Winter can bring unique challenges for pest control technicians, from icy surfaces to cold temperatures and unpredictable weather conditions. While pests don't take the season off, it’s essential for technicians to prioritize safety while delivering top-notch service.
To maintain good safety protocols during the winter, PestSure offers the following best practices to add to your winter training sessions.
Dress for the Weather
Wearing the right clothing is the first step to staying safe and comfortable in cold conditions.
- Layer Up - Use moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer layers. This combination helps regulate body temperature while keeping you dry.
- Insulated Gloves - Protect your hands with gloves that provide warmth without sacrificing dexterity for handling tools and equipment.
- Non-Slip Boots - Invest in insulated, waterproof boots with slip-resistant soles to navigate icy or wet surfaces safely.
- Hats and Neck Protection - A beanie or thermal hat and a scarf or gaiter help retain body heat, which is crucial when working outdoors.
Stay Alert to Weather Conditions
Weather can change quickly in the winter, so it's essential to stay informed.
- Monitor the Forecast - Check weather updates before heading to your job site to prepare for snow, rain, or extreme cold.
- Plan Accordingly - Adjust schedules to avoid driving or working during severe weather conditions.
- Be Aware of Daylight Hours - Shorter days mean reduced visibility, so plan routes accordingly.
Pay Attention to Your Driving
Pest control technicians often travel between sites, and winter driving can be hazardous.
- Inspect Your Vehicle - Check tires, brakes, windshield wipers, and fluid levels regularly. Ensure your vehicle is equipped with winter tires for better traction.
- Stock Emergency Supplies - Keep a winter emergency kit in your vehicle with essentials like a blanket, flashlight, jumper cables, first aid supplies, and extra water and snacks.
- Slow Down - Drive cautiously and allow extra time to reach your destination. Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns on icy roads.
Prevent Slips, Trips, and Falls
Icy and snowy conditions significantly increase the risk of slipping or falling.
- Clear Walkways - If necessary, take time to shovel or spread salt on slippery paths before carrying equipment.
- Use Caution on Ladders - Ensure ladders are stable and free of ice before climbing. Wear shoes with good grip and avoid working at heights in poor weather. Avoid accessing any ice covered elevated sloped surface.
- Walk Carefully - Take short, deliberate steps on icy surfaces, and use handrails where available.
Protect Against Hypothermia and Frostbite
Prolonged exposure to the cold can lead to serious health risks.
- Take Breaks Indoors - Warm up in a heated area regularly to prevent your body temperature from dropping too low.
- Watch for Warning Signs - Symptoms of frostbite include numbness, tingling, or discoloration of the skin, while hypothermia can cause shivering, confusion, or fatigue. Seek immediate medical attention if these occur.
- Stay Dry - Wet clothing can accelerate heat loss, so keep spare clothes on hand in case you get wet.
Safe Chemical Handling
Cold temperatures can affect pest control products, and technicians must adapt their handling practices.
- Check Product Labels - Some chemicals may have specific temperature storage requirements to ensure efficacy and safety.
- Warm Storage for Equipment - Avoid leaving chemical solutions or tools in vehicles overnight where they might freeze or degrade.
- Protect Yourself – When necessary wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
Prioritize Ergonomics in Winter Work
Heavy clothing and slippery conditions can make tasks more physically demanding.
- Lift Properly - Use your legs, not your back, to lift heavy equipment, and avoid twisting motions when carrying items.
- Adjust Work Pace - Work at a steady pace to reduce strain and prevent accidents caused by rushing.
Stay Hydrated and Nourished
It’s easy to forget about hydration in cold weather, but staying fueled is critical for energy and safety.
- Drink Water Regularly - Cold weather can suppress thirst, so set reminders to drink water throughout the day.
- Eat Warm, Nutritious Meals - High-energy snacks and meals can help keep your body warm and provide the stamina needed for demanding tasks.
Stay in Touch with Your Team
Good communication is vital, especially in winter when weather and road conditions can be hazardous.
- Safely Use Mobile Phones/Tablets - Stay in touch with your team in case of delays, emergencies, or changing site conditions. Remember to pull over to a safe area before calling, texting or checking email – distracted driving can be more dangerous than ice and snow.
PestSure – Your Partner in Safety
Founded in 1980, PestSure is the only insurance and risk management provider that is 100 percent dedicated to the pest management industry. It offers industry professionals a full suite of insurance, risk management, and safety training and education offerings.
PestSure provides insurance, safety and risk management consulting to pest management companies representing $2 billion in revenue, $750 million in payroll and more than 16,500 service vehicles. The program is administered by Alliant Insurance Services.
Call 888.984.3813 or visit our contact page for more information.