Winter work is safer with a simple cold stress plan. Here is what it should include.
In this article
Cold is a real hazard
Hypothermia, frostbite and trench foot affect crews working outdoors in winter. Cold also slows reaction time and increases slips and other injuries. A cold stress plan protects workers and keeps the job moving through winter.
What makes it worse
- Wind chill.
- Wet clothing.
- Long exposure without breaks.
- Fatigue and dehydration.
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Know the signs
Shivering, confusion, slurred speech and numb or pale skin are warning signs. Train crews to watch each other.
Layered clothing
Insulating layers, waterproof outer layers, warm gloves and hats. Keep spare dry gloves and socks on site.
Warm breaks
Provide a heated area for breaks and allow more frequent breaks in extreme cold.
Adjust the schedule
Do the most exposed work during the warmest part of the day.
Protect new workers
Workers new to cold climates are at higher risk. Pair them with experienced crew members.
Warm drinks
Warm, sweet, non-alcoholic drinks help keep energy up.
Ice and snow
Clear and salt walkways, ladders and scaffolds.
Emergency response
Know what to do for suspected hypothermia: move the person to a warm place and get medical help.
Common mistakes
Treating cold as a toughness test, working in wet clothes and having no warm break area.
A toolbox talk
"Wind chill is below zero today. Breaks in the heated trailer every hour, dry gloves are in the box, and if you notice a coworker shivering hard or confused, tell me right away."
Where to start
Before the first cold snap, set up a heated break area, stock spare gloves and socks, and give a 10-minute toolbox talk on the warning signs. Add a wind chill check to the morning routine so the plan adjusts with the weather.
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Frequently asked questions
What are the signs of cold stress?
Intense shivering, confusion, slurred speech and numb or pale skin are warning signs. Move the worker to a warm place and get medical help when needed.