Winter brings holiday cheer, but also winter weather: ice, snow, bone-chilling wind, and cold. For construction, multifamily, and commercial sites, the cold months add risks. But with preparation, awareness, and the right habits, we can prevent most winter weather incidents.
Common Winter Hazards
- Slips, trips, and falls — from icy or snow-covered walkways, stairs, ladders, balconies.
- Cold stress — hypothermia, frostbite, wind chill, especially for those working outdoors.
- Snow & ice accumulation — can cause collapse, falling ice, damage to site materials.
- Reduced visibility & hazardous driving conditions — both on site and commuting.
- Equipment failure — cold affects batteries, hydraulics, lubricants, etc.
Best Practices for Winter Weather Safety
- Dress in Layers:
– Base layer to wick moisture, insulating layer to retain heat, outer shell that resists wind and moisture. Don’t forget hats, gloves, warm socks. Waterproof boots with good grip are essential. - Prepare the Site:
– Clear snow and ice regularly from walkways, scaffolds, stairs, roof edges.
– Use sand, salt, or grit where needed.
– Ensure ladders and scaffolds are stable and free of ice.
– Secure things that could shift or blow in wind. - Warm-Up & Rest Breaks:
– Provide warm‐up shelters or heated vehicles. Schedule regular breaks for workers to warm up. Monitor team for signs of cold-related health issues. - Safe Snow/Ice Removal:
– Use proper ergonomics: bend knees, lift with legs, avoid twisting. Use equipment where possible. Work in pairs if heavy or awkward loads. - Vehicle & Equipment Maintenance:
– Keep equipment maintained — check tires, antifreeze, batteries, lights. Ensure vehicles have emergency kits (blanket, flashlight, traction aids). Clear off snow from vehicles before driving. - Training & Awareness:
– Conduct winter‐specific safety briefings. Share hazard warnings (black ice, wind chill). Encourage employees to report potential risks.
What We’re Doing at Cemplex Group:
- Distributing winter safety checklists & posters to all worksites.
- Weekly toolbox talks.
- Supervisors monitoring conditions & postponing tasks, if necessary, in unsafe situations.
- Ensuring everyone has needed PPE for cold, wet, windy work.
Winter weather doesn’t have to slow us down or cause accidents. If we stay prepared, take the right precautions, and watch out for each other, we’ll get through December safely. Let’s finish the year strong—safe, healthy, and ready for whatever weather comes.
Stay warm. Stay alert. Stay safe.