Bad weather can be more than a minor inconvenience when it comes to on-the-job safety. Rain, snow, and extreme heat or cold can turn an ordinary task into a potential hazard. By understanding these risks and adopting safety measures, employers can help staff avoid accidents in the workplace.
Types of Weather That Contribute to Workplace Injuries
Different weather conditions can create various hazards, making even simple tasks risky. Below are common weather scenarios that can result in workplace accidents.
Extreme Heat
High temperatures may lead to heatstroke, severe dehydration, or exhaustion. Jobs that involve working outdoors, such as construction and delivery, are particularly vulnerable. Warehouse employees can also be affected if ventilation is poor or fans are limited. Staying hydrated and taking regular breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas can help reduce heat-related risks.
Extreme Cold
When the temperature drops, frostbite and hypothermia become real dangers. Ice and snow can make surfaces slick, leading to slips and falls. Outdoor workers, delivery drivers, and those in cold warehouse environments are especially at risk. Dressing in layers and using shoes with strong traction can help prevent injury.
Rain and Storms
Wet conditions often lead to slippery floors and walkways, making them a common cause of falls. Operating heavy equipment in rainy weather can also be risky, as decreased visibility and traction make controlling machinery more difficult. For workers outside, lightning adds a serious threat. Employers can address this by properly maintaining rain gear and implementing safety protocols for severe weather.
Wind
Strong gusts of wind can knock over objects or unsecure equipment, posing a direct hazard to workers nearby. Individuals doing tasks on scaffolds or rooftops face the highest chance of harm, as wind can throw them off balance. Safety tools are essential in these cases, but it’s also important to avoid working in dangerous conditions.
Snow and Ice
When walkways, parking lots, or steps become icy, slips and falls often follow. Delivery drivers and anyone traveling between worksites may have trouble navigating unplowed roads. In severe snowfall, visibility may be significantly reduced, making accidents more likely. Using de-icing measures and wearing proper footwear can help keep everyone safe.
Legal Rights for Injured Workers
When severe weather contributes to a workplace injury, people often have two main options for pursuing financial help. The first is filing for workers’ compensation, and the second involves bringing legal action against a party other than your employer.
Workers’ Compensation
Workers’ compensation is a program meant to assist employees who suffer injuries on the job, including when harsh weather conditions play a role. It typically covers medical expenses, partial lost wages, and rehabilitation costs. You don’t need to prove fault or negligence to apply for and obtain these benefits. However, you do have to follow strict deadlines and procedures to qualify. While this option can be helpful in many situations, it comes with limits on how much you can recover.
Filing a Lawsuit Against a Third Party
When a company or individual other than your employer caused or contributed to your injuries, you may be able to file a lawsuit for damages. For example, if a property owner failed to clear ice from an entrance, or a manufacturer provided faulty safety equipment, you may be able to hold them responsible.
Pursuing legal action can include seeking compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Unlike workers’ comp, you’ll have to show that the party you’re suing acted negligently. If successful, this approach may result in a broader range of recovery than workers’ compensation alone.
By taking the time to explore these options and consulting a Los Angeles injury attorney from Grey Law, you can make informed decisions about how best to protect yourself if inclement weather causes a workplace injury. If you have questions about a workplace injury, contact us today to schedule a free consultation.