Winter has always been a hazardous season for many industries, including manufacturing. Many companies ensure to follow safety precautions even before the icy season to get the work done without anyone getting hurt.
The Hazards of the Ice
Here’s a list of the common hazards usually experienced by the people working in the manufacturing industry during winter and how to avoid them:
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Driving when delivering products
Manufacturers have to deliver their goods to their clients to keep the business going no matter the season. When the streets are covered with snow, many companies use snow tires that have excellent treads that help in preventing the vehicles from slipping and causing an accident.
They also remind their employees to check the vehicles’ wipers regularly and remove the snow often. Aside from checking, they also replace the windshield fluid weekly to ensure that it will work whenever needed.
It is also crucial to bring a first-aid kit in the vehicle before the deliveries. You never know what will happen on the road, so it’s best to be prepared.
Most importantly, all vehicles must go through regular check-ups and services. It would be hard for the employees to get stuck on the road once the icy season begins.
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Icy walkways and parking lots
When ice accumulates in walkways and parking lots during winter, it becomes dangerous for people working in the manufacturing sector. The icy paths can cause injuries, including slipping and falling. The best solution to the problem is salt.
When you pour salt into the snow, it will melt, thus, minimizing the risks of people slipping and hurting themselves. When the snow build-up becomes too much, companies deal with it by using heavy machinery to remove the blockage. This will give people ample space to walk by while minimizing the accidents of their employees.
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Falls and slips on slick floors
At times, employees working in the manufacturing industry may track the ice, mud, or snow, making the floor slippery. The slippery floors are dangerous as employees can fall and injure themselves while carrying fragile or heavy materials.
The best way to solve this problem is by ensuring that there are absorbent mats placed at the entry point of the manufacturing plant. The mats catch the drips from employees coming from the outdoors so that the indoor flooring will remain dry as much as possible.
A buffer can also be created through the addition of mudrooms. The mudrooms are equipped with benches that enable employees to sit down and remove mud or snow from their boots to avoid unnecessary slip-ups when working.
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Static problem
Static is common during winter. It can be dangerous and can cause equipment to break.
To reduce static, employees need to be cautious that the humidity and temperature levels are at good levels all the time. Companies must also provide their employees with ground straps for comfortability.
Manufacturers are also encouraged to educate their employees on keeping the ground in good condition. Employees can also use high-quality cables to manufacture equipment to prevent them from having static.
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Shipping and loading docks
Loading and shipping docks are usually open for business on a good day. However, snow and ice cause the metal gates to be slippery during the winter season.
Employees are encouraged to wear shoes with firm treads to ensure that they do not slip up and hurt themselves. The non-slip mats should also be provided to avoid falls during the winter season.
Manufacturers are advised to add heaters to shipping and loading docks. The heaters ensure that all employees are kept warm to avoid them from getting frostbites while at work.
Talk to us.
Safe Industrial assures that you get all the necessary tools to boost your business during the winter season. We ensure that your safety is the topmost priority in our service delivery. You can reach us through our mobile number 01334 596240 for any queries.