Safety Information

WINTER SAFETY
Winter Safety
With many unpredictable weather conditions year after year, get ahead of the game by taking
precautions before the cold and snow set in. Prepare your home and business now and have a plan so
that winter does not take you by surprise.
PLAN NOW FOR COLD AND ICY CONDITIONS
A GUIDE TO
WORKING IN THE ELEMENTS
Cold weather can pose some major hazards if
you haven’t prepared for it. Failing to recog-
nize and respect the dangers of winter is not
recommended. Whether traveling through,
working in, or enjoying the weather, the follow-
ing tips are helpful to ensure safety and good
health.
WEAR LAYERED CLOTHING
Multiple layers of loose-tting clothing allows
the person to adjust his/her comfort level and
protection based on the current temperature.
Tight tting clothes reduce blood circulation.
Many forget the danger of sunburn when it
is cold outside, but it is always important to
protect from the sun. Wear a hat, scarf or face
covering and always wear waterproof gloves.
Also, it is wise to keep a change of clothes in
case existing clothes get wet. Being wet can
increase the rate of heat loss from the body.
Always use proper engineering controls, safe
work practices, and personal protective equip-
ment (PPE) required by employers in all work
conditions.
STAY HYDRATED
It’s easy to forget the simple importance of
hydration when it is cold outside. It’s not like
the steamy summer months when you know
we are sweating. You still sweat—even in cold
temperatures. For optimal performance, keep
the body hydrated.
TAKE BREAKS
When the weather is particularly cold and/or
windy, regular breaks are important. If possi-
ble, take a break inside or under shelter. If it
gets very cold, get inside and warm up.
FROSTBITE AND HYPOTHERMIA
Frostbite and hypothermia can set in unexpect-