Winter weather may have already appeared in your area, but if not, Jack Frost will likely pay a visit soon. Freezing temperatures, heavy snow, and ice are tough on nearly everything – creating a range of hazards – so be mindful and ready to react to weather changes to help protect your agribusiness operation.
Worker Safety
Even if you’re not in an area that gets frigid, the cold weather can still be dangerous. Those who work outdoors face the dangers of lowered body temperature, hypothermia, and frostbite. The following precautions can keep your workers safe:
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Closed doors and windows keep warm air inside but restrict ventilation – increasing the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning when vehicles and machines run inside. Deaths from carbon monoxide exposure occur more during the winter than at any other time of year. To protect workers:
Workers should be familiar with the symptoms, including dizziness and confusion, blurry vision, vomiting, loss of consciousness, and fatigue. If carbon monoxide poisoning is suspected, workers should call 911, turn off machinery, and ventilate the area.
Livestock Safety
While most animals adapt to the cold weather, severe and prolonged cold weather can cause problematic stress – even those kept inside are not immune. Under extreme conditions, the following suggestions can offer protection:
Severe winter weather can endanger worker and livestock health and safety. Don’t wait for disaster to strike. Contact AssuredPartners Agribusiness for more safety resources and a review of your insurance program.
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