With storm season upon us, it’s important to prepare in advance for severe weather, such as storms, hurricanes, tornados, floods and wildfires. The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) offers the following tips to help construction executives be ready before dangerous weather strikes.
Keep a clean worksite
Strong winds can lift and throw equipment and materials. Lock up and secure equipment, as well as construction materials, to eliminate hazards.
Consider the damage a storm might cause and what equipment might be needed for clean-up.
Accessing all areas of a jobsite for an assessment after a storm can be tough if trees come down, power is turned off and debris accumulates.
Chainsaws, pruners, generators, water pumps or utility type vehicles (UTV) could be needed.
Refresh the team on safe handling procedures.
Before a storm hits is the best time to review safety procedures and operating manuals for outdoor power equipment that may be needed for cleanup, especially if the equipment is not used on a daily basis. It is recommended that anyone operating a utility task vehicle take a safety course before a storm strikes, and for all workers to be familiar with safety procedures for generators, chain saws and other outdoor power equipment.
Keep the right fuel on-site and charge all batteries.
Ensure all batteries are charged, and stock up on fuel needed before the storm. Keep fuel in approved containers, as gas stations may be closed after a major event. Use E10 or less fuel for gasoline-powered outdoor power equipment that requires it, and use a fuel stabilizer if it’s going to sit for any period of time. For more information on proper fueling, visit www.LookBeforeYouPump.com.
Collect safety gear.
Eye and ear protection, sturdy shoes, hard hats, reflective clothing and work gloves will be important. The CDC has useful information on personal protective equipment and clothing for flood cleanup that is applicable to other situations. Also, check the FDA’s page on face masks and respirators.
Keep safety gear and outdoor power equipment in an accessible location.
Keep supplies where they can be easily accessed after a storm. You don’t want to struggle to get to the equipment and safety gear after the storm.
Remain calm and use common sense.
Clearheaded thinking and smart decision-making will help the team make smart choices. This is no time to rush. Take time to think through a strategy for clean-up efforts.
Pay attention to the team’s health.
Storm cleanup can be taxing on the body and the spirit. Do not allow others to operate power equipment when they are tired or overly fatigued. Encourage the team to drink plenty of water and take regular breaks.
Follow safety procedures when using pole saws and pole pruners.
The operator should keep a firm footing on the ground. A safety zone should be observed, which means keeping bystanders and power lines (those above and any that might have fallen down) at least 50 feet away from the work area.
Observe manufacturer’s guidelines when using chainsaws.
The operator should always stand with his or her weight on both feet, and adjust their stance so the operator is angled away from the blade. The operator should hold the chainsaw with both hands and anticipate kickback, which may happen when the moving chain at the tip of the guide bar touches an object, or when the wood closes in and pinches the saw chain in the cut. The operator should never over-reach or cut anything above shoulder height. It is best to always have a planned retreat path if something falls.
Operate UTVs with caution.
The team may use these handy vehicles on site regularly, but a storm can introduce hidden hazards. Keep the vehicle stable and drive safely. Do not turn the vehicle mid-slope or while on a hill. It is important to keep hands, arms, legs and feet inside the UTV at all times.
Follow directions when using water pumps.
Never operate a centrifugal pump without water in the pump casing. Maintain the pump with inspections and proper fueling. Make sure all safety guards and shields are in place while operating it.
Use best practices when using generators.
Never place a generator inside a building or use in an enclosed area. Be sure to place a generator outside and away from windows, doors and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors—and be sure to use a commercial-grade power cord. For added safety, install a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector in any worksite buildings before a storm. The alarm will sound if any carbon monoxide comes in and alert the occupants. Keep the generator dry and don’t use it in wet conditions without first covering it. Model-specific tents or generator covers are available at home centers and hardware stores or online.
