Winter Tips for Construction Workers

Friday, March 8, 2013

Winter Tips for Construction Workers

Written by Malman Law, reviewed by Steve J. Malman.

No matter what field of construction you work in, every day you work in winter conditions could end with a trip to the office an Illinois workers compensation lawyer. Roofers and carpenters face some of the worst danger having to balance themselves high in the air on snow and ice covered lumber, but even HVAC workers can suffer from frostbite or a variety of symptoms. Although this winter has been somewhat mild to this point we have still experienced subzero wind chills and icy conditions which can spell doom for the blue collar workers of Chicago. These are the men and women who built this great city and the work they do should be praised by everyone who benefits by it.

Some precautions may seem obvious but a healthy reminder is never a bad thing. If you speak to any Chicago personal injury lawyer they will tell you knowledge will always breed an intelligent decision. That being said here are some advice to keep yourself safe:

• Always dress appropriately – 50% of your heat is lost through your head and hands
• Wear waterproof and insulated boots
• Remove snow/be mindful of snow accumulating on your boots
• Take shorter steps when necessary
• Pay close attention when walking in dangerous areas
• Work in pairs to keep an eye on one another

If you feel you are being forced to work under extreme conditions, you should always speak to the highest authority on the site. While it may seem unbelievable to the common civilian, construction workers suffer frostbite quite often and hypothermia is a possibility as well. They are often told to “tough it out” and if you find yourself a victim of frostbite you need to call an Illinois workers compensation lawyer after your shift is over. 

The law states you cannot be fired for filing a claim and a Chicago personal injury lawyer will use this law to get you the settlement you deserve. Being in top physical shape with full use of your limbs and extremities is vital to being productive on the job tomorrow and years down the road. Winter can be unforgiving, and if you need to fight for a workers compensation claim, your Illinois workers compensation lawyer will be unforgiving in winning your case for you.