Storm hazards are also occupational hazards. The keys to protecting your workers are planning and preparation. PMA Companies shares how to help keep your workers safe from lightning.
Lightning is often overlooked as a workplace hazard. According to the National Weather Service, there were 19 lightning fatalities in 2022. Among the key hazards with lightning storms are victims caught outside during a storm or going back outside too soon after a storm has passed.
Assess Your Hazards
Do you manage lifeguards, sporting events, playgrounds, farms? Who could be injured? Where are workers at certain times of day? At minimum, your plan should include the following steps:
Create Awareness
Educate employees, managers, facility maintenance, etc., on the importance of pre-planning and weather awareness. No place is safe outside when thunderstorms are in the area. Ensure your workers understand the following:
Resources to help keep your workers safe with education and training:
If you have any questions or would like additional information, please contact your local PMA Risk Control Consultant or reach out to us at heretohelp@pmagroup.com.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
The information and suggestions presented by PMA Companies in this risk control technical bulletin are for your consideration in your loss prevention efforts. They are not intended to be complete or definitive in identifying all hazards associated with your business, preventing workplace accidents, or complying with any safety related or other laws or regulations. You are encouraged to alter the information and suggestions to fit the specific hazards of your business and to have your legal counsel review all of your plans and company policies. PMA Companies and Old Republic Companies do not provide legal advice and the information and suggestions in this bulletin should not be considered as such.