Do You Have to Work During the Hurricane?

There are some business types that must remain open during impending bad weather including predicted hurricanes. While many locations can be evacuated and shut down for safety, it is not always a possibility or an easy process for some industries such as law enforcement, hospitals, nursing homes, and power company employees. If your chosen field of employment goes full steam ahead even during the most dire circumstances, it is important you are well aware of the protocol necessary for handling dangerous events.

Company owners and their supervisory staff should already have a plan in place for emergency situations like hurricanes, floods, or tornados. These emergency plans should not be kept locked up in secret but should be executed in routine drills and practices so everyone on-site will know what to do if disaster strikes. Panic and chaos are only going to increase the number of fatalities and injuries during such events.

If you are a worker who must ride out the storm on the clock, it is important to know and follow the protocol to keep order and calm through the situation. It can be devastating to be away from loved ones during such a time but maintaining focus will be required of you to get the job done right.

It will be important to be personally prepared for the event by ensuring you have what you need to survive. Management should already provide the basic essentials for health and safety. Personal items including medications, extra clothing, blankets, food, bottled water, flashlights, batteries, and items helpful for passing the time can make a tremendous difference if you are stuck in one place for a long period of time. If you know in advance you will be at work when the hurricane hits, come to work prepared.

While no one can predict exactly when disasters of nature may strike, there is often at least some warning. If you were injured at work during a hurricane due to the negligence of your employer, it is important to discuss the specifics with a qualified workers compensation attorney. Contact our office toll free at 888-799-3918 or use our online contact form for more details.