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Arkansas worker safety is an important issue to keep in mind at this time of year. Spring storms can produce power outages, and power outages can result in injuries from improper planning or failures in back-up equipments.

To reduce the chance of workplace injuries, every employer should have a worker safety plan. The worker safety plan should include every aspect of worker safety, but should especially deal with what to do in case of a power outage, which can happen frequently during the spring. Safety plans should have tips that can be used within the business place and at home.

Heating a business or home is a consideration during a power outage. Often people use wood-burning stoves and fireplaces. These should always be inspected for proper installation. Proper ventilation is important for Arkansas spring worker safety. Fueled heaters should never be used in unventilated spaces, and open ovens, gas ranges for outdoor use, propane heaters for outdoor use, and charcoal grills should never be used to heat businesses and homes.

There are certain brands of gas and propane heaters that can be used indoors in large areas. They are a popular choice to heat businesses during a power outage. However, it’s important to monitor these types of heating equipment during use in the workplace. Ice storms, and other spring storms, can damage propane and natural gas equipment. If you smell or hear blowing gas or if gas appliances have abnormally high flames or cease to work, contact your gas supplier immediately. For safety reasons, never place or store a propane cylinder in an enclosed area indoors such as a garage or basement.

Generators are popular for businesses during interruptions in power. A licensed electrician should always hookup a generator because improperly connected generators create electrocution risks for utility line workers and others due to back feed of electricity through normal distribution wiring. Reduce fire risks and make sure proper installation procedures are followed.

Be sure to have a battery-operated radio at work, and make sure smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms are working.

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