OSHA warns employers and employees of snow removal hazards 

If you have teams removing snow from roofs this winter, take precautions and focus on safety. 

With a massive winter storm and frigid temperatures recently affecting the East Coast, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is urging those involved in snow removal and cleanup to take precautions and focus on safety, according to www.osha.gov. 

Workers performing snow removal operations may be exposed to serious hazards, including slips and falls while walking on snow and ice. Other storm recovery work hazards include being struck by vehicles, carbon monoxide poisoning from misuse of generators, hypothermia and being injured by powered equipment. 

Anyone working outside for prolonged periods may experience cold stress with mild symptoms, such as shivering while remaining alert. Moderate to severe symptoms include when the shivering stops, confusion, slurred speech, heart rate/breathing slowness and loss of consciousness. When the body is unable to warm itself, serious cold-related injuries may occur, such as frostbite. 

To view a full list of winter storm hazards and safeguards, click here.