Winter Weather Safety

Winter Weather

How to Protect Workers in the Cold

  • Recognize the environmental and workplace conditions that may be dangerous. 
  • Learn the signs and symptoms of cold-induced illnesses and injuries and what to do to help workers. 
  • Train workers about cold-induced illnesses and injuries. 
  • Encourage workers to wear proper clothing for cold, wet and windy conditions, including layers that can be adjusted to changing conditions. 
  • Be sure workers in extreme conditions take a frequent short break in warm dry shelters to allow their bodies to warm up. 
  • Try to schedule work for the warmest part of the day. 
  • Avoid exhaustion or fatigue because energy is needed to keep muscles warm. 
  • Use the buddy system – work in pairs so that one worker can recognize danger signs. 
  • Drink warm, sweet beverages (sugar water, sports-type drinks) and avoid drinks with caffeine (coffee, tea, sodas or hot chocolate) or alcohol. 
  • Eat warm, high-calorie foods such as hot pasta dishes. 
  • Remember, workers face increased risks when they take certain medications, are in poor physical condition or suffer from illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension or cardiovascular disease.