In November, seasonal changes create unique safety concerns, making topics like winter weather preparation, fire prevention, and holiday safety especially relevant. Work and/or School-specific risks, including fatigue management and handling hazardous materials, are also important. Seasonal and weather-related topics

• Winter weather preparation: Prepare for the shift to colder temperatures and potentially hazardous conditions.
  • Review safe driving procedures for rain, fog, ice, and snow.
  • Discuss cold weather injury prevention, such as hypothermia and frostbite.
  • Emphasize the need for proper footwear and warm clothing.
• Daylight savings and fatigue: With the change back to Standard Time: 🕑WE FALL BACK AN HOUR NOVEMBER 2ND AT 2:00AM, the shorter days and altered sleep schedules can affect alertness.
  • Provide resources on fatigue management and stress reduction.
  • Remind students to get adequate sleep to ensure they are rested on the job.
• Fire prevention: As people begin using heating systems and fireplaces, the risk of fire increases.
  • Review the location and use of fire extinguishers.
  • Check that smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working correctly.
  • Remind everyone to keep flammable materials away from heat sources.

• Holiday season safety: Address the unique hazards of the holiday season, from cooking to decorating.
  • Kitchen safety: Review safe cooking practices, especially if there will be workplace celebrations.
  • Travel safety: Promote safe driving for those traveling to visit family and friends.
  • Decoration safety: Discuss the safe use of ladders, electrical cords, and other decorations to prevent falls and electrical fires.
• Holiday mental wellness: The holiday season can be stressful for many.
  • Encourage employees to take time off and manage their workload to reduce burnout.
  • Provide resources for mental health support.

• Slip, trip, and fall prevention: Poor lighting, wet floors, and autumn leaves can all increase the risk of falls.
  • Stress the importance of cleaning up spills immediately and maintaining clear walkways.
  • Remind employees to watch for changing floor conditions when entering buildings.
• Ergonomics: For many, the change of seasons means more time spent indoors.
  • Review proper posture and workstation setup to prevent strain and injury.
  • Encourage workers to take regular breaks to stretch and move around.
• Hazardous materials: With colder weather, some hazardous materials might need to be stored or handled differently.
  • Review proper storage and handling procedures for all chemicals.
  • Ensure all necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) is available and used correctly.
• Cybersecurity: The increase in online shopping and holiday promotions makes this a good time to discuss cybersecurity.
  • Remind others to be cautious of phishing emails, especially those related to package delivery or holiday deals.
  • Review user policies on internet usage and data security.