While many people think ski resorts only operate during winter months, more and more resorts are operating year-round, which comes with different hazards. Below are some guidelines to help keep your employees safe during summer operations.
 
Insect and Animal Bites

  • Wear appropriate clothing to avoid insect bites (lightweight clothing with long sleeves, pants, sturdy boots, and gloves, if necessary).
  • Do not approach wildlife.
  • Consider using insect repellent that contains Deet to prevent ticks.
  • Know and understand the signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction from insects.
  • Train someone on staff on how to provide proper first aid.

ATV and UTV Safety

  • All employees should be trained on how to operate ATVs and/or UTVs before using them.
  • Read and follow all manufacturer instructions.
  • Provide helmets for all employees who operate ATVs and UTVs.
  • Ensure all employees wear seatbelts, when provided.
  • Inspect and maintain all motorized vehicles.

Chainsaw Use

  • Only let trained and experienced employees use chainsaws.
  • Train workers regularly on chainsaw safety and document all training conducted.
  • Provide the proper PPE (eye protection, hearing protection, foot protection, head protection, and leg protection, such as protective chaps) to reduce the severity of a chainsaw injury.
  • Secure the area around trees and other deadfall to prevent unsuspected guests or other resort employees from entering the work zone.

Severe Weather

  • Check weather forecasts before starting an outdoor project that is in a remote area.
  • Have an action plan in place, including communication operation, to notify employees of possible severe weather.
  • If a thunder or lightning storm hits, instruct employees to:
    • Head to the nearest building.
    • Avoid open areas and tops of hills.
    • Not use cell phones.
    • Not touch metal.
    • Not seek shelter under a tree.
    • If lightning is close by, make yourself as small as possible by crouching down, keeping your head down, and pulling your feet as close to your body as you can. Do not lie down; you want to make yourself as small as possible to give the lightning the smallest target. Keep your hands over your ears to protect your hearing.
    • Stay away from others so a lightning bolt cannot skip from one person to another.
    • Stay inside for 30 minutes after you hear the last clap of thunder.

 
Preventing Heat-Related Illness

  • Know the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses and provide the necessary first aid if needed.
    • Heat exhaustion
      • Headaches, dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting
      • Weakness and moist skin
      • Mood changes, such as irritability or confusion
      • Upset stomach or vomiting
  • Heat stroke
    • Dry, hot skin with no sweating
    • Mental confusion or loss of consciousness
    • Seizures or convulsions
  • Monitor yourself and coworkers.
  • Block out direct sun by wearing lightweight, light colored, loose-fitting clothes.
  • Wear sunglasses or dark-shaded safety glasses to prevent UV rays from damaging your eyes.
  • Use cooling fans or air conditioning, rest regularly.
  • Drink lots of water (about one cup every 15 minutes).
  • Avoid alcohol, caffeinated or energy drinks, and heavy meals while working in the sun.
  • Call 911 if you suspect someone has heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

Strains and Sprains Prevention

  • Train workers who lift heavy, awkward equipment on proper lifting techniques.
  • Try not to lift or reach your arms over your head for long periods.
  • Train employees on proper stretching techniques. Encourage employees to stretch in the morning before their shift, after lunch, and when they feel muscle fatigue.
  • Periodically rotate employees who frequently lift and carry equipment to prevent muscle fatigue.
  • If possible, use mechanical assists, such as forklifts and cranes, to help move heavy objects.