08/ 04/ 2006
The scorching heat has been a nuisance––and a danger––this summer but, unfortunately, it's not the only risk faced by those who work outside. Snakes, rodents and insects pose a threat to those in industries whose work puts employees outdoors the majority of the time, including those in construction, landscaping, farming, utility and wildlife industries. It's important for you to educate your employees of these potential hazards, and what they can do to avoid and treat injuries should they occur.
Snakes
Even if they are not poisonous, snakebites can be painful and cause blood infections if not treated properly. If working in an area that could contain snakes, OSHA recommends the following precautions:
- If removing debris, watch where you place your hands and feet. Wear heavy gloves.
- Wear boots at least 10 inches high.
- Watch for snakes sunning on fallen trees, limbs or other debris.
- A snake's striking distance is about half of the snake's total length, so step back and allow it to proceed if you come across one.
- If bitten, note the color and shape of the snake's head to help with your treatment.
- Do not cut the wound or attempt to suck out venom. Lay the person down so that the bite is below heart level and cover the bite with a clean, dry dressing.
- Keep bite victims still and calm to slow the spread of venom in case the snake is poisonous. Seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Insects
For the most part, bugs mainly present an annoyance for outside workers. However, some can carry dangerous diseases, and anyone planning to be outside for an extended period of time––especially in wooded areas or locations with high grass––should take precautions.
- Use an insect repellent that contains DEET. The percent of concentration of DEET in a repellent is related to the length of time it protects; 30 percent is safe for adults.
- Wear the right clothing. Even though it's hot outside, wear long pants, socks and long-sleeved shirts to protect your skin from insect bites.
- Avoid areas with standing water. Mosquitoes, which can carry the West Nile virus, breed in standing water. If you must work in an area with standing water, cover as much of your skin as possible and reapply insect repellent as directed.
- Check for ticks. After working outside, check yourself thoroughly for ticks, which can carry Lyme disease or Rocky Mountain spotted fever, depending on what area of the country in which you are working. If you find one stuck to you, be sure to pull it out with tweezers, getting the entire body, head and mouth. Do not try to pick or scrape it off with your fingers, as you might leave behind part of the tick that can cause an infection.
Rodents
Both dead and live animals can spread disease, and it's important to avoid contact with any wild or stray animals. If you work in an industry where you must come into contact with such animals, OSHA recommends wearing heavy gloves at all times. Wash your hands regularly, and if bitten or scratched, seek medical attention immediately.
By educating your employees about the risks posed by snakes, insects and rodents, you will help them avoid any serious illness or injury while working outside. For more helpful tips, visit www.OHSA.gov.
