Winter Workplace Safety

With the arrival of winter comes a whole new set of safety hazards. Temperatures drop, winds pick up speed and workers become more prone to slips, trips, and falls – but the work must go on.

OSHA and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) are working together on a public education effort aimed at improving the way people prepare for and respond to severe weather. A number of resources have been compiled by these agencies to help businesses and their employees prepare for winter weather and keep safe during, and after winter storms.

Employers are responsible for providing their employees with a workplace that is safe from recognized hazards, including extreme weather. During winter, in addition to cold stress, workers may be exposed to other winter-related hazards when performing tasks such as driving in the snow, removing snow from rooftops, and working near downed or damaged power lines. These hazards are likely to cause serious physical injury or even death. Therefore, employers should:

• Train Workers
• Provide Engineering Controls
• Implement Safe Work Practices
• Consider Protective Clothing that Provides Warmth

OSHA has also provided a number of safety tips for winter weather, which include:

• Dressing Properly for the Cold
• Safety Tips for Workers