Working Safely in Cold Weather

January 23, 2025

As a carpenter, you face a variety of workplace conditions, environments, and hazards. Winter can be a particularly challenging season, as cold weather brings freezing temperatures, slick workspaces, high winds, and other potentially dangerous conditions.

To promote safety on the jobsite, the Fund Office is sharing information provided by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). With preparation and awareness, you can make your workplace safer for yourself and your fellow members.

OSHA Tips for Working in Winter Weather

– Dress properly: wear at least three layers of loose-fitting clothing, insulated gloves and boots, and cover your head and face.

– Know the symptoms of cold stress; reddening skin, tingling, pain, swelling, leg cramps, numbness, and blisters.

– 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.

Preventing Slips on Snow and Ice

To prevent slips, trips, and falls, employers should clear 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.

Learn More

You can learn more about winter weather safety by clicking on the materials below and by visiting OSHA’s website here: https://www.osha.gov/winter-weather