Comprehensive Winter Safety Planning
Winter brings unique hazards that require proactive preparation. From slip-and-fall risks to heating system dangers, proper planning protects your employees and visitors.
Slip, Trip, and Fall Prevention
Falls on ice and snow are one of the most common winter injuries.
Outdoor Areas
Snow and Ice Removal:
Establish clear responsibility for snow removalSet response time standards (e.g., within 2 hours of accumulation)Prioritize high-traffic areas and emergency exitsDocument removal activities with times and conditionsIce Management:
Pre-treat surfaces before storms when possibleUse appropriate de-icing materials for your surfacesAvoid rock salt on concrete less than one year oldProvide adequate drainage to prevent refreezingTransitions:
Place absorbent mats at all entrancesChange mats regularly as they become saturatedMark wet floor areas with warning signsEnsure good lighting in parking areas and walkwaysIndoor Areas
Keep entryway floors dry and cleanUse slip-resistant floor treatmentsEnsure adequate lightingRepair damaged flooring promptlyHeating System Safety
Proper heating system maintenance prevents fires, carbon monoxide poisoning, and equipment failures.
Pre-Season Inspection
Schedule professional inspection of:
Furnaces and boilersFlue pipes and ventingHeat exchangers for cracksBurner operation and efficiencySafety controls and shutoffsCarbon Monoxide Protection
Install CO detectors near heating equipment and sleeping areasTest detectors monthlyReplace batteries annually (or use 10-year sealed units)Know symptoms: headache, dizziness, nausea, confusionSpace Heater Safety
If portable heaters are permitted:
Use only approved heaters with tip-over shutoffsMaintain 3-foot clearance from combustiblesPlug directly into outlets (no extension cords)Turn off when unattended or leaving areaProhibit in areas with flammable materialsCold Stress Prevention
Workers exposed to cold conditions face risks of hypothermia, frostbite, and reduced dexterity.
Risk Factors
Air temperature below 40°FWind chillContact with cold water or surfacesInadequate clothingCertain medications and health conditionsPrevention Measures
Engineering Controls:
Provide heated break areasShield work areas from windProvide radiant heaters for stationary workAdministrative Controls:
Schedule cold work during warmest parts of dayRotate workers to limit exposureRequire buddy system for remote workProvide warm drinks (avoid caffeine)Training:
Recognize symptoms of cold stressProper dressing techniques (layers, moisture-wicking)First aid for frostbite and hypothermiaWhen to seek medical attentionEmergency Preparedness
Winter storms can trap employees and disrupt operations.
Emergency Supplies
Flashlights and batteriesBattery-powered radioFirst aid kitBlanketsNon-perishable food and waterMedications for employees with needsCommunication Plans
How to notify employees of closuresRemote work procedures if applicableEmergency contact information updatesBackup Systems
Test backup generatorsStock fuel for extended outagesIdentify critical systems requiring powerHave manual backup proceduresVehicle and Equipment Safety
Cold weather affects vehicles and outdoor equipment.
Vehicle Preparation
Winter tires or chains for company vehiclesCheck battery, antifreeze, and windshield fluidEmergency kits in all vehicles (blanket, shovel, sand)Allow extra time for warming upEquipment Maintenance
Check hydraulic systems for cold-weather fluidInspect batteries and charging systemsVerify heaters/defrosters workFollow cold-start proceduresRoof Safety
Snow and ice on roofs create weight and ice dam hazards.
Monitoring:
Know your roof's weight capacityMonitor accumulation during stormsWatch for uneven loadingRemoval:
Use qualified personnel with fall protectionRemove snow before it exceeds design loadNever use salt products on roofsClear roof drains and scuppersDocumentation and Training
Prepare and distribute:
Winter safety policiesSnow removal proceduresCold stress prevention guidelinesEmergency closure proceduresTrain employees on:
Winter driving safetyRecognizing and reporting hazardsCold stress symptoms and first aidEmergency proceduresCritical Dynamics provides seasonal safety assessments and training programs to prepare your facility for winter hazards. Contact us to schedule your winter readiness review.