ALARM W O R K P L A C E
SAFETY TIPS
Dressing Properly for the Cold
Weather
Many employees work outside, (tribal
maintenance workers for example). In
some regions, winter temperatures can
be treacherous. Here are some things
for workers to consider when preparing
for the cold weather. Dressing properly
is extremely important to preventing
cold stress. When cold environments
or temperatures cannot be avoided, the
following would help protect workers
from cold stress:
Wear at least three layers of loose fitting
clothing. Layering provides better
insulation.
• An inner layer of wool, silk or
synthetic (polypropylene) to
keep moisture away from the
body. Thermal wear, wool, silk
or polypropylene, inner layers of
clothing that will hold more body
heat than cotton.
• A middle layer of wool or synthetic
to provide insulation even when
wet.
• An outer wind and rain protection
layer that allows some ventilation to
prevent overheating.
Tight clothing reduces blood circulation.
Warm blood needs to be circulated to the
extremities.
• Insulated coat/jacket (water
resistant if necessary).
• Knit mask to cover face and mouth
(if needed).
• Hat that will cover your ears as well.
A hat will help keep your whole
body warmer. Hats reduce the
amount of body heat that escapes
from your head.
• Insulated gloves (water resistant if
necessary), to protect the hands.
• Insulated and waterproof boots to
protect the feet.
https://www.osha.gov/dts/weather/winter_weather/
beprepared.html#safetytips
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AMERIND Risk ALARM | Q4
Space Heaters in the Office
Portable electric space heaters are used in workplaces across the country and
can pose a major workplace safety hazard. Fires can be caused by space heaters
without adequate safety features, space heaters placed near combustibles, or space
heaters that are improperly plugged in. We recommend you have a written policy
specifically stating requirements when using space heaters in the workplace. It is
critical that employees are aware of these guidelines for their safe use.
• Employees should be required to obtain approval from a supervisor or facility
manager prior to using a space heater at work.
• All space heaters should have the certification of an independent testing
laboratory.
• Proper placement of space heaters is critical. Heaters must be kept at least
three feet away from anything that can burn, including papers, clothing and
rugs.
• Space heaters should be placed out of high traffic areas and doorways where
they may pose a tripping hazard.
• Plug space heaters directly into a wall outlet. Do not use an extension cord or
power strip, which could overheat and result in a fire.
• Do not plug any other electrical devices into the same outlet as the heater.
• Operating space heaters should never be left una