Syosset Central School District Custodian Mitchell Recek prepares to re-sand the walkways around the school.
SYOSSET — For the custodial crew at Syosset Central School District, inclement weather means that workers will add extra duties to their already packed schedule maintaining school property.
The members’ ice and snow removal efforts can lead them to spend more than one hour in freezing temperatures.
To combat the cold, CSEA members wear thermal underwear and other additional layers of clothing, as needed. District management provides the workers with jackets and boots.
To prevent medical emergencies, workers also stay hydrated to compensate for the water they’re losing by sweating, with one exception.
“Never drink anything hot when it’s freezing outside,” said Syosset Central School District Custodian Mitchell Recek. “When it’s very cold outside, that hot water is a shock to your system. After you go inside and warm up a little bit, it’s fine, but while you’re outside working, you should stay away from it.”
Members also advise those working outside to stretch to avoid injury. They also recommend working at a determined, yet steady, pace to avoid overextending oneself.
The workers also take short breaks to warm up, which can prevent cold-related illness. They also advise people to never work alone in extreme weather conditions.
“If you do end up getting hurt or suffering a medical emergency, you’ll need someone there to help you,” said Recek.
— Wendi Bowie
To learn more about working safely in cold weather, visit tinyurl.com/OSHA-winter for more information.
