--- title: OSHA urges employers, workers to be safe when removing snow description: OSHA, safety image: https://www.thechecker.net/hs-fs/hub/245203/file-2596931615.jpg --- [![the-checker-grey-300](https://www.thechecker.net/hubfs/the-checker-grey-300.png) ](https://www.thechecker.net/) [ Login ](https://store.thechecker.net/login.php) [ GET A DEMO ](https://www.thechecker.net/demo) 1 min read ## [OSHA urges employers, workers to be safe when removing snow](https://www.thechecker.net/stories/blog/osha-urges-employers-workers-to-be-safe-when-removing-snow) by [Shawn Macpherson](https://www.thechecker.net/stories/blog/author/shawn-macpherson) ![](https://www.thechecker.net/hs-fs/hub/245203/file-2596931615.jpg) **OSHA urges employers, workers to be safe when removing snow** Washington – Although winter is coming to an end, OSHA is reminding employers and workers to be cautious when removing snow from roofs and other structures. Snow can cause a structure to collapse and obscure skylights that workers can fall through, according to an [OSHA hazard alert](http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001HHXjfX3jor1Q2W9EmndKHq8hu78bMmXDu8gD4wVMpSMG3Z4VvuUnHtThNrw-5mByiGQ36QPxeUpW_u4o8sPVc3jSeNwcbWssLkIW216DA-B0CWR2RDTax5EhvfjiqGYUlvQzPk9ATQw0hLq-v06bRfdq0zzRsVFSuJLqx2FcjajKVMq4GOMgrDMOunOqf3Ebj78Nm6ybx5Vp0guyyBl-kSJxgjF8mz2Z&c=VomNw6KnyTYDfkudQ0dnXQu-nGSfiJeOAXU1GT_zx3eZ0MGNBFeNAw==&ch=dA0CQHjT5kT_vEejJ17htN8H_2TcAobimOZMpUG4UytCwu0wVvAb1w==). Falls are the leading cause of worker deaths and injuries during rooftop snow removal, OSHA states. Additionally, power lines and snow-removal equipment can pose electrical hazards, and exposure to cold and physical exertion can result in injuries and illness. A [competent person](http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001HHXjfX3jor1Q2W9EmndKHq8hu78bMmXDu8gD4wVMpSMG3Z4VvuUnHtThNrw-5mByx_rw6QJsC27FNdLSprUnuQ7hji0noqY3bsw20ISU-Z9t9P_Ac0_jf2Fy65KOfDH9cq1UrtibnFGIQ07m_tG3ecL-8x1QzX1G6U-qbuBqYBG4Q_Ir4z2rJIqgIzHyNFDkHmUoWFQpB0bU6xU9-pjJHA==&c=VomNw6KnyTYDfkudQ0dnXQu-nGSfiJeOAXU1GT_zx3eZ0MGNBFeNAw==&ch=dA0CQHjT5kT_vEejJ17htN8H_2TcAobimOZMpUG4UytCwu0wVvAb1w==) should inspect a snow-covered surface to ensure it is safe for workers, the bulletin states. Employers should provide proper personal protective equipment – including personal fall arrest systems and non-slip boots – and ensure workers![bronte1509238_788394201245815_3919241448871767038_n](https://www.thechecker.net/hs-fs/hub/245203/file-2596931615.jpg) are trained in how to use them. OSHA offers the following guidance for safe snow removal: - Remove snow without workers climbing onto roofs. - Require workers to use fall protection equipment. - Ensure workers safely use ladders and aerial lifts. - Use ladders to apply de-icing materials. - From the ground, use snow rakes or drag lines. - [** ](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://www.thechecker.net/stories/blog/osha-urges-employers-workers-to-be-safe-when-removing-snow&title=OSHA%20urges%20employers,%20workers%20to%20be%20safe%20when%20removing%20snow&picture=http://cdn2.hubspot.net/hub/245203/file-2596931615-jpg/bronte1509238_788394201245815_3919241448871767038_n.jpg&description=OSHA,%20safety) - [**](https://twitter.com/share?source=https://www.thechecker.net/stories/blog/osha-urges-employers-workers-to-be-safe-when-removing-snow&text=OSHA%20urges%20employers,%20workers%20to%20be%20safe%20when%20removing%20snow%20-%20https://www.thechecker.net/stories/blog/osha-urges-employers-workers-to-be-safe-when-removing-snow) - [**](http://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https://www.thechecker.net/stories/blog/osha-urges-employers-workers-to-be-safe-when-removing-snow&title=OSHA%20urges%20employers,%20workers%20to%20be%20safe%20when%20removing%20snow&summary=OSHA,%20safety) ## Related Articles ## FREE eBOOK WHY INSPECT? 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