Working Safely in Cold Weather: OSHA ALERT

Working Safely in Cold Weather: OSHA ALERT 
Winter weather can expose outdoor workers to frostbite, hypothermia, and cold stress, all of which can be fatal. It is important to know the wind chill temperature to better prepare and perform the work safely.

Follow these work practices to stay safe in cold weather:
• Know the symptoms of cold stress; reddening skin, tingling, pain, swelling, leg cramps, numbness,
and blisters.
• Dress properly; wear at least three layers of loose-fitting clothing, insulated gloves and boots,
and cover your head.
• Monitor your physical condition and that of your coworkers.
• Stay dry and pack extra clothes; moisture can increase heat loss from the body.
• Take frequent breaks in warm, dry areas.
• Drink warm liquids.
For more safety tips, visit OSHA’s Winter Weather page.
OSHA’s On-Site Consultation Program provides no-cost and confidential occupational safety and health compliance assistance to small- and medium-sized businesses. Consultation services are separate from enforcement and do not result in penalties or citations. The OSHA Training Institute Education Centers offer courses for workers, employers, and managers on hazard recognition and
abatement at convenient locations nationwide.

Click here for the pdf of this OSHA Alert