Blog Post  Plan, Equip, and Train for Winter Weather

Winter weather can expose outdoor workers to frostbite, hypothermia, and cold stress, all of which can be fatal. Now is the time to prepare to avoid injuries and illnesses. The state’s Department of Labor Standards takes great pride in educating businesses and workers on workplace hazards, as well as working with public and private sector partners to make Massachusetts a great place to work and to do business. This blog features a collection of resources that businesses and workers can access to help prepare for winter weather and covers information about hazards that workers may face during and after winter storms.

Slips on snow and ice are one of the most common and preventable workplace incidents during the winter season. OSHA suggests employers can prevent slips, trips, and falls by clearing snow and ice from walking surfaces, and spread deicer, as quickly as possible after a winter storm. When walking on snow or ice is unavoidable workers should be trained to:

• Wear footwear that has good traction and insulation (e.g. insulated and water-resistant boots or rubber over-shoes with good rubber treads)
• Take short steps and walk at a slower pace to react quickly to changes in traction

OSHA’s winter weather webpages provide guidance to employers on how to prevent serious injuries and fatalities. Employers should consider options to avoid working on roofs or elevated heights, plan ahead for safe snow removal.

Click on any of the links below to view and download informational flyers for the office and worksite!

• workers-in-cold-environments.pdf (mass.gov)
• Preventing Slips and Trips in Snow and Ice Bulletin | Mass.gov
• Safety requirements for removing snow from rooftops | Mass.gov
• Minimum Workplace Heating Guidelines | Mass.gov

Ready to take the next steps in workplace safety? The Department of Labor Standards offers free on-site safety and health consultations to help businesses recognize and control potential safety and health hazards. Learn more: OSHA On-Site Consultation Program. 

Blog by MassLWD Communications Staff. Find our official agency accounts: Mass.gov/LWD