Jorge Castanon, Safety Rep, FRSA-SIF - August 2026
Lightning is one of nature’s most powerful and unpredictable hazards. It often occurs with little warning and the risks are frequently underestimated. Each year, workers are injured or killed as a result of lightning strikes on jobsites.
When thunder roars, it is time to take immediate action. Weather conditions can change rapidly, making it essential to monitor forecasts and onsite conditions throughout the workday. If you can hear thunder, lightning is close enough to pose a danger.
You do not need to see lightning to be at risk. Lightning can strike up to 10 miles away from a storm. For this reason, lightning safety is a critical responsibility on every jobsite.
The first step in protecting workers is to establish a comprehensive lightning safety plan. Supervisors and safety personnel should review weather forecasts daily and continuously monitor changing conditions throughout the day.
While working outdoors, remain alert to signs of approaching storms, including darkening clouds, increasing wind speeds and sudden drops in temperature. These can all indicate that severe weather is developing. Weather applications and lightning detection systems should be used to receive real-time updates and alerts.
If a storm is approaching, be prepared to stop work and move all personnel to a safe location. When lightning is present in the area, all outdoor activities should cease immediately. Workers should seek shelter in a fully enclosed building or a hard-topped vehicle. Open shelters, tents and partially enclosed structures do not provide adequate protection from lightning.
Stay away from scaffolding, ladders, metal tools and heavy equipment during a lightning event. At the first sound of thunder, stop work and seek shelter. Do not resume outdoor activities until at least 30 minutes have passed since the last clap of thunder.
If a person is struck by lightning, call 9-1-1 immediately and provide first aid as soon as it is safe to do so. Prompt emergency response can save a life.
Lightning safety is more than common sense – it is a lifesaving practice. Protecting your health and safety must always remain a top priority. Do not wait until it is too late. Stay alert, follow established safety procedures and take every thunderstorm seriously.
Interested in obtaining workers’ comp insurance? Members of FRSA-SIF/BrightFund have access to Safety Reps who visit jobsites and conduct safety training and toolbox talks for crews. Please contact Alexis at BrightFund by phone at 800-767-3772 ext. 206 or by email at alexis@brightfund.com.