Electricians’ perception of work-related risks in cold climate when working on high places

Work on telecommunications and electricity transmission masts can be especially demanding in cold winter climates. This study sought to evaluate workers’ perception of work-related risks in the above conditions with special reference to the use of hand tools. A questionnaire and interviews about workers’ risk perception based on risk analysis were used. A total of 170 questionnaires were sent, of which 118 were returned, yielding a response rate of 69%. Six respondents were interviewed. In both telecommunications and electricity transmission, tools, ice, and equipment falling from masts were the greatest perceived risks, and preventing such occurrences is very important for any improvement of safety.Relevance to industryThis study provides information for developing work safety and ergonomics especially in telecommunications and electricity transmission tasks. The results apply also to other tasks in high places (for example, production plants) or to cold, icy, or slippery conditions in other industries.