If you have outdoor workers or staff that have to venture out into the elements during an especially cold winter, you need to make sure you are taking the correct precautions to keep them safe. If the conditions are harsh, your workers are at heightened danger of injury, or worse. But even if you have employees who are outside for short periods, they can also suffer injuries if they are not prepared.
Seasonal Dangers
- Cold or frigid temperatures
- High winds
- Damp air
- Slippery surfaces
- Contact with water
- Frostbite
- Hypothermia
- Risk of strains, slips, and falls
- Dehydration
- Decreased performance
OSHA Recommendations
Check the Forecast
Before the end of a shift, a supervisor should check the forecast for the next day to alert workers about any precautions they should take.
Appropriate Clothing
Workers should have proper clothing suited for working in cold-weather conditions. Clothing from thermal underwear to gloves and jackets is the first line of defense against cold weather. Consider these tips for your employees:
- Wear three layers of clothing: insulating underwear to trap perspiration, a middle layer that protects the body from precipitation, and an outer layer that allows ventilation and prevents overheating.
- Cotton is not always a good choice. Wool, silk, and some synthetic fabrics are better at keeping skin dry even when it’s raining or the worker is sweating.
- Wear a warm cap or hat, gloves, warm socks, and insulated shoes.
- Carry an extra set of clothing.
Train Workers
Workers should be trained on how to prevent and recognize cold-stress illnesses and injuries, and how to apply first aid treatment. They should also be trained on appropriate engineering controls, personal protective equipment, and work practices to reduce the risk of cold stress.
Eat Healthy and Stay Hydrated
Stress the importance of a healthy diet and regular hydration. Ask that they always eat breakfast before working outside to give the body the fuel it needs. Also, ask them to avoid excessive drinking the night before work.
Recognize Symptoms
Teach your workers about the symptoms of frostbite, hypothermia, and dehydration. They should report any symptoms they are experiencing to supervisors, who should know how to summon help and protect the worker.
Teach Workers to Recognize Hypothermia Symptoms
The Symptoms of Hypothermia
Mild Symptoms
- Shivering.
Moderate to Severe Hypothermia Symptoms
- As body temperature continues to fall, shivering will stop.
- Loss of coordination, fine motor skills, disorientation.
- Difficulty walking or standing.
- Dilated pupils.
- Slowing pulse and breathing.
- Loss of consciousness can occur.
Frostbite Symptoms
- Reddened skin develops gray/white patches.
- Numbness in the affected body part.
- The affected part feels firm or hard.
- Blisters may occur in the affected part, in severe cases.