LANDSCAPE ONTARIO – WORKPLACE SAFETY TAILGATE TALKS
68 © 2026, WSPS.CA
LIGHTNING
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A lightning bolt is 5 times hotter than the surface of the sun
and sends shockwaves beaming out in all directions. Only
about 10% of people struck by lightning are killed; 90%
survive. But of the survivors, many suffer life-long severe
injury and disability.
!
No place outside is safe during thunder and lightning storms!
Prevention Points
Review the General Health & Safety Best Practices section on
page 11 before performing any task.
Make it a daily practice to check and be aware of severe
weather conditions which could produce lightning.
Seek indoor shelter immediately once either thunder is heard
or lightning is seen.
If caught outside:
– place feet together, crouch down low in a ball-like stance
with your head tucked and hands on knees so that you have
minimal contact with the ground. Feet should be only body
part to touch the ground
– stay away from trees, water, metal fences and metal railings
– keep a distance between you and other co-workers to reduce
the size of you as a target
– seek shelter in an enclosed building or vehicle
Work should only be resumed 30 minutes after the last audible
clap of thunder or visible flash of lightning.
ACTION!
Review the company's policies and procedures regarding severe weather.
Discuss emergency procedures if someone has been hit by lightning,
such as:
Call 911 immediately
A person properly trained and certified in first aid should handle victim
with care. NOTE: Lightning victims do not carry a charge after being hit
