How to Stay Safe at Work Over the Holidays

The holidays are a fantastic time of year, but they are also swamped with obligations and commitments. People working in the food industry and retail are particularly busy this time of year, with many locations hiring additional people to help support the holiday rush. If you are working harder right now than you usually do, it is essential to keep your own safety in mind. Between the global pandemic, inclement weather, and general holiday stress, your safety is vital to keep in mind. 

Below are several tips for keeping yourself safe at work over the holidays:

• Be cautious during times of bad weather. This time of year is rainy and snowy in many places, which makes driving conditions more hazardous. Take care to drive more carefully when conditions worsen. If you need to leave a bit earlier to account for a slower drive time or call in because you cannot safely report to work, you should do so. 
• Take COVID-19 precautions very seriously. The COVID-19 infection rate has worsened worldwide due to colder weather and an uptick in social gatherings. If you work outside of the home, it is more important than ever to be vigilant with mask requirements and sanitation procedures. This is not the time to slip up and put yourself at risk. Wear your mask for the entirety of your shift, do not touch your face, and change out of work clothes the moment you get home.
• Watch out for surly or potentially dangerous customers. Emotions tend to run high around the holidays, and sometimes unreasonable people lose their cool. It is not acceptable behavior, but it is a reality that foodservice and retail workers should be prepared for. You do not want someone to take their frustration out on you. If you are a part of an escalating situation, it is best to remove yourself entirely to avoid worsening conditions.
• Never drink and drive. Drinking is a large part of most holiday celebrations. If you choose to indulge, do not get behind the wheel of a car. 

We hope that everyone has a happy and safe holiday season. If you wind up injured, know that the Para Los Trabajadores legal team is firmly on your side. Call us anytime for help and support.