Toolbox Talk: Lightning & Severe Weather

Why it matters

Lightning can strike from miles away. High winds, hail and tornadoes endanger workers on roofs, scaffolds, cranes and in the open.

Talking points

• When thunder roars, go indoors: if you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck. Go to a building or a hard-topped vehicle.
• The 30-30 rule: if the time between the flash and the bang is 30 seconds or less, take shelter. Wait 30 minutes after the last thunder to go back.
• Stay away from tall, isolated objects and metal: don't shelter under trees, in open equipment cabs or near cranes and scaffolds.
• Check the forecast: watch weather alerts, and agree on the stop-work triggers before the storm.
• High winds: stop work on roofs, scaffolds, lifts and cranes when winds exceed the limits. Secure loose materials and equipment.
• Have a shelter plan: know where to go, how to alert the crew and how to do a headcount after.

Ask the crew

1. What does the forecast say for today?
2. Where is our nearest safe shelter?
3. Who calls the stop-work and how do we get the message to everyone?

Before we start work today: Check the forecast and agree on the shelter location and the trigger to stop work.

Who attended

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Source: National Weather Service: Lightning safety. General safety information only, not legal advice; follow your employer’s program, the manufacturer’s instructions and current regulations. Keep signed sheets with your safety records. FirstDayTraining.com · Todd Allyn Media Inc.