Let’s explore the critical PPE every outdoor worker needs, with insights supported by government data and expert recommendations.

Understanding the Risks: Winter Work Hazards

Winter weather brings specific hazards that can lead to serious injuries or even fatalities. According to the ), cold stress, including hypothermia and frostbite, is a for outdoor workers during the colder months. Workers exposed to cold for extended periods are at higher risk of these conditions, which can be deadly if not addressed promptly.

In addition to cold stress, winter work environments are prone to slip-and-fall accidents. The reports that for thousands of slip, trip, and fall injuries each year, with icy conditions on walkways and job sites being the leading cause. The warns that on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes when temperatures drop below -20°F with wind chills. With these risks in mind, having the proper PPE is not just a matter of comfort but of survival.

Must-Have PPE for Outdoor Workers in Winter

To mitigate these risks, here are the key types of winter PPE that every outdoor worker should wear:

Insulated Outerwear: Stay Warm and Safe

Insulated jackets, pants, and other outerwear are crucial for keeping workers warm in freezing temperatures. The emphasizes the of moisture-wicking and thermal fabrics that trap heat while allowing sweat to escape. Materials like fleece or wool are ideal for base layers, while water-resistant or windproof outer layers are essential for protecting against cold winds and wet conditions.

Why It Matters: Hypothermia begins when the body temperature falls below 95°F. Without proper insulation, the body loses heat rapidly, which can lead to serious health risks.

Pro Tip: Layering is key—use moisture-wicking materials as a base layer to keep sweat away from the skin and build warmth with thicker, insulated layers on top.

Waterproof, Anti-Slip Boots: Combat Slips and Cold

Icy surfaces are one of the most dangerous aspects of winter work. The reports that nearly occur on icy or slushy roads, and similar conditions on job sites make slipping a serious concern for workers. Waterproof boots with slip-resistant soles are critical for maintaining balance and warmth.

What to Look For: Look for boots that are not only insulated to retain heat but also feature slip-resistant soles designed for traction on ice and snow.

High-Visibility Gear: Be Seen and Stay Safe

Reduced visibility due to snow, fog, or shorter daylight hours makes it harder for workers to be seen, increasing the risk of accidents, especially near traffic or moving machinery. The FWHA strongly wearing high-visibility clothing, such as jackets, vests, and reflective accessories.

The Stats: , over 65% of construction worker fatalities involve workers being struck by vehicles, making visibility one of the most important safety measures for outdoor workers.

Insulated Gloves: Protect Your Hands

Hands are particularly vulnerable to cold, and frostbite can occur rapidly when workers’ hands are exposed. The highlights the for insulated, waterproof gloves that offer both warmth and dexterity. Workers should wear gloves that protect against extreme cold without hindering their ability to handle tools or equipment.

Tip: Choose gloves with touchscreen capabilities to avoid removing them when using smartphones or tablets on the job.

Head and Face Protection: Shield from the Elements

Cold weather can cause frostbite on exposed skin, particularly on the face and ears. Hard hat liners, balaclavas, and face masks are essential for maintaining warmth and preventing cold-related injuries. OSHA covering all exposed skin to minimize the risk of frostbite, especially when working outside for extended periods.

Did You Know?: , frostbite can occur on the nose, cheeks, or ears in just minutes under extreme cold conditions, making face protection a critical component of winter PPE.

Eye Protection: Combat Snow Glare

Snow and ice can create dangerous glare, making it difficult for workers to see clearly. Safety glasses or goggles that provide UV protection are essential. The FHWA also eyewear with anti-fog features to ensure clear vision, especially in wet and windy conditions.

Maintaining Winter PPE for Optimal Protection

Even the best winter PPE won’t protect workers if it’s not properly maintained. OSHA regularly inspecting PPE for signs of damage or wear. Over time, waterproofing can wear off, insulation can lose its effectiveness, and slip-resistant soles can degrade. Regular cleaning and proper storage can extend the life of your PPE and ensure it remains effective.

Beyond PPE: Additional Safety Measures

While PPE is a vital part of winter safety, other precautions can further reduce risks:

• Hydration and Nutrition: According to the , staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet help the body cope with cold stress. Avoiding caffeine or alcohol, which can exacerbate dehydration, is essential.
• Frequent Breaks: Take scheduled breaks in warm shelters to prevent the body from getting too cold, especially during long shifts.
• Worker Training: Educate your team about the symptoms of frostbite and hypothermia, which include numbness, skin discoloration, and excessive shivering. Implementing a buddy system can help identify these symptoms early.

Looking Ahead

Winter on the job site doesn’t have to mean sacrificing safety or productivity. Winter work is challenging, but it’s also manageable with the right preparation. Equipping workers with the best PPE and following proper safety practices can significantly reduce the risks posed by cold temperatures and icy conditions.

Prioritize safety, stay warm, and ensure your team is ready to handle whatever winter throws their way. For more expert insights, practical tools, and cutting-edge safety solutions, visit our Risk Management page.

Stay safe, stay warm, and work smart this winter!

As winter weather approaches, property owners face unique challenges that can impact the safety and integrity of their buildings. From frozen pipes, to fires from heating appliances, to potential roof damage, winter weather poses various risks that can lead to costly insurance claims. Proactive measures not only enhance safety and maintenance of the buildings but can also reduce the likelihood of claims.

All businesses should be prepared, even in areas where sustained below-freezing temperatures are considered unusual. The past century has seen an increase in severe winter weather, according to the . Winter Storm Elliot, for example, caused death and destruction in 20 U.S. States and damages from Canada well into Florida and the Gulf Coast States in 2022. The financial impact of this storm is estimated at $5.4 billion in insurance losses. In 2021, the resulted in policyholder losses that exceeded $15 billion after homes and businesses were left without water and power for days.

The best way to combat unpredictable storms is to prepare now. Before cold weather hits, business owners should walk through the facility to conduct a thorough risk assessment for winter weather threats. This involves identifying potential hazards such as inadequate insulation, aging roofs, or faulty heating systems. Addressing these issues before winter arrives can significantly reduce the risk of damage.

WINTER PREPAREDNESS CHECKLIST

Winter preparedness for commercial properties is a shared responsibility and by emphasizing risk assessment, proactive maintenance, and effective emergency planning, the potential for winter-related claims can be significantly reduced.

A Winter Preparedness Checklist can help business owners troubleshoot winter weather hazards and be better prepared in the event of a storm. The list emphasizes preplanning and evaluation of the roofing, HVAC, and plumbing systems.

Learn more about preventing winter-related property risks by reaching out to your 91şÚÁĎÍř risk management consultant or riskmanagement@amerisure.com.

But did you know that PPE is just as important for workers who are performing their role in cold environments?

Employees who are exposed to the chilly outdoors are at risk of cold stress. Cold stress can be caused by cold temperatures, high and/or cold wind, dampness, and cold water. It occurs from and ultimately the body’s internal temperature – and can lead to serious or even life-threatening conditions such as hypothermia, frostbite, chilblains, and trench foot.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly 200 occupational injuries and illnesses resulted from “environmental cold” conditions in 2020. In climates with colder months, it’s important to consider specific protective equipment that crew members should wear to help reduce the chance of cold stress.

PPE for Winter Safety

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), employers should consider protective clothing that provides warmth for teams working in cold conditions. These items may include:

• Protection for extremities: gloves, wool socks, scarves, hat
• Loose fitting and lightweight layers (at least three)
• Water repellent, hooded jackets, raincoats, parkas
• Insulated, anti-slip boots or shoes
• UV eye protection –

Watching for Wind Chill

Wind chill temperature measures the rate of heat loss from the human body and the impact of cold on exposed skin. The showcases when wind chill reaches a critical level and provides information on wind chill for various air temperatures and wind speeds.

For more information about wind chill safety and prevention, read 91şÚÁĎÍř’s Safety Bulletin.

Winter Safety Best Practices

Employers should train teams on how to prevent and recognize cold stress and apply first aid treatment. In addition to protective equipment, environmental controls such as shielding work areas should be part of protocol. Workers who are facing winter conditions should also consider implementing a “buddy system” to help workers keep an eye out for the warning signs of cold stress among their teammates.

The Causes of Cold Stress
Cold stress can be caused by cold temperatures, high or cold wind, dampness, and cold water. According to , when exposed to cold conditions, much of the body’s energy is used to keep internal temperatures warm. This can cause a shift in blood flow from extremities to the chest and abdomen, driving down the body’s temperature and causing cold stress.

Monitoring Wind Chill
Wind chill temperature measures the rate of heat loss from the human body and the impact of cold on exposed skin. The issues advisories when the wind chill reaches a critical level and provides a wind chill index to calculate the dangers from winter winds and cold temperatures.

Cold Weather Safety
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), employers can take the following steps to help prevent cold stress-related injuries for workers:

• Train teams on how to prevent and recognize cold stress and apply first aid treatment
• Provide environmental controls such as shielded work areas and protective equipment
• Schedule heavy work during the warmer parts of the day when possible
• Ensure the team is dressed properly for the weather, including at least three layers of loose-fitting clothing for insulation; hats or hooded jackets; knit masks; gloves; and insulated shoes
• Keep teams hydrated on the job site with warm, sweetened fluids
• Create a buddy system to help workers keep an eye out for the warning signs of cold stress

Businesses that have employees working in cold conditions should ensure they are following best practices to help prevent cold-related injuries. For more information about cold stress safety and prevention, and the National Weather Service

With winter weather approaching, now is the time to help fleet drivers prevent crashes on the road.

Here are five tips to help keep commercial drivers safe this winter:

1. Adhere to Safe Speeds: Commercial fleet drivers should stay slightly below the speed limit when the roads are slippery, and should accelerate and brake lightly, with a firm grip on the steering wheel. This allows for better control and makes it easier to stop or move the vehicle if necessary.
2. Increase Following Distance: The more space between each vehicle on icy or snowy roads, the better. Drivers can help avoid a collision by maintaining a safe distance between their vehicle and the one in front of them and by increasing their following distance to 8-10 seconds apart.
3. Check Vehicle Conditions: Before operating the vehicle, check the windshield wipers, defrosters, cooling system, and washer reservoir. Check all lights and ensure they are clean, including headlights, brake lights, turn signals and emergency flashers. Once on the road, keep a close watch on the fuel gauge and fill up with fuel once the gauge reaches the halfway point.
4. Maintain a Winter Weather Kit: Keep an updated emergency winter weather kit in your vehicle. According to the (NHTSA) the kit should include a snow shovel, broom and ice scraper; sand or cat litter in the event the vehicle is stuck; jumper cables; a flashlight; emergency flares; warm blankets; a cell phone charger, and food and water.
5. Monitor Weather Conditions: Prepare in advance for winter weather driving — monitor road and weather conditions before taking off by checking a weather app. Watch for “black ice,” a smooth and often glossy thin coating of ice on a surface that can be especially dangerous.

Following these tips can help fleet drivers stay safe on the road during the cold season. For more information and advice on winter weather driving, visit the .