March 1 marked the onset of the severe weather season across the central United States, bringing with it devastation that has swiftly dominated news headlines.
With over a half dozen tornadoes reported across six states just in the past week, the critical importance of tornado preparedness has never been more evident. Particularly hard-hit were Ohio and Kentucky, where the impact was stark: three lives tragically lost in Ohio, alongside dozens of injuries and extensive damage to both business and residential properties.
This alarming start underscores the urgent need for comprehensive tornado preparedness strategies to safeguard communities and workplaces alike.
Looking back to 2023, there were 1,450 reported tornadoes and 1,402 confirmed tornadoes.
For the 2024 tornado season, AccuWeather is predicting 1,250 to 1,375 tornadoes, which is above the historical average of 1,225, but fewer than in 2023.
If your business were hit by a tornado tonight, would your workers be safe? Here’s how to keep your workplace and employees safe.
While tornadoes can occur at any time and in any place in the U.S., most occur during the months of March, April and May, often referred to as “Tornado Season.”
In fact, 55% of annual tornadoes occur during these months. But it isn’t just the volume of tornadoes that makes this time of year so dangerous, the intensity is at its peak as well, resulting in more fatalities and damage.
Oftentimes, tornadoes strike without warning making knowing all the signs and being prepared a must to help reduce the likelihood of employee injuries or fatalities.
Unfortunately, most businesses do not have a “game plan” in their employee handbook for worst-case scenarios, like tornadoes. But without a disaster preparedness plan, it may mean negligence on your behalf, which equates to liability and possible lawsuits. Find out what to consider when creating your business’ emergency plan in this popular blog post.
Know where employees will go in all situations. While the safest place is in an underground tornado shelter or basement, sometimes it’s not an option. According to the Red Cross, other places to go when a tornado warning has been issued include:
Employees should know what the alarm system will be, how they are notified, and where to seek shelter.
RELATED: When Disaster Strikes, Eight Steps to Prepare Your Business >>
If severe weather is predicted for your area creating conditions favorable for tornadoes, the local news or the National Weather Service should be monitored for watches and warnings. Employees should be regularly updated on weather conditions via email, text or other methods.
Always have a primary communication method and a secondary method.
While community warning systems help to alert of a possible tornado, sirens should never be the sole warning system used by your workplace.
Always wear adequate protective gear when handling or moving through debris.
According to OSHA, employers are responsible for the safety and health of their workers and for providing a safe and healthful workplace. Employers are required to protect workers from the anticipated hazards associated with severe weather events, like tornadoes.
Severe weather poses an ongoing risk to any workplace environment. However, with Axcet's specialized expertise in risk management, you can ensure the safety of your employees. Our team of safety and risk management consultants is equipped to assist you in creating comprehensive fire and tornado drill plans.
Not only that, but we will actively collaborate with you to conduct practice drills, ensuring preparedness for any emergency. Prioritize the well-being of your workforce by partnering with Axcet. Discover how our expert PEO solutions can protect your workplace; schedule a consultation today.
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