Key points
- Outdoor workers are exposed to many types of hazards due to their work.
- Employers should train outdoor workers on identifying hazards and how to prevent and control their exposures.
Hazards to Outdoor Workers
Outdoor workers are exposed to many hazards depending on their type of work, geographic region, season, and duration of time outside.
Employers should train outdoor workers about their workplace hazards. Training should include hazard identification and recommendations for preventing and controlling exposures.
Categories
Physical hazards
Physical hazards to outdoor workers may include
- Extreme heat, which can cause heat stroke or heat exhaustion.
- Extreme cold, which can cause hypothermia or frostbite.
- Noise, which can cause permanent hearing loss.
- Sun exposure, which can cause sunburns or skin cancer.
- Wildland fire smoke, which can impact workers' health.
Biological hazards
Biological hazards include vector-borne diseases, venomous wildlife and insects, and poisonous plants.
Vector-borne diseases
Vector-borne diseases may be spread to workers by insects, such as mosquitoes or ticks. When a mosquito or tick bites a worker, it may transfer a disease-causing agent, such as a parasite, bacterium, or virus.
Venomous wildlife and insects
Venomous snakes, venomous spiders, scorpions, and stinging insects can be found throughout various geographic regions. They are especially dangerous to workers who have allergies to the animal.
Poisonous plants
Poisonous plants can cause allergic reactions if their oils come in contact with skin. These plants can also be dangerous if burned and their toxins are inhaled.
Additional hazards
Outdoor workers may encounter other hazards depending on their specific job tasks. They may be exposed to pesticides or other chemical hazards, traumatic injury hazards, or other safety and health hazards.