Black Ice, White Snow, Red Flags: How to Avoid Winter Work Hazards

Winter brings its own set of challenges for workers, from frostbite to icy walkways. Let’s explore how to protect yourself and your team from the dangers of cold stress and winter-related hazards.

Cold sneaks in fast, so gear up before it bites.

Did you know cold-related deaths are nearly double those caused by heat? Winter hazards can sneak up on anyone, especially when temperatures drop and winds pick up. Here’s what we’ll cover:

• Choosing the right clothing and PPE for the cold
• Recognizing and avoiding workplace hazards in winter
• How to prepare for winter travel and emergencies

Let’s dive in!

Dress smart or freeze trying.

The right clothing can make all the difference in staying warm and dry.

• Layer Up
  • Wear at least three layers: a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and an outer layer that blocks wind and water.
• Choose the Right Gear
  • Gloves, hats, earmuffs, insulated boots, and socks protect extremities.
  • Avoid tight clothing to maintain circulation.
• Keep Dry
  • Wet clothing loses heat 25 times faster than dry clothes. Change wet layers immediately.

Know your cold stress villains before they strike.

Cold stress can lead to serious health risks, like:

• Hypothermia
  • Symptoms: Shivering, confusion, slurred speech, slowed heart rate, and unconsciousness.
• Frostbite
  • Symptoms: Gray-white skin patches, numbness, and blisters.
  • Protect exposed areas like fingers, toes, nose, and ears.
• Trench Foot
  • Symptoms: Tingling, swollen skin, blisters, and numbness.
  • Caused by prolonged exposure to wet conditions, even above freezing temperatures.

Slips and spills are winter’s favorite prank, don’t fall for it.

Snow and ice can make even simple tasks dangerous.

Watch Your Step

• • Walk carefully on icy surfaces with short, shuffling steps.
  • Use footwear with good traction and non-slip soles.

Clear Pathways

• • Remove snow and ice from walkways and use salt or sand to improve traction.

Stay Visible

• • Snowdrifts can hide tripping hazards like tools, cords, or uneven surfaces.

Handle Equipment Safely

• • Cold weather can make materials brittle, increasing the risk of damage or injury.

When the roads get rough, your smarts need to kick in.

Winter weather makes commuting risky.

• Plan Ahead
  • Clear walkways and driveways before heading out.
  • Check weather forecasts and leave extra time for travel.
• Drive Safely
  • Slow down, avoid distractions, and let someone know your route.
• Be Prepared
  • Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle with essentials like blankets, jumper cables, flashlights, and non-perishable snacks.

Your cold crisis cheat sheet, read it, save it, live it.

Knowing what to do in an emergency can save lives.

• For Hypothermia
  • Move the person to a warm, dry place. Replace wet clothing with blankets and avoid direct heat. Call for medical help immediately.
• For Frostbite
  • Wrap the affected area loosely in a dry cloth. Never rub or rewarm the area yourself. Seek medical attention.
• For Trench Foot
  • Dry and elevate the feet. Avoid walking and seek medical care promptly.

Turn up the heat on safety culture.

Create a workplace that prioritizes cold-weather safety:

• Schedule outdoor tasks during warmer parts of the day.
• Rotate workers between cold and indoor tasks to prevent overexposure.
• Encourage frequent breaks to warm up and hydrate.
• Use a buddy system to monitor each other’s well-being.

Cold stress doesn’t stand a chance with the right moves.

Cold stress is preventable with the right preparation, awareness, and action. By following these guidelines, we can create a safer work environment where everyone feels supported and protected. Remember, winter safety is a team effort, let’s face the season together!

Winter’s here, so let’s keep it chill and injury-free.

Winter brings unique challenges, but with the right preparation and awareness, you can stay safe and productive. If you’re unsure about your workplace’s cold-weather safety measures or need guidance on PPE and cold stress prevention, now is the time to act. Speak with your supervisor or safety team to ensure you have the tools and knowledge to handle winter hazards effectively. Winter safety matters. Master cold-weather preparedness and hazard prevention with our Winter Workplace Safety Training Course.

Need a refresher on how to stay safe behind the wheel when the roads get slick? Don’t miss our Winter Safety: Safe Driving Practices Training Course, it’s packed with practical tips that’ll keep your commute from becoming a cautionary tale.

References

• Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) – Cold Stress Guide.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Cold Stress Prevention.
• National Weather Service (NWS) – Winter Safety Tips.