Warning as many workers face ‘increased hazards’

PEOPLE returning to work in the aftermath of Storm Emma should exercise caution when it comes to repairing any damage, the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has warned.

“After such an extreme weather event many people will be facing conditions that they are not used to working in. With the likelihood of heavy rain and flooding to come, I would call on all employers and employees to put personal safety first at all times,” said Martin O’Halloran, chief executive of the HSA.

Driving and storm repair work can be very hazardous, and the risk of flooding also creates potential dangers.

“Many workers, particularly those involved in storm repair, construction, farming and transportation, will be facing increased hazards,” said Mr O’Halloran. “After previous extreme weather events there were a number of workplace fatalities that occurred due to falls from a height. Any work at height, such as repair of overhead lines or the roofs of farm buildings, should be undertaken with extreme caution in mind,” the HSA warned.

Roof repairs should only be done after snow and ice has been cleared and a risk assessment has been carried out, it said.

“All work at height must be properly planned and organised, the correct equipment should be used, and anyone working at height must be competent to do so,” said Mr O’Halloran.

Work in the agriculture sector will be severely hampered by the snow and ice, and the HSA warned farmers they should make their personal safety paramount. Farmers working in fields should have a charged phone, wear a high-visibility jacket and footwear with good grips, and tell someone when they will return.