Information provided by Rob Roloson, AGC Safety Management Consultant
As we head into the heart of winter it may be a good time to review some safety tips for working in cold weather. Working outside in cold conditions can be dangerous, not just uncomfortable. Slick conditions can increase chances for slips and falls and cold weather can expose workers to frostbite, hypothermia, and cold stress. Below you can find some tips for working safely in cold weather:
- Protect against slips, trips, and falls: To reduce injuries, remove ice and snow from parking lots, sidewalks, entryways, and work areas. Encourage all employees to wear footwear with heavy treads for traction when working outdoors. Ice spikes may be an option for employees who must traverse iced surfaces. Take it slow and use short steps when on slick surfaces.
- No bad weather, just bad gear: Dress for the conditions by wearing at least three layers of loose-fitting clothing when working in extreme winter temperatures:
- An inner layer of wool, silk, or synthetic (polypropylene) to keep moisture away from the body.
- A middle insulation layer of wool or polar fleece-type material.
- An outer wind and rain protection layer that allows some ventilation to prevent overheating.
- Know the symptoms of cold stress: Cold stress refers to cold-related illnesses that occur when the body is unable to maintain its normal temperature. Some risk factors include low temperatures, wind chill, and wet/damp clothing. Common cold-related illnesses include hypothermia, frostbite, and trench foot.
- Bring the heat: handwarmers, hot meals or beverages in a thermos, and warm breaks in a vehicle or building can help employees endure cold weather. Eating enough food and staying hydrated helps the body stay warm in cold temperatures.
- Have a plan: Develop a plan or procedure for cold weather at your company. It is important to have a plan in place and know who is responsible for specific actions before the storm arrives. If your company allows snow days, it should be communicated prior to the event.
Driving in winter conditions can also pose a unique challenge. For some safety tips on preparing for winter driving, see our resource written by AGC Safety Management Consultant Andrew Johnson. Stay safe when the weather outside is frightful!