An update to our annual blog post devoted to spring safety tips for outdoor work.
The first day of spring in 2022 occurs on Sunday, March 20. It is welcome news for employees in Michigan who have endured snow and ice for the last several months. Warmer temperatures are on the horizon, and it is time to get back to work outdoors. Here are a few spring safety tips for outdoor work. Please remember that many workplace accidents can be avoided with basic knowledge and planning.
Pro Tip: Dress for success
It is not uncommon to see temperature swings in Michigan ranging from below freezing to nearly 70 degrees. Dressing for the weather is a key to workplace safety. Keep an eye on weather reports for the next several days and plan your wardrobe appropriately.
Pro Tip: Drink plenty of fluids
Dehydration can lead to a serious medical emergency. Some people do not even recognize a problem exists until they start feeling sick. Symptoms include headache, dizziness, and feeling tired. Employees should have access to clean drinking water and be allowed to take regular breaks. We recommend bringing your own water bottle if allowed.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget your safety equipment
You can’t have a list of spring safety tips for outdoor work without mentioning safety equipment. Operating machines such as lawn mowers, trimmers, and blowers create unique safety hazards. Protect eyes from flying debris with safety glasses. Wearing hearing protection can avoid damage from loud noises. Proper gloves, footwear, and respirators can also make a big difference on safety. Do not forget to use sunscreen and bug repellant.
Pro Tip: Know how to do the job safely
Spring safety tips for outdoor work always start with understanding how to do the job safely. This includes knowing how to use power tools, proper lifting techniques, and safe ladder use. Ask for help when needed.
Pro Tip: Get basic training in first aid
Spring safety tips for outdoor work also include knowing the signs and symptoms of a heart attack or other medical emergency. Many employers will even pay to have an employee trained in first aid. Never take a chance and always get medical help when needed.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the weather
Spring safety tips for outdoor work also include preparing for severe weather. Michigan can get powerful thunderstorms and even tornados during the warmer spring months. Get clear guidelines for when to stop working and seek shelter. Regular drills can also keep employees prepared for dangerous storms. Download a weather app for your smartphone and keep an eye on the sky.
Pro Tip: Understand legal rights
One of the most important spring safety tips for outdoor work is for you to understand your legal rights after being injured in a workplace accident. Employees who are hurt on-the-job in Michigan are entitled to workers’ comp benefits regardless of fault. This includes medical treatment without any copayments or deductibles being owed. It also pays lost wages to employees who are unable to work. Employers are not permitted to retaliate or discriminate against an employee who asserts his or her legal rights under workers’ comp.
Injured while on the job in Michigan? Contact our workers’ comp lawyers for a free consultation
To speak with an experienced attorney about your Michigan workers’ comp claim, call us now, or fill out our contact form for a free consultation. There is absolutely no cost or obligation. We’re here for you.
Our attorneys have been exclusively helping injured workers in Michigan for more than 35 years and can help you better understand Michigan workers’ comp laws and explain what happens if you or a loved one has been hurt on the job. To see what our own clients have to say about the caring, compassion, and communication they received from us, you can read in their own words about their experience here on our testimonials page from clients we have helped.
Michigan Workers Comp Lawyers never charges a fee to evaluate a potential case. Our law firm has represented injured and disabled workers exclusively for more than 35 years. Call (844) 316-8033 for a free consultation today.
Related information:
Michigan Workers’ Comp Documents You Need To Know About
