Winter Weather: Employee Safety

If you grew up in an area that experienced cold weather, you likely have memories of the frost, sleet, snow, and other activities associated with winter. You also may remember needing to take extra precautions when exposed to the cold. As an adult, we still need to be aware of and take precautions against cold exposure.

The winter season, especially, is a time when employees are at particular risk from

frostbite
hypothermia
dangerous travel conditions
lowered immune systems
and other winter- and cold-related hazards.

Cold stress from near-freezing temperatures, wind chill, wetness or dampness, and other conditions can be deadly. Workers who are not used to cold, windy, or damp work conditions are at particular risk. Temperature can be a direct factor leading to illness and fatalities, or it can be a contributing consideration that is compounded with underlying medical conditions or other factors.

In this training, you will learn how to protect yourself from cold-related hazards through the appropriate use of clothing and personal protective equipment. We will also explore different scenarios where winter weather can be particularly fatal – at work, on the way to and from work, and at home. Our training will conclude with tips on building your own cold-weather preparation and first-aid kits to ensure you are ready for the most common effects of cold exposure – along with general tips for dealing with cold stress in the workplace.

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