Gallagher Bassett urges OHS professionals to brace for storm season

Gallagher Bassett (GB) has warned occupational health and safety (OHS) professionals to prepare for the storm season, to reduce the risk of injuries and disruptions to their organisation.

GB said organisations should have an up-to-date disaster risk management plan to help them minimise damage, maintain business continuity, and ensure employees are out of harm’s way.

Here are some steps GB said will help organisations prepare for the storm season:

• Provide information on protective measures for standard clean-up hazards;
• Establish the likelihood of exposure to the hazard, and the consequences if exposed;
• Ascertain risks and establish control measures, using the hierarchy of controls; and
• Review the control measures to determine the effectiveness of the control implemented and to ensure a new risk hasn’t been introduced.

GB said it is also critical that organisations clean up after a storm or hazard event. Some steps may include:

• Staying away from any fallen powerlines, conductive material that may be lying around (such as street lights and electrical signs), and switchboards if they are damaged by fire, water, or if lightning is close;
• Reporting damaged, low, or fallen powerlines to emergency services;
• Listening to the local station for weather updates and advice;
• Avoid getting on the roof if there is a solar power generating system;
• Getting in touch with the local electrical distribution entity if power is lost; and 
• Using only a licensed electrical contractor to complete electrical work. 

Another thing that should be addressed in hazardous conditions are the increased chances of slip, trip, and fall injuries. To reduce the risk of injuries due to slips, trips, and falls, GB said organisations should:

• Ensure work areas have adequate lighting;
• Get employees to wear appropriate footwear with grip;
• Ensure work areas are as dry and clear as possible; and
• Avoid climbing on surfaces and objects and use necessary equipment such as ladders wherever it’s safe to do so.