Some Important Snow Removal Safety Tips To Follow

Every year, our streets and roofs are covered in thick blankets of snow, which while pretty can be hazardous. If left as it is, it forms wet slippery surfaces that cause accidents and injuries. That’s why snow removal should be a part of your plan for commercial property maintenance in Denver.

However, getting rid of snow isn’t as simple as shoveling it all away. People involved in snow removal are at the risk of injuring themselves. Working for hours in the snow can take its toll on the body causing back pain or even heart attack.

That’s why you need the right equipment and safety gear. Keep these precautions in mind when removing snow:

Consult Doctor

Working in the snow can take its toll on your body. Especially if you have underlying conditions or don’t exercise daily. Consult a doctor to know whether it’s too risky for you or not. If it is, consider hiring a local student looking for easy pocket money. Businesses should consider commercial snow removal services in Denver.

Dress Well

It’s important to stay warm while working during the snowy weather. Wear multiple layers of warm and light clothes to keep yourself warm. Put water-repellent clothing on top to prevent moisture from seeping in. Cover your hands, feet, ears and head with protective gears. Put on shoes with good traction to prevent slipping while working.

Start Early

Waiting for it to stop snowing will leave you with more snow to remove. The snow piles may create hard to remove surfaces. You should start snow removal early and do it frequently to avoid too much from building up. 

Maintain Clear Vision

Ensure that your hat and/or scarf do not block your vision. You should see the area where you work clearly. Look out for hidden patches of slippery or uneven surfaces while working.

Shoveling Safety Tips

Shoveling snow is a physically demanding activity, so you need to do a little warm-up before starting. This can prevent the straining of muscles. Don’t try to finish it all at once. Maintain a good pace and take frequent breaks to avoid exhaustion. Take a sip of water during breaks to prevent dehydration.

Avoid shovels that are too heavy or too long for you. It should be comfortable to use at your height. Use a shovel designed for snow removal. Space your hands on the handle for good leverage. While shoveling, try pushing the snow instead of lifting it. If you have to lift it, use the support of your legs instead of your back. 

Don’t throw the snow sideways or over your shoulders. Lift the snow in small amounts to avoid overexertion.

Precautions For Snowblowers

Snowblowers make removal simple but could cause serious injuries if you’re careless. Before the area gets snow deep, inspect it for objects that could clog the blower and remove it. Wear earplugs to prevent damage due to the noise. Keep children away from the machine. Supervise children younger than fifteen using it at all times.

Avoid touching the engine with bare skin as it could be hot. Never use your hands or feet to remove clogs from the chute. You can use other solid objects instead. Never refuel while the engine is hot and never start inside a shed. Watch out for the recoil when it starts. Read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

Plowing Safety Tips

Get good rest before your shift to avoid dozing off while plowing. Inspect your vehicle and plow before using it to ensure that everything is in order. Keep an emergency repair kit with you while plowing at all times. Follow traffic rules while on the job. Watch out for people, vehicles, animals and objects at all times. Don’t rely on mirrors, look in the direction you move.

Take breaks between work to avoid fatigue. Do not use the plow when transporting the vehicle. Let the hydraulics rest when the vehicle is parked.