Winter Weather Risks for Workers: Staying Safe in Cold Conditions

Winter can be a challenging season for outdoor workers. From freezing temperatures to slippery surfaces, working outdoors during this time of year brings unique hazards. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, over 20,400 workers sustained injuries caused by ice, sleet, or snow in recent years, and cold weather also contributes to life-threatening conditions like frostbite and hypothermia.

At Sousa Law, LLC, we know how critical it is to protect outdoor workers from the dangers of winter. Here are the most common risks and safety tips for workers braving the cold.

Common Cold Weather Injuries and Workers' Compensation Claims

1. Cold Stress Illnesses

Prolonged exposure to low temperatures can lead to serious cold stress conditions such as:

• Frostbite: Affects fingers, toes, noses, and ears, potentially leading to permanent damage or amputation.

• Hypothermia: Occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce, leading to dangerously low body temperatures. Symptoms include confusion, shivering, and in severe cases, unconsciousness.

• Trench Foot: Occurs when feet are exposed to wet and cold conditions for extended periods, causing numbness, redness, swelling, and blistering.

 These conditions often require expensive medical treatment and may result in long-term disabilities, making workers' compensation claims vital for covering medical bills and lost wages.

2. Slips, Falls, and Strains

Icy sidewalks, parking lots, and entryways increase the risk of slip and fall injuries during the winter. Common injuries include sprains, strains, fractures, and bruises. Property owners and employers are responsible for taking preventive measures like applying salt or hiring snow removal services to minimize these risks.

3. Winter Driving Accidents

Driving in winter conditions is dangerous due to icy roads, low visibility, and rushed schedules. Icy or snowy roads contribute to 24% of all weather-related vehicle accidents, which can result in serious injuries for delivery drivers, construction workers, and other employees who travel as part of their job. Workers injured in accidents can file workers' compensation claims to cover medical expenses and lost wages.

4. Snow Removal Injuries

Shoveling snow or using snowblowers can lead to lower back injuries, muscle strains, broken bones, and head injuries. Snowblowers, in particular, pose risks of lacerations and amputations. Hiring professional snow removal services is essential to avoid these dangers and protect employees.

5. Rooftop Work Injuries

Clearing snow from rooftops is dangerous due to the risk of falls, hidden skylights, and structural instability caused by snow accumulation. Workers should never be asked to perform rooftop snow removal without proper equipment and training. Companies should hire experts to handle these tasks, reducing the risk of catastrophic injuries.

Winter Safety Tips for Outdoor Workers

Employers and employees can reduce winter weather risks by following these safety guidelines:

• Take Regular Breaks: Ensure workers take breaks in warm, dry areas to prevent cold stress.

• Wear Proper Gear: Dressing in layers and using winter-specific workwear such as insulated gloves, waterproof boots, and face coverings can protect workers from cold temperatures. Providing proper protective gear shows employees that their safety is a priority.

• Plan for Severe Weather: Monitor weather forecasts and plan driving routes accordingly to avoid hazardous conditions.

• Ensure Safe Ladder Use: When accessing roofs, workers should use fiberglass ladders, secure tie-offs, and always have a spotter.

• Mark Slippery Areas: Post caution signs in areas with wet or slippery surfaces and replace mats at entryways when they become saturated.

Injured While Working in Cold Conditions? Sousa Law, LLC Can Help

If you’ve been injured while working in cold weather, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. Whether it’s from a slip and fall, vehicle accident, or cold stress illness, Sousa Law, LLC has been helping Connecticut workers navigate the complexities of workers’ compensation claims since 1987.

Don’t face this alone—contact us today at (203) 929-8283 for a free consultation and let us help you get the compensation you deserve.