If you operate a business that requires employees to work outside, you need to consider their health and safety. This guide will provide nine top tips for protecting your employees who work outside.
Risk assessment
The first step to tick off is to perform a thorough risk assessment. This will determine the potential dangers that your employees may face and the steps that you are going to take to protect them. You can find risk assessment templates online, so you don’t have to create one from scratch.
Training
When your employees face any level of danger in their work environment, it’s crucial to provide thorough training. This includes training to do their job safely and effectively. But it also includes general safety training. It’s vital that your employees understand the risks and know how to protect themselves.
Sunscreen
One of the biggest dangers when working outside is the sun. If your employees are exposed to sunlight for any period of time, they could be at risk of serious skin damage. You should provide plenty of sunscreen and encourage employees to regularly apply it.
Clothing
It’s important to have the right clothing for the job. If you’re working outside in the cold, you need winter work clothing. If you are working in the heat, you need light breathable fabrics. You also need to consider the protective clothing needed. You can find high-end work apparel at Anthem Branding, which can be personalized with your company’s logo.
Hydration
Hydration is one of the most important things to consider when working outside. As an employer, you should provide access to water at all times. Otherwise, your employees could become seriously ill. Also, remember to factor in regular breaks for employees to rehydrate.
Shade
Even if you provide plenty of water and sunscreen, you shouldn’t expect workers to stay out in direct sunlight all day. This will cause fatigue and could lead to health problems. Ensure there is ample shade for your employees. If you are working in an area without shade, you should provide a temporary shelter.
Allergies
Working outside leaves employees open to allergies. From hay fever to dust allergies, it’s important to provide the correct protective equipment and medicine. Keep antihistamines with you at all times and offer dust masks for employees that work in dusty areas.
Keeping food cool
If your employees bring food to work, they need somewhere to keep it cool throughout the day. This might seem like a minor detail but it’s extremely important that your employees get a chance to eat. As a temporary solution, you could provide a large coolbox. This will be far more portable than a refrigerator.
Work rate
If your employees are working in extreme conditions, you can’t expect their work rate to be as high as it would be on a mild day. It’s important to factor this in when you are planning work. Set expectations too high and employees could put themselves at risk trying to keep up.
