As an employer, there are many things that you must consider when it comes to the safety of your employees. Installing alarm systems and security lights, ensuring that walk ways are free from debris, and maintaining machinery are just a few examples. However, one thing that many employers overlook is safety from weather conditions.
Severe weather can happen at any time. Depending on the area of the country in which you live, you may be faced with tornadoes, hurricanes, winter snow storms, heavy thunderstorms, or even earthquakes. It is crucial that you have a weather emergency plan implemented in your place of business.
What You Can Do To Keep Your Employees Safe
• Have a designated emergency shelter area. You want to make sure that there is a safe place that your employees can retreat to in the event of strong storms, tornadoes, or hurricanes. You may want to have an empty supply closet or meeting room designated. Create specific instructions for your employees to follow in these types of situations.
• Make snow removal plans early. Make sure that you have a snow removal service in place to ensure clear walks and driveways. Coat these areas with the appropriate de-icing agents to ensure that they do not become too slippery for safe passage.
• Have a fire contingency plan in place. Fire Drills are not just for school kids. Make sure that all your exits properly work and are always accessible. Review your fire drill procedures monthly with your employees.
• Review building codes and regulations. Make sure that the office/building that you are in is in compliance with all building code regulations for weather. As reviewed by Indianapolis personal injury attorney, Randy Sevenish, “Personal injury or “tort” claims cover a wide range of physical or emotional injuries caused by another’s actions or failure to account for (a victim’s) safety.” If you have employees in a hurricane area, for example, you will want to ensure that you have the proper glass in your windows to withstand high winds. If you are in a heavy snow area, you will want to ensure that your roofing is fit to carry the weight of the snow.
• Provide first aid that’s readily available. If an emergency occurs, you also want to be prepared to administer any type of emergency care possible. This may include having compresses that can be “cracked” to provide cold or heat relief and bandages. If possible, have a way to contact emergency personnel included with your kit.
If you are not sure how to go about creating an employee emergency plan, or what should be included, you are encouraged to contact a personal injury attorney for advice. An attorney that specializes in injuries can offer the best advice on how to prevent injuries to a business owner. Additionally, a personal injury attorney can review your current plans to ensure that they are complete and in compliance with any laws in your area.
One of the best ways that an employer can prevent injuries from occurring, even during a weather event, is to be prepared. Have a plan in place, and make sure that your employees are trained in all aspects of this plan. Implement safety meetings, and depending on the season, review the weather safety protocols at those meetings.
As a news writer and reporter, Ann Bailey covered numerous emergency weather conditions, now compiling these steps for business owners to follow. Indianapolis personal injury attorney, Randy Sevenish works strenuously for compensation for his clients involved in injury accidents at the fault of their employers or other liable parties.
Photo Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/usacehq/5913266168/
