What is the primary concern when working outdoors during severe weather?

When working outdoors during severe weather, the primary concern is your own safety. Severe weather conditions, such as high winds, heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and extreme temperatures, pose direct risks to individuals. These hazards can lead to physical injuries, health complications, and potentially life-threatening situations.

For example, lightning during a thunderstorm can strike workers, while heavy winds can topple equipment or cause falling debris. Extreme temperatures can lead to heat exhaustion or hypothermia, both of which could be detrimental to health. Additionally, bodily injuries can occur from slips and falls due to wet or icy surfaces. Prioritizing safety in such environments is essential to prevent accidents and ensure the well-being of all personnel involved.

While worker fatigue, equipment malfunction, and environmental hazards are important considerations in the context of severe weather, they ultimately stem from the broader concern of ensuring safety. Addressing your own safety effectively can help mitigate the risks associated with these other concerns as well.