Anyone who works outside in harsh conditions knows the chilly season takes its toll. With temperatures dropping, it’s important to protect yourself and workers from the elements.
Even moderate cold can heighten workplace incidents, reduces work quality, and can damage equipment. The body’s response to cold decreases manual dexterity, fingertip sensitivity, and muscle strength. Wind chill can worsen these effects. Cold can also lower concentration, increase irritability, and drive people to take shortcuts.
To mitigate hazards when working in winter, these controls are recommended:
Plan work for the weather
Choose the best days for outdoor tasks based on weather reports. If protection from cold is inadequate, suspend or modify work to prevent harm.
Food, shelter, and wellbeing
Maintain body heat and prevent dehydration with food and liquids. Cold conditions demand more energy as the body struggles to stay warm. WorkSafe states that if continuous work is carried out at cold temperatures, heated shelters such as cabins or ‘smoko’ rooms should be available and regular breaks scheduled for workers to warm up and change clothes if necessary.
Training
Train workers and supervisors to recognize cold exposure symptoms like hypothermia. A trained first aid person is recommended. Educate employees on PPE, safe practices, and emergency procedures, and use a buddy system for monitoring each other.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Wear multiple layers of polypropylene, polyester, or merino clothing for insulation. The outer layer should be hi-vis, rain and wind-proof, and easily removable. Protect exposed areas like the head, hands, and feet. Gloves can hinder manual handling, so use warm air blowers or insulated tool handles. Choose padded, insulated footwear made of breathable materials like leather. Since hard hats don’t protect against the cold, wear a tightly fitted polypropylene or merino beanie underneath.
Following these steps ensures that winter doesn’t slow you down and keeps your team productive, happy, and safe during the colder months.
