The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has recently announced three new focus areas targeting hazards in certain specified work environments. These include: winter storm months, chemical facilities, and formaldehyde exposure in the hair product/salon industry.

Employee Protection During Winter Storms

OSHA has created a webpage to help protect employees from hazards they may face during winter storm response and recovery operations. The webpage provides guidance on how employers and employees involved in cleanup and recovery operations can recognize snowstorm-related hazards and the necessary steps that you must take to keep your employees safe while working in these conditions. The page includes guidance for employees clearing heavy snow in front of workplaces and from rooftops; employees encountering downed power lines or traveling on icy roads; and utility employees restoring power after winter storms.