Sometimes part-time or seasonal workers are asked to do things that are marginally or totally unsafe. It seems that employers will task seasonal workers with jobs that permanents don't like to do or have flat out refused to do. Since seasonal workers in some states don't have to be insured in the same way as permanents, they are not always treated as fairly or compassionately and they may be risking their lives!
For example, no one likes to clean the restrooms in an RV park, but more often than not the seasonal people get that job.
A Nick Lampson quote says, "There is nothing nobler than risking your life for your country." .... but for a clean toilet?
Work Safety Tips
Has anyone ever told these people that before they go mucking about in someone else's waste, they should get and use personal protective gear, such as
Or that Tetanus vaccinations should be up to date, along with polio, typhoid fever, and Hepatitis A and B? Not likely. In fact, even working for the state of Oregon cleaning restrooms in their parks, I was not told about this.
CLICK HERE for a website that shows what vaccinations you could need as an adult.
For example, no one likes to clean the restrooms in an RV park, but more often than not the seasonal people get that job.
A Nick Lampson quote says, "There is nothing nobler than risking your life for your country." .... but for a clean toilet?
Work Safety Tips
Has anyone ever told these people that before they go mucking about in someone else's waste, they should get and use personal protective gear, such as
- Goggles: to protect eyes from splashes of human waste or sewage.
- Protective face mask or splash-proof face shield: to protect nose and mouth from splashes of human waste or sewage.
- Liquid-repellent coveralls: to keep human waste or sewage off clothing.
- Waterproof gloves: to prevent exposure to human waste or sewage.
- Rubber boots: to prevent exposure to human waste or sewage.
Or that Tetanus vaccinations should be up to date, along with polio, typhoid fever, and Hepatitis A and B? Not likely. In fact, even working for the state of Oregon cleaning restrooms in their parks, I was not told about this.
CLICK HERE for a website that shows what vaccinations you could need as an adult.
There are other hazards of which seasonal employees should be aware. Most parts of the country have some poisonous creepy crawly what would like to bite you when you move that pile of trash. Oh poison ivy and oak are also waiting to cause people trouble. Snakes...enough said. Watch for rickety ladders and old rusty tools...and nails. I could go on and on...
Here is something to ponder - weather related workplace safety.
I ran across these photos of an RV park in New Braunfels, Texas after a recent storm. A beautiful RV park near a small river that became a huge river in a matter of minutes. Usually, workcampers will be given the least choice spot, or the one furthest away from the entrance. Be aware. Look at what dangers could be present and always be ready to abandon ship if need be and get out quickly. If the spot they give you, doesn't suit you, you can always leave.
Just last winter we self-evacuated because of rising flood waters and our employers were not too happy about it. But it wasn't worth our life or destroying our RV. If this should happen to you, be sure to let your employers know where you are and that you are safe and when or if you will be returning.
Here is something to ponder - weather related workplace safety.
I ran across these photos of an RV park in New Braunfels, Texas after a recent storm. A beautiful RV park near a small river that became a huge river in a matter of minutes. Usually, workcampers will be given the least choice spot, or the one furthest away from the entrance. Be aware. Look at what dangers could be present and always be ready to abandon ship if need be and get out quickly. If the spot they give you, doesn't suit you, you can always leave.
Just last winter we self-evacuated because of rising flood waters and our employers were not too happy about it. But it wasn't worth our life or destroying our RV. If this should happen to you, be sure to let your employers know where you are and that you are safe and when or if you will be returning.
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The point is, folks, be aware and don't let employers risk your life, marginalize your safety or take advantage of you. Remember our work safety tips. There is always another seasonal job, just down the road.
