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Smart Summary

• Winter weather poses unique challenges for workplace safety
• Along with the dangers of falls, winter weather increases risk of heart attack, cold weather stress, and concerns around equipment safety
• Proper clothing, equipment and site maintenance, and effective communication are impactful strategies to minimize winter-related injuries and incidents 

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As temperatures fall, your employees may too. Falls are just one possible workplace injury that employers should be mindful of during the winter months. Certain industries have particular concerns when it comes to workers facing the elements, but all employers can take basic precautions to keep their employees safe all season.

Like a warm winter coat and your favorite pair of mittens, we’re here to help keep you and your employees as comfortable as possible.

What Are the Effects of Cold Weather on the Body?

Without getting too deep into science, our bodies want to keep a stable internal temperature. When faced with cold temperatures, chilly winds, sleet, and snow, our bodies work to conserve heat. Blood vessels near the skin’s surface contract, blood flow to the extremities slows, and before you know it, you’re in danger of hypothermia and your fingers, toes, and nose are susceptible to frostbite.

Also, those narrow blood vessels restrict blood flow and oxygen to the heart. The heat has to pump harder to circulate through constricted blood vessels, which leads to both higher blood pressure and heart rate. This is also why cold weather exposure can increase the risk of heart attack.

Other effects of cold weather stress – aside from the aforementioned falling – may include shivering, fatigue, damage to hands and feet (including chilblains and trench foot), and in severe cases, confusion and unconsciousness. To combat the effects of cold weather on the human body:

• Employees should wear multiple layers of properly-fitting, insulated clothing that protects extremities and covers the head and neck, preventing heat loss. Monitor the wind chill temperature, especially during the coldest parts of the day, and provide warm shelters for breaks and access to warm liquids.

What Are the Effects of Cold Weather on Equipment and Machinery?

Like the body, equipment doesn’t like to be cold, either. In cold weather, machinery may take longer to warm up and become operable, tools may be slippery if they’re exposed to snow or ice, and vehicle safety takes on a new level of importance during a cold Ohio winter. Employers and employees should:

• Ensure any equipment used in cold weather is properly maintained, safe to operate, and cleared of any ice or snow before use.

How Else Can Employers Minimize Cold Weather Injuries and Incidents?

As you do all year round, employers should ensure that they have created the safest possible work environment to minimize the risk of cold weather injuries. Here are a few of our best stay-safe tips:

1. Knowledge. You know your industry best, so be prepared for the winter-weather needs specific to your industry.
2. Training. Train your employees to be aware of the dangers of working in cold weather.
3. Prevention. Clear any machinery, equipment, parking lots, sidewalks, entrances, and exits to your facility from snow and ice. Have we mentioned people fall a lot during the winter? Keep de-icing products on hand, too.
4. Communication. Keep your employees updated about winter weather risks and best practices.
5. Gear. Especially for outdoor workers, ensure your employees are wearing the right clothing to stay warm and dry.

By preparing for cold and inclement weather, and taking proper precautions once winter arrives, your workplace can be ready to face the hazards of the season and minimize their risks.

For more information on winter safety and preparedness, visit OSHA’s winter weather website.

And for questions on how to keep your employees safe this winter, contact Jacob Dobres.