Commercial snow removal providers are constantly in high demand in Minnesota. They use the most high-tech equipment to get their jobs done quickly, efficiently and with minimal bodily injury to themselves. There are still numerous dangers to working in the snow plow industry, however.
The hazards of snow removal
Removing snow from roads, sidewalks, driveways and bridges is straightforward but still risky. The hazards of snow removal occupations include severe storms, equipment malfunctions, truck accidents, back or wrist injuries and many other dangers. The most problematic accidents occur when using snowplow equipment and vehicles collide with pedestrians.
Equipment accidents
Most snow removal workers use motorized equipment to perform their tasks. They may attach a plow to the front of the vehicle or use hand-pushed plows that are similar to lawnmowers. Some people use battery-powered or electric snow shovels. Although the work is fast and efficient, many people use their power tools incorrectly because they lack knowledge in using them or are impatient to get the job done quickly.
Vehicle accidents
In harsh winter conditions, snowplow trucks are more likely to get into accidents than regular vehicles. A snow removal worker has to drive safely through busy streets and move slowly enough to remove as much snow as possible. A snowplow truck faces the same risks as any other vehicle on the road during winter. There’s the additional risk that its plow could damage nearby vehicles or buildings.
Resources to help snow removal providers
The snowplow industry promotes the use of high-tech snow removal tools and safety techniques as recommended by OSHA. In addition, these professionals are protected for when they encounter accidents and serious injuries. Injured snow removal workers may be entitled to workers’ comp funds for however long they did not work and can no longer work.
