Summer Bites

Insects and their relatives can make your job unpleasant.

If you work outdoors you may have to fend off bees, wasps, stinging ants, mosquitoes and other pests on occasion.  While most of these creatures can be simply a nuisance, a few are capable of delivering painful and even fatal stings or bites.

These pests can be found in confined spaces, untended buildings or rarely used areas of the plant, as well as demolition and construction sites and other locales.

How can you protect yourself against these hazards?  Here are some suggestions:

• Wear protective clothing as required. Long sleeved shirts, pants tucked into boots, a hat and gloves can keep insects away from you. 
• Use an effective insect repellent as required.  In some cases, a qualified exterminator should be called to spray the infested area before workers enter.
• Get medical help immediately if you are bitten by a black widow or brown recluse, or if you have a severe reaction to any spider bite.

Besides poisoning and spreading disease, insects can contribute to injuries by startling or distracting the worker.  Be prepared for these little pests!