Safety Tips For Working In Cold Maryland Weather

Having a job where you spend much of your time outdoors may make you the envy of those who work in warehouses, manufacturing facilities, or office buildings. However, being inside has its advantages in Maryland, particularly at this time of year.

If your job requires spending any amount of time outdoors and in the elements, it is important to be aware of increased illness and injury risks. Our Maryland workers’ compensation attorney explains more about the hazards and offers safety tips for cold days ahead.

Frigid Weather Increases Risks Of On-The-Job Injuries In Maryland

The State of Maryland warns that January is traditionally the coldest month on the calendar, with temperatures frequently dipping well below freezing. However, in recent years, frigid weather has continued into March or even April. People who work outside at this time of year need to be aware of the potential dangers.

Working outside can be preferable to staring at four walls all day. However, being exposed to the elements can increase the risks of having to file a workers’ compensation claim in Maryland. Among those who face serious cold weather hazards include:

• Construction workers;
• Building inspectors;
• Maintenance workers;
• Road crews;
• Electricians, cable installers, and line repair people;
• Workers in the commercial fishing industry;
• Police, firefighters, and other emergency service workers.

Working in cold outdoor environments puts these and other workers at risk of cold stress, which is when your overall body temperature cools and takes occasional dips. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this can result in a variety of serious work-related injuries and illnesses, including frostbite and hypothermia. These jeopardize your overall health and can leave you unable to work on either a temporary or permanent basis.

Reducing Maryland Workers’ Compensation Risks During Cold Weather

Workers’ compensation in Maryland acts as a form of insurance when on-the-job injuries and occupational illnesses happen. It pays for your medical care and reimburses lost wages and other costs. Benefits are available for workers who suffer harm due to working out in the cold.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) advises that there are ways to reduce cold weather-related injury and illness risks. Outdoor workers are encouraged to take the following precautions:

• Dress for frigid weather, wearing at least three layers of clothes;
• Stay dry and pack extra work outfits, just in case you get wet;
• Make sure you have clean, dry socks and waterproof boots, and check your feet regularly;
• Take frequent indoor breaks from the cold;
• Report any redness, pain, swelling, or other symptoms to your employer and seek medical care immediately.

Request A Consultation With Our Maryland Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Today

Frigid weather can increase the risk of occupational illnesses and work-related injuries in Maryland. At Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP we help you get the benefits you need to cover your costs. Call or contact us online and request a consultation with our Maryland workers’ compensation attorneys today.

Sources:

msa.maryland.gov/msa/mdmanual/01glance/html/weather.html#:~:text=Temperature.,the%20low%20to%20mid%2020s.

cdc.gov/niosh/topics/coldstress/coldrelatedillnesses.html

osha.gov/sites/default/files/publications/OSHA3982.pdf