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The average cost of workers' compensation claims in the U.S. is a staggering $0.46 per employee per hour worked. Businesses are paying out billions of dollars every year to cover legal costs. However, workers’ compensation insurance can be affordable if companies take the right approach to forklift safety. Improving standards in warehouses, yards, and other building areas can reduce the risk of injury and keep premiums low. 

Here’s how you can improve forklift safety and reduce the risk of employees making claims: 

Ensure Employees Remain Two Meters (Or More) From Forklifts In Operation

One method is to ensure employees remain two meters or more from forklifts in operation. This practice in warehouses and yards reduces the risk of crush injuries where drivers reverse into people they can’t see behind them. It may make things less efficient in some warehouses. but it can be managed. Forklift drivers can alternate their activities with pickers to optimize their movements. 

Wear Hi-Vis Clothing

Forklift operators should also dress in appropriate workwear to protect themselves and be more conspicuous to other site users. High-visibility jackets, luminous hard hats, and safety shoes are a must. 

No Loading While Moving

Avoiding loading while moving is another essential. Forklift drivers should avoid any actions that might cause the vehicle to topple over (which can happen during loaded directional changes). If forklift drivers take risks at your business, institute training and a disciplinary policy. Drivers who break the rules should face consequences. 

No Rides

Forklift truck drivers should also avoid giving rides to other people in the workplace. While it might be convenient or fun for staff, it is also dangerous. If you notice employees taking rides on forklifts, initiate disciplinary action. Ensure you send a message to your team that this sort of behavior is prohibited. 

Maintain 360-Degree Visibility

Another way to reduce worker’s comp claims is to ensure forklift drivers are maintaining 360-degree visibility of their vehicles. Staff should have a view of the rack and loading position. The OHSA also recommends: 

• Looking in the direction of travel
• Making use of mirrors
• Using lights if working outdoors or at night
• Warning approaching staff and making eye contact with them

Implement Floor Markings

It can also help to implement floor markings to reduce risks further. These boundaries show where it is safe for pedestrians to wal(610) 775-3848k (similar to sidewalks on the public highway). Zones keep drivers and staff separate and prevent new hires from straying into dangerous areas. 

Observe Equipment Capacity

Lastly, companies can reduce the risk of costly payouts by observing equipment capacity and avoiding overloading. Forklifts can only carry so much until they topple over. When they do, the risk of serious crush injury and death is high. 

Start Saving on Workers Compensation Insurance

Stop spending a fortune on your WC insurance premiums. Our independent agents specialize in comparing rates from competing carriers to find you the best price on quality insurance protection. Call (610) 775-3848 or  Contact us online today for the best rates on worker's compensation insurance.

To lower Contractor's Insurance costs, you need to lower the risk of exposure to hazards such as benzene. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), "Human exposure to benzene has been associated with a range of acute and long-term adverse health effects and diseases, including cancer and hematological effects. Exposure can occur occupationally, in the general environment, and in the home as a result of the ubiquitous use of benzene-containing petroleum products, including motor fuels and solvents."   

What is Benzene?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) describes benzene as "a chemical that is a colorless or light yellow liquid at room temperature. It has a sweet odor and is highly flammable." It is formed naturally – in volcanoes and forest fires – and created through human activities. It is found in oil, gasoline, and cigarette smoke and evaporates into the air quickly.

Benzene is widely used in the U.S. and is ranked in the top twenty chemicals for production volume. It is used to make glues, paints, synthetic fibers, detergents, pesticides, and more. Most exposure to benzene occurs through inhalation, but it can also be consumed in water or food. Exposure to tobacco smoke (either smoking yourself or from secondhand smoke) accounts for about half of all exposure to benzene in the U.S.

What are the Dangers of Benzene?

"Benzene works by causing cells not to work correctly. For example, it can cause bone marrow not to produce enough red blood cells, which can lead to anemia," the CDC explains. "Also, it can damage the immune system by changing blood levels of antibodies and causing the loss of white blood cells."

According to the American Cancer Society, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified benzene as "carcinogenic to humans." The U.S. National Toxicology Program (NTP) has classified benzene as "known to be a human carcinogen," and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has classified benzene as "a known human carcinogen."

Carcinogens are substances capable of causing cancer. Research has linked benzene exposure to acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), multiple myeloma, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Exposure to benzene in your eyes, skin, or lungs can cause irritation and tissue injury.

What are the Symptoms of Benzene Exposure?

Someone who has inhaled high levels of benzene may experience one or more of the following symptoms:

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Unconsciousness
• Tremors
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Headaches
• Death

Someone who has eaten foods or drank beverages with high levels of benzene may experience the following symptoms:

• Dizziness
• Sleepiness
• Irritation of the stomach
• Vomiting
• Convulsions
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Death

If exposed to airborne benzene, leave the area, remove your clothing, wash with soap and water, and get medical care immediately. If you swallow benzene, don' drink fluids or try to induce vomiting. Also, CPR should not be performed as it may cause you to vomit, which can be sucked into and damage your lungs. 

How Can I Minimize Exposure to Benzine?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) limits airborne exposure. "The maximum time-weighted average (TWA) exposure limit is 1 part of benzene vapor per million parts of air (1 ppm) for an 8-hour workday, and the maximum short-term exposure limit (STEL) is five ppm for any 15-minute period."

Here are steps to minimize your exposure to Benzine:

• Don't breathe in gasoline vapors
• Use a well-ventilated area to fuel vehicles and equipment
• Avoid areas with excessive auto exhaust
• Don't smoke or be in places where you can be exposed to secondhand smoke
• Regularly wash your hands
• Use engineering controls to limit exposure to benzene
• Wear a respirator if needed

Don't Overpay For Contractor Insurance!

At American Insuring Group, we do more than provide you with affordable contractor insurance. We perform an in-depth review of your business, compare the costs and types of liability insurance with many competing carriers, provide you with multiple contractor insurance quotes, and share our recommendations on the best choice for your business.

Call us today at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848, or connect with us online.

The best way to lower Workers' Compensation (WC) Insurance costs is to create a safer work environment, thereby reducing the number of injuries and the number of WC claims. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there were 2,607,900 nonfatal injuries and illnesses in the private industry in 2021 and 5,190 fatal injuries.

"The total cost of work injuries in 2021 was $167.0 billion. This figure includes wage and productivity losses of $47.4 billion, medical expenses of $36.6 billion, and administrative expenses of $57.5 billion," according to the National Safety Council (NSC). "This total also includes employers' uninsured costs of $13.8 billion, including the value of time lost by workers other than those with disabling injuries who are directly or indirectly involved in injuries, and the cost of time required to investigate injuries, write up injury reports, and so forth. The total also includes damage to motor vehicles in work-related injuries of $5.4 billion and fire losses of $6.3 billion."

One way to minimize these costs in your workplace is to create a safer work environment. First, you need to understand the most common causes and the most common types of injuries. Then, you can take steps to eliminate those causes and minimize injuries.

Most Common Causes of Workplace Injuries, Accidents, Illnesses, and Fatalities:

Falls, slips, and trips – Falls, slips, and trips can result in sprains, strains, bruises, fractures, cuts, etc. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 18% of nonfatal work injuries that resulted in days away from work in 2020 were related to slips, trips, and falls.

Transportation incidents - According to the CDC, 1,038 U.S. workers died in work-related crashes involving motor vehicles (22% of all deaths) in 2020.

Overexertion and bodily reaction – Common activities that can cause overexertion and bodily reaction injuries include lifting, pushing, turning, carrying, and throwing. According to the NSC, in 2020, overexertion and bodily reaction were the second leading nonfatal injury or illness event involving days away from work, representing 22% of all such injuries.

Contact with objects and equipment – According to the NSC, "Prior to 2020, contact with objects and equipment was the third leading cause of injury and illness involving days away from work and accounts for 16.7% of cases in 2020."

Exposure to harmful substances or environments – This can include exposure to electricity, radiation, noise, extreme temperatures, harmful substances, etc. "Because of illness cases related to COVID-19 (coded as Other diseases due to viruses, not elsewhere classified [n.e.c.]), the leading cause of work-related injuries and illnesses involving days away from work in 2020 was exposure to harmful substances or environments," according to the NSC. Still, exposure to harmful substances or environments was the sixth-ranked cause before 2020.

Fire and Explosions – According to the NSC, in 2020, 1,770 workplace injuries resulted from fire and explosions.

Most Common Workplace Injuries:

• Ligament Sprains and Tears
• Tendon and Muscle Strains and Tears
• Herniated Discs
• Repetitive Use Injuries
• Cuts, Lacerations, Punctures
• Lacerations
• Bruises and Contusions
• Broken Bones
• Neck and Back Injuries
• Shoulder Injuries
• Burns
• Electrocutions

Tips to Minimize the Risk of Workplace Injuries:

• Conduct Regular Risk Assessments
• Conduct physical assessments for demanding roles
• Provide safety and wellness training
• Hire qualified workers
• Hire enough workers
• Keep workspaces clean and walkways clear
• Post proper signage
• Provide adequate lighting
• Practice good equipment and vehicle maintenance
• Provide appropriate PPE
• Require employees to dress appropriately for their roles
• Discourage employees from taking shortcuts
• Understand Safety Standards and Regulations
• Consider workplace ergonomics to reduce the risk of Repetitive Stress Injuries

Lower Your Workers' Compensation Insurance Costs

Understanding the most common causes and types of injuries and taking steps to minimize the risk of those injuries is one way to lower WC costs.

Another way is to work with the experienced independent agents at American Insuring Group, Ltd. We offer cost-effective Worker's Compensation insurance from various competing insurance companies. We'll work hard to get you the best price on quality insurance to protect your employees and your business!

Call us today at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848, or connect with us online.

The right Contractors Insurance helps protect you, your business, and your employees; however, minimizing the risk of injuries, litigations, property damage, etc., helps keep your insurance and other administrative costs down. We all know construction sites are filled with safety hazards and risks, such as working at heights, falling objects, excessive noise, electrical hazards, etc.

“In 2020, construction laborers saw their highest annual fatal injury count (308) in the last 5 years,” according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). “Construction laborers accounted for almost a third of all fatal injuries in construction and extraction occupations in 2020, the highest proportion since 2016.”

Winter weather - such as extreme cold, frigid winds, snow, and ice - adds to the year-round hazards. We were lucky to have a mild winter here in the northeast last year, but experts predict lots of rain/sleet and snowstorms this winter. Therefore, it would be wise to hope for the best but prepare for the worst when keeping your worksites safe this winter.

Construction Site Winter Hazards

To properly mitigate any risk, you need first to consider potential hazards:

• Extreme cold
• High winds
• Icy roads and surfaces
• Snow and ice on scaffolding, equipment, etc.
• Frozen pipes
• Downed powerlines

Along with the potential result of those hazards:

• Slipping and falling
• Loss of dexterity
• Loss of alertness
• Cold stress (cold-related illnesses and injuries)

Winter Safety Tips for Contractors

Watch Weather Forecasts. There are plenty of weather apps today, so you can keep an eye on the weather forecast to ensure you don’t send your workers out in dangerous conditions, such as a blizzard.

Remove Snow and Ice From the Worksite. Before work begins, a supervisor should survey the worksite to determine any potential hazards. Snow should be removed from the worksite to prevent slips and falls, and salt or sand should be applied to melt ice.

Require Proper Clothing and Gear. The right clothing can help protect your workers. Wearing layers is always a good idea so workers can adjust what they’re wearing as the weather changes. The “layering system” consists of three layers – the base layer to regulate your body temperature and wick away moisture from the skin, the mid-layer to provide insulation, and the outer layer to protect you from the wind and snow.

Based on weather conditions, workers should also wear heavy-duty work boots with good traction, appropriate coats, warm socks, gloves, hard hat liners, and eye protection.

Provide Heated Breaks When temperatures are particularly frigid, workers must limit their exposure to the elements. Provide a heated area, such as a heated trailer or a tent with a portable heater, where they can take breaks and escape the elements.

Avoid Caffeine According to BC First Aid, to prevent frostbite and hypothermia, you should “avoid caffeine and alcohol, which hinder the body´s heat-producing mechanisms and will actually cause the body´s core temperature to drop.”

Recognize the Symptoms of Cold Stress. Anyone who has to work in a cold environment may be at risk of cold stress. “Cold stress occurs by driving down the skin temperature, and eventually the internal body temperature,” according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). “When the body is unable to warm itself, serious cold-related illnesses and injuries may occur, and permanent tissue damage and death may result.” Cold-related injuries include hypothermia, frostbite, chilblains, and trench foot.

OSHA reports the risk factors for cold stress include the following:

• Wetness/dampness, dressing improperly, and exhaustion
• Predisposing health conditions such as hypertension, hypothyroidism, and diabetes
• Poor physical conditioning

OSHA provides this “Cold Stress Guide,” which lists the symptoms of the different types of cold stress and what to do if any of your workers experience them.

Lower Your Contractor Insurance Bill the Easy Way!

At American Insuring Group, we do more than provide you with affordable contractor and construction insurance. We perform an in-depth review of your business. Then, we compare the costs and types of liability insurance for contractors among many competing carriers, providing you with multiple contractor insurance quotes and our recommendation on the best choice for your business. 

Call us today at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848, or connect with us online.

Toolbox talks are designed to improve safety, minimize the risk of injury, and save money – including Contractor Insurance costs. Construction sites are filled with hazards. “In 2020, 4,764 workers in the United States suffered fatal work injuries,” according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “Over that period, the private construction industry accounted for 1,008 deaths or 21.2 percent of total deaths.” 

Hand and power tools are a necessity on any construction site, but even the simplest tool can become a hazard when poorly maintained or misused. 

Using the Wrong Tool

Using the right tool for the job may seem so apparent that a toolbox talk addressing the issue appears silly. However, many workers – knowingly or unknowingly – break this rule. For example, imagine a worker discovers he missed that last screw and has already put his drill away, but his pocket knife is handy, so he uses it to drive in that last screw.

You’ve probably seen something similar on a worksite or perhaps even did it yourself. Nine times out of ten, everything goes just fine, but it only takes one time – the blade slips and causes a severe laceration, damages material, breaks a tool, etc. – to become an issue. 

Examples of Using the Wrong Tool:

• Using a tool for a purpose, it was never intended for
• Using a damaged tool
• Using the right tool incorrectly
• Improperly modifying a tool
• Not taking proper safety precautions, such as not wearing appropriate PPE when needed

Reasons workers may not use the right tool:

• They haven’t been trained properly
• They don’t know the hazards
• They don’t know the correct tool to use
• They think an injury can’t happen to them
• It seems easier

Workers can minimize the risk of many injuries by understanding what tool is suitable for the job (and using it) and properly maintaining their tools. A toolbox talk addressing the issue can remind workers of the dangers of using the wrong tool and minimize some of the hazards workers face every day.

Hazards of Using the Wrong Tool

The first step is to remind workers of the hazards of using the wrong tool. They could…

• Injure themselves – getting an electrical shock or electrocution by using uninsulated steel tools
• Injure someone else – a loose, splintered, or cracked wooden handle on a hammer or axe can cause the head of the tool to fly off and hit someone else
• Damage materials – cracking tiles by using the wrong drill bit
• Break their tools – breaking a screwdriver by using it as a chisel or pry bar
• Cause an accident – starting a fire with an overworked, over-heated power tool
• Make the job more difficult than it needs to be – using a dull saw or the wrong type of saw to cut materials

Proper Training

Proper training – including toolbox talks - is crucial. Workers need to understand that your business prioritizes safety and how to use and maintain tools properly. 

The U.S. Department of Labor offers five basic safety rules to help prevent hazards associated with the use of tools:

1. Keep all tools in good condition with regular maintenance.
2. Use the right tool for the job.
3. Examine each tool for damage before use, and do not use damaged tools.
4. Operate tools according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Provide and use properly the right personal protective equipment.

Additional tool safety tips include the following:

6. Read the manufacturer’s instructions
7. Inspect all tools before use
8. Keep sharp tools covered when not in use
9. Store tools properly when not in use 

Get a Free Contractors Insurance Quote Today

Want to lower your Contractor Insurance costs? Call American Insuring Group at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848 or connect with us online for a free quote. As independent agents, we compare the cost of your coverage with several carriers to ensure you pay the lowest premium while getting the reliable coverage you need.

The more injuries your workers sustain, the higher your Contractors Insurance premiums. One all-to-common injury is traumatic brain injury (TBI) that results from falling debris, tools, and materials; flying objects; and hitting low beams. 

The construction industry has the highest number of fatal and nonfatal work-related (WR) TBIs. “From 2003 to 2010, 2,210 construction workers died because of a TBI (a rate of 2.6 per 100,000 full-time equivalent workers),” according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “These deaths represented 25% of all construction fatalities and 24% of all WR TBI fatalities among all industries during that period.” 

The CDC states, “More severe TBIs can impact a worker’s ability to return to their pre-injury job and be expensive for both workers and employers in long-term rehabilitation and disability costs.” And don’t think that just because you own or operate a small construction company, your workers are immune to TBIs because workers in small construction companies are 2.5 times more likely to die from a TBI. 

Protective headwear is an essential part of protecting construction workers from WR TBIs. In fact, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires construction employers to provide head protection for “employees working in areas where there is a possible danger of head injury from impact, falling or flying objects, or electrical shock and burns.” 

However, protective headwear does more than protect workers from WR TBIs. The appropriate hard hat or safety helmet can also protect workers from electrical shock, burns, and more. 

Not all hard hats are created equal, and the proper head protection depends on the type of hazards the worker will be subjected to. Here is some information about hard hats and safety helmets to help you and your workers choose the most suitable headgear. 

All Good Protective Headwear Should do the Following:

• Be water resistant
• Be slow burning
• Include a suspension system
• Be resistant to penetration and blows to the head
• Absorb impact
• Provide insulation from electrical shock
• Shield the worker’s scalp, face, shoulders, and neck 

Hard Hats Vs. Safety Helmets

There are two types of head protection – hard hats and safety helmets. The purpose of the traditional hard hat is to protect a worker’s head from objects falling from above; however, not all hazards come from above. Therefore, safety helmets - which are equipped with more internal padding, adjustable chin straps, a small brim, face shields, ear protection, and other safety features - might be a better choice in many cases. Safety helmets, which look and feel different than a hard hat, usually sit closer to the head and provide additional protection from lateral impacts. 

Classes and Types of Hard Hats and Safety Helmets

Hard hats and safety helmets that comply with OSHA standards are marked inside with a class and a type. The class and type are the same for both hats and helmets. 

The class is based on how much electrical protection the headwear provides:

CLASS G (general) has been tested to withstand low-voltage electrical conductors of up to 2,200 volts.

CLASS E (electrical) has been tested to withstand high-voltage electrical conductors of up to 20,000 volts.

CLASS C (conductive) provides no protection from electrical conductors. 

And there are two types of head protection:

TYPE 1 reduces impact force from hits to the top of the head.

TYPE 2 reduces impact force from hits to the top and sides of the head. 

Training, Fit, and Maintenance of Hard Hats and Safety Helmets

Workers should be trained on OSHA requirements, your company’s policies, when and how to wear a hard hat or safety helmet, what type of headgear is most appropriate for each job, and how to maintain protective headgear.

The top reason workers give for not wearing head protection is a bad fit, and a hard hat or safety helmet that does not fit correctly can reduce its effectiveness. To ensure a proper fit…

• The head harness should leave a 1 to1 ¼” gap between the hard shell of the hat and the worker’s head
• The headgear should not fall off the worker’s head when they bend over
• The rim should face forward 

Over time, hard hats and helmets take a beating, so workers should inspect them regularly for cracks, dents, etc., to the shell; tears and frays in the straps; and fading or chalky appearance in the plastic to ensure they continue to provide good head protection. If, upon inspection, any of these are discovered, the head protection should be replaced. 

Lower Your Contractors Insurance Cost

Want to learn more about minimizing injuries? Check out American Insuring Group’s blog.

Want to learn how you can lower your contractors insurance costs? Call American Insuring Group at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848 or connect with us online!

Workers’ Compensation (WC) Insurance and OSHA standards may seem interconnected, but they are two separate entities. 

What is OSHA?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) was created in 1971 as a result of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970. Its purpose is to “assure safe and healthful conditions for workers.” 

Based on extensive research, OSHA sets and enforces requirements and standards that employers are required to follow to help keep employees safe. The organization also provides training, outreach, education, and compliance assistance. 

OSHA states, “Under the OSHA law, employers have a responsibility to provide a safe workplace.’ Those responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Keep records of work-related injuries and illnesses. (Note: Employers with ten or fewer employees and employers in specific low-hazard industries are exempt from this requirement).
• Ensure employees have and use safe tools and equipment and properly maintain this equipment.
• Use color codes, posters, labels, or signs to warn employees of potential hazards.
• Establish or update operating procedures and communicate them so employees follow safety and health requirements.
• Provide safety training in a language and vocabulary workers can understand.

Failure to comply with OSHA’s requirements and standards can lead to fines and even criminal prosecution referrals. The maximum penalty for violations is $15,625 per violation, and the maximum penalty for willful or repeated violations is $156,259 per violation. 

What is Workers’ Compensation Insurance?

In Pennsylvania (and many states), Workers’ Compensation Insurance is mandatory, employer-financed, no-fault insurance. It typically covers lost wages, medical expenses, disability payments, and death benefits related to work-related injuries or illness and protects employers from accident-related lawsuits. 

If an employer is uninsured when an employee suffers a compensable work-related injury, the employer will be required to reimburse any money paid from the Uninsured Employers Guaranty Fund in relation to the WC claim, including interest, penalties, and fees. Failure to comply can also lead to jail time. If the violation is deemed intentional, the employer could be charged with a felony offense with up to seven years of prison time. Furthermore, employers who fail to provide WC insurance can be sued by the injured employee for injuries related to the job. 

Bottom line: OSHA is focused on providing a safe work environment and minimizing the risk of injury, and WC Insurance is focused on providing medical care for employees injured in the workplace. 

How Can OSHA Compliance Help Lower Workers’ Comp Costs?

According to OSHA, “In 1970 [when the act was instated], an estimated 14,000 workers were killed on the job – about 38 every day. For 2021, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports this number fell to about 5,190 or about 14 workers per day. At the same time, U.S. employment has more than doubled to over 143 million workers at more than 10 million worksites. The rate of reported serious workplace injuries and illnesses has also dropped markedly, from 10.9 per 100 workers in 1972 to 2.7 per 100 workers in 2021.” 

Because OSHA’s standards and regulations help lower the number of workplace injuries, complying with them helps lower WC costs. 

Creating a safer workplace is good business sense. Here are a few of the benefits:

• Happier employees
• Lower employee turnover
• Lower absenteeism
• Fewer lost workdays
• Better company reputation
• Fewer lawsuits
• Increased productivity
• Lower administrative costs
• Lower Workers’ Compensation Insurance costs 

Experts have found that businesses see an average return of $4-$6 for every dollar invested into workplace safety programs. 

5 Tips to Become OSHA Compliant

1. Understand OSHA’s Standards and Regulations
2. Utilize OSHA’s Resources
3. Develop, Implement, and Enforce a Workplace Safety Program
4. Create a Safety Culture

How to Save Even More on Workers’ Compensation Costs

Creating a safer work environment helps reduce the number of WC claims, thereby reducing WC costs. In addition, working with one of the experienced independent agents at American Insuring Group can help you save even more. For a free quote on any of your insurance needs, give us a call today at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848 or connect with us online.

One of the best ways to lower Contractor Insurance costs is by creating safer worksites. Construction sites are filled with hazards – moving vehicles, falling objects, heavy equipment, etc. These are the more noticeable hazards because if an accident occurs, it's immediately apparent. One hazard that may not be as obvious is cold winter weather because the harmful effects of cold weather may not appear immediately. 

Hazards of Working in Cold Weather

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states, "Anyone who has to work in a cold environment may be at risk of cold-related illnesses and injuries, or 'cold stress.'" Here are cold-related illnesses and injuries to watch for.

Hypothermia – When exposed to the cold, your body loses heat faster than it can produce. Extended exposure to cold temperatures can result in the loss of your body's stored energy, leading to hypothermia or dangerously low body temperatures. Hypothermia can occur at temperatures above 40 degrees F if you're chilled by sweat or snow.

Frostbite – The Mayo Clinic describes frostbite as "an injury caused by freezing of the skin and underlying tissues." Body parts particularly prone to frostbite are fingers, toes, nose, and ears. Frostbite can occur when the air temperature is below 32 degrees F.

Trench Foot – When your feet are wet and cold for an extended time, moisture can cause your feet to lose heat, which can slow blood flow and damage tissue. 

3 Tips to Avoid Cold Weather Hazards

Training
Empower your workers to make smart choices by training them on working in cold weather. That training should include the following:

• The hazards of cold weather
• Proper PPE
• Symptoms of hypothermia, frostbite, and trench foot
• How to treat these conditions

Personal Protective Equipment PPE
The right PPE can help protect your workers from the dangers of cold weather and help lower your Contractor Insurance costs. Plus, comfortable and healthy workers are more productive. OSHA does not require that employers provide ordinary clothing used solely for protection from the weather, such as coats, gloves, and hats; however, sometimes, it makes good business sense to do so.

• Heavy-Duty Work Boots – Feet are particularly susceptible to frostbite. Waterproof leather boots with rubber bottoms and a warm lining are typically best when working in cold weather.
• Insulated Gloves – Which gloves are best depends on the type of work you are performing. Typically, the best gloves provide a thin nylon layer against your skin to wick moisture away, a liner for insulation, and a thicker exterior. Water-resistant materials are a must if your hands will be submerged in water or snow.
• Hard Hat Liners – Hard hat liners can help protect your head, neck, and ears when working in cold weather.
• Eye Protection – The sun's glare reflecting off snow can be intense. Polarized safety glasses with anti-fog and foam lining are the best defense against sun glare and the wind.

Clothing Layers
Layering clothing is key to keeping warm and safe in any weather. There are three layers you should consider:

• Base layer – The base layer sits directly against your skin and should wick away moisture and regulate your body temperature. Synthetic, merino wool, or silk materials are good options but avoid cotton.
• Mid Layer – The next layer should provide insulation. Merino wool, micro-fleece, and soft shells are good choices.
• Outer Layer – The outer layer should protect you from wind, rain, and snow. This layer should be breathable and either water-resistant or waterproof. 

Call Us If You Want to Save On Contractor Insurance!

Another step to lowering Contractor insurance costs is calling American Insuring Group at (800) 947-1270 or (610) 775-3848 or connecting with us online. Our independent agents will compare the cost of your insurance with several insurance companies to ensure that you pay the lowest premium.

To help you lower Contractors Insurance costs, we share many blogs and tips about keeping workers safe because fewer accidents translate to lower costs. We all know that construction sites – with large pieces of machinery, power tools, moving vehicles, and heavy objects - can be hazardous places. After all, the National Safety Council (NSC) reports that the construction industry experienced the most workplace deaths in 2020.

Typically, construction site accidents do involve workers; however, your workers don’t work in a bubble. Worksite hazards can also affect the public; therefore, construction safety must go beyond protecting workers.

You also need to consider the safety of the public to ensure your work activities don’t put them in harm’s way. The public – pedestrians and drivers - can be particularly susceptible to worksite injuries because, unlike your employees, they probably have not received safety training. Therefore, they may not recognize hazards common to construction sites.

Assess the Site

Every project occurs in a different environment, which makes potential hazards to the public unique to each worksite. Therefore, the first step to protecting the public is to assess potential risks at each worksite and determine how your work could impact the public. This assessment should occur before work begins and periodically throughout the project, as potential hazards can change.

This assessment should help you determine worksite boundaries. It should be crystal clear where public space ends and construction zones begin. Unfortunately, many accidents occur when adults or children - unaware of the dangers construction sites may pose - inadvertently wander into construction zones.

Setting Boundaries

The NSC states “the entire project perimeter and specific hazards within the project site” should be fenced and gated, and “multiple warning signs on the fence instructing the public that this is a construction site” should be installed.

To determine the proper fencing for a particular project, you should consider the following:

• How busy the area is. How many cars and pedestrians will pass by your worksite?
• The type of construction.
• Location of site and proximity to other buildings
• Existing boundaries

5 Most Common Construction Site Hazards to the Public

Once the boundaries are clearly marked, the next step is to look at what type of hazards your worksite may pose to the public and take measures to keep the public safe. Here are the five most common construction site hazards to look for and tips to avoid them:

1. Falling Objects – Construct sidewalk sheds around the walkways where appropriate and install netting or use toe boards on scaffolds so falling objects are caught before hitting anyone. 
   
   
2. Falling into holes, trenches, and other openings - These openings should be covered and barricaded with warning signs posted.
   
   
3. Being struck by moving vehicles - During construction, nearby traffic patterns may change. If the new route is not clearly marked, drivers or pedestrians can end up in the path of construction vehicles. Therefore, erecting barricades and using signage is imperative. If the area receives heavy traffic – especially during rush hour – a flag person should help direct vehicles. Pedestrians are even more vulnerable to moving vehicles; therefore, if sidewalks are rerouted, they must have a clearly identified alternate route that is ADA-accessible. Adequate lighting can also help eliminate accidents.
   
   
4. Scaffolding – To avoid the public being hit by scaffolding, ensure that there is enough room when erecting scaffolding and that it is properly constructed and maintained.
   
   
5. Materials – Materials that are stacked or stored outside the worksite perimeter can cause tripping hazards. Hazardous or flammable materials can also cause injuries. Therefore, keeping materials within the worksite perimeter and hazardous materials stored in approved storage lockers is best.

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Sometimes, despite your best efforts, accidents occur, which is why Contractor Insurance is vital to protect your business. At American Insuring Group, we perform an in-depth review of your business. Then, we compare the costs and types of liability insurance among several competing carriers, providing you with multiple quotes and our recommendation on the best choice for your business.

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Workplace accidents are a significant cause of higher Contractor Insurance costs, so it stands to reason that reducing the number of workplace accidents (and subsequent injuries) will help lower your Contractor Insurance costs. One way to reduce the number of injuries is with Toolbox Talks – informal group discussions that focus on a specific safety topic. 

Since back injuries are a significant concern in the construction industry, a toolbox talk that focuses on safe lifting can be helpful. "Back injuries account for almost 20% of all nonfatal injuries and illnesses with days away from work in construction," according to the Center for Construction Research and Training. "Work-related back injuries and illnesses are caused mainly by repeated lifting of materials, sudden movements, whole body vibration, lifting and twisting at the same time, or bending over for long periods of time." 

And these injuries are costly. The Center reports, "Among all reported injuries in the construction industry, low-back claims are the most frequent and make up the largest proportion of claims costs and days away from work. The prevalence of back injuries among construction workers is probably even higher than the BLS numbers indicate since many injuries are underreported in the construction industry." While you can't eliminate back injuries, you can substantially reduce them with a Toolbox Talk that focuses on safe lifting. 

Two Types of Controls to Prevent Lifting Injuries

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has identified two types of controls for preventing lifting injuries – administrative and engineering. Engineering controls involve designing workstations to minimize lifting hazards. Examples of this type of control include positioning a work table to avoid long or awkward reaches, using a device to move heavy objects, and redesigning tools. 

Administrative controls include properly training workers, which is what a Toolbox Talk should focus on. 

Proper Lifting Technique

Grainger offers the following steps for safe lifting:

1. Stand close to the load with your feet spread shoulder-width apart. One foot should be slightly in front of the other for balance.
2. Squat down, bending at the knees (not your waist). Tuck your chin while keeping your back as vertical as possible.
3. Get a firm grasp of the object before beginning the lift.
4. Slowly begin straightening your legs, lifting slowly. Never twist your body during this step.
5. Once the lift is complete, keep the object as close to the body as possible. If the load's center of gravity moves away from your body, there is a dramatic increase in stress to the back's lumbar region. 

If you need to set the object below waist level, use the same procedures in reverse order. 

Additional Lifting Tips

• Take your time
• Lift smoothly, avoiding jerky movements
• Stretch before lifting heavy objects
• Store heavy materials at waist height when possible
• Have heavy materials delivered as close to the final destination as possible
• Before lifting, determine the best place to grip the material
• Ensure your intended path is free of clutter and slipping hazards
• Use carts, forklifts, or dollies when appropriate
• Ask for help from another worker 

NOTE: "Back belts are not recognized by OSHA as effective engineering controls to prevent back injury. While they may be accepted by individual workers because they feel as if they provide additional support, the effectiveness of back belts in the prevention of low back injuries has not been proven in the work environment." 

Save More on Contractor Insurance!

Another way to save on Contractor Insurance is to work with one of the experienced agents at American Insuring Group, who specializes in Contractor Insurance. We can ensure you have the best coverage for your specific needs. And as independent agents, we will compare the cost of that coverage with several insurance companies to ensure you pay the lowest premium for solid coverage.

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