Weekly Safety Share #73 - Working in Winter
Good morning, everyone!
It looks like the fluffy white stuff called snow is here to stay for another winter. As northerners, we know that the cold is part of our lives—both at work and at play—and we take pride in adapting to it. Working outside in winter can be a tough and dirty job, but with preparation and awareness, it doesn’t have to be a dangerous one.
Whether you’re on a job site, driving between communities, or simply spending time outdoors, here are some important safety reminders to help you stay warm, healthy, and safe this winter season.
1. Understand the Risks: Frostbite and Hypothermia
Two of the most common winter hazards are frostbite and hypothermia, and both can happen faster than you might think.
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Frostbite can start when skin is exposed to temperatures as mild as -2°C (28°F). Left untreated, it can cause tissue damage, blood clots, and even gangrene.
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Hypothermia occurs when your body loses heat faster than it can produce it. Early signs include shivering, fatigue, confusion, dizziness, and excessive sweating. Without treatment, a person can lose consciousness and may not recover.
Prevention Tip: Dress properly, stay dry, and get to a warm space at the first signs of numbness or confusion.
2. Dress for the Conditions
Layering is the best defense against the cold:
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Wear several layers of lightweight clothing instead of one thick layer. Layers trap warm air and can be removed to prevent overheating.
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Keep dry. Wet clothing is 20 times less warm than dry clothing, so change out of wet gear as soon as possible.
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Protect your head and ears. Up to half of your body heat can escape through your head. Wear a hat that covers your ears or use earmuffs.
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Choose gloves wisely. Use gloves with insulation appropriate for your task—warm but flexible enough for safe tool use.
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Avoid loose clothing. Scarves, drawstrings, or wide sleeves can get caught in rotating machinery and cause serious injury.
3. Watch Your Step
Slips, trips, and falls are a major cause of workplace injuries in winter.
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Inspect your footwear treads regularly—worn soles can’t grip icy surfaces.
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Consider traction aids or cleats for extremely slippery conditions.
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Walk carefully and slowly on ice.
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Use three-point contact (two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand) when climbing in and out of vehicles or equipment.
4. Keep Vision and Equipment Clear
Fogged-up safety glasses or face shields can make it difficult to see and increase the risk of accidents.
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Use anti-fog coatings or wipes designed for your safety eyewear.
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Keep equipment controls, ladders, and handles free of snow and ice buildup.
5. Eat and Rest Smart
Cold temperatures burn calories quickly, and your body works harder just to stay warm.
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Eat balanced, high-energy meals with whole grains, fruits, and lean proteins to keep your energy steady.
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Stay hydrated—dehydration is easy to overlook in cold weather.
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Get plenty of rest. Working in freezing conditions and commuting through snow demands more energy than usual.
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Be cautious when lifting or shoveling snow, as cold weather strains the heart even without heavy exertion.
6. Prepare Your Vehicle and Travel Safely
Did you know that about 70% of fatalities during snow or ice storms happen in vehicles?
Before you travel, make sure your vehicle is winter-ready and carry a survival kit, which should include:
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Blankets or sleeping bags
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Candles and matches
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A snow shovel and sandbags
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Flashlight with spare batteries
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High-energy snacks or cereal bars
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First aid supplies and extra clothing
Cold weather is part of northern life—but safety always comes first. Take time to prepare, dress properly, and stay alert. Whether you’re working on a site, traveling between communities, or helping a neighbor dig out after a storm, remember: a few minutes of prevention can make all the difference.
Stay safe, stay warm, and have a great winter season.