Winter safety conversations often begin — and end — with what we can see: icy sidewalks, snow-covered parking lots, slick roads. Those risks are real. But many of winter’s most disruptive workplace safety hazards don’t arrive with drama or visibility. They settle in quietly, embedded in familiar routines and indoor spaces where people spend most of their day.

What makes these hazards easy to overlook is also what makes them costly. They develop gradually, compound over time, and affect judgment, balance, and performance long before an incident occurs.

Here are six often overlooked cold-weather hazards — and why recognizing them matters.

1. Cold Stress and Slip Risks Don’t Stay Outside

Cold stress is often associated with outdoor crews, yet it can affect workers indoors as well — particularly in warehouses, manufacturing facilities, loading docks, and older buildings with inconsistent heating or frequent air exchange.

Prolonged exposure to cooler temperatures can reduce circulation, stiffen muscles, slow reaction time, and impair coordination, even when conditions don’t feel extreme. Because these effects develop gradually, they’re easy to dismiss until reduced dexterity and delayed responses increase the likelihood of strains, handling errors, or secondary incidents.

Winter hazards also tend to follow workers inside. Snow, slush, and moisture tracked through entrances can create slick conditions in lobbies, corridors, stairwells, and break areas — spaces that feel familiar enough to lower awareness. Surfaces that appear dry may still lack traction, particularly during peak traffic periods when mats shift, floors are cleaned frequently, or moisture accumulates unnoticed. consistently shows slips, trips, and falls remain one of the leading causes of workplace injuries involving days away from work, with winter conditions contributing to seasonal increases.

Effective winter workplace safety depends on recognizing how indoor conditions and routine traffic patterns change over time — and adjusting housekeeping, matting, lighting, and expectations before minor exposure turns into a preventable injury.

2. Dehydration Is a Winter Risk — Not a Summer One

Hydration often falls off the winter safety radar, yet occupational health research shows dehydration risk can increase in colder months. Workers lose fluids not only through sweat, but through respiration — and dry winter air accelerates that loss. Lower humidity, dry skin, and a diminished thirst response all contribute, the body’s ability to retain water and leaving many people chronically dehydrated through winter.

that dehydration can contribute to fatigue, reduced concentration, and higher injury risk, especially in physically demanding or safety-sensitive roles. Managing winter dehydration means treating hydration as a year-round safety control, reinforcing access, reminders, and expectations so fatigue and focus don’t quietly erode safe performance.

3. Carbon Monoxide Exposure Is a Quiet Winter Threat

Winter conditions increase the risk of , particularly as facilities seal up to retain heat and portable heaters, furnaces, generators, and idling vehicles are used more frequently. Carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless, and early symptoms such as headache, dizziness, and nausea are often mistaken for fatigue or illness, allowing exposure to continue longer than it should.

Federal and state safety agencies that enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces — including vehicle cabs, trailers, maintenance areas, and loading bays — are especially vulnerable during colder months. Snow-clogged exhaust systems can also cause carbon monoxide to accumulate inside running vehicles.

Because carbon monoxide doesn’t present obvious warning signs, it remains one of winter’s most dangerous and underestimated risks. Managing it effectively requires ventilation awareness, equipment maintenance, and monitoring practices that account for seasonal exposure changes — even in spaces that typically feel controlled.

4. Winter PPE Can Create New Challenges

Additional layers are essential in cold weather, but they can also interfere with movement, visibility, and grip if not evaluated carefully. Bulky clothing may restrict range of motion. Gloves can reduce dexterity. Face coverings can affect visibility or the fit of eye and head protection. emphasizes that personal protective equipment must function as a system, particularly when conditions require layering.

For flame-resistant or arc-rated clothing, improper layering can also compromise protection if moisture isn’t managed correctly or incompatible materials are worn together. Winter PPE should support the task at hand — not simply add layers — ensuring protection, mobility, and control work together rather than against one another.

5. UV Exposure Increases When Snow Is on the Ground

Ultraviolet (UV) exposure doesn’t disappear in winter — and in some environments, it intensifies. Snow can reflect up to , increasing exposure for outdoor workers, drivers, and equipment operators even on cold or overcast days.

Because workers are dressed for warmth, winter is often underestimated. Yet exposed areas such as the face, neck, ears, and hands remain vulnerable. Reflected UV rays can also contribute to eye strain and temporary vision impairment, affecting depth perception and situational awareness.

Managing winter UV risk means accounting for environmental reflection and visual strain in planning, reinforcing eye protection and awareness so glare and reduced visibility don’t compromise safe decision-making.

6. Fatigue Builds Faster in Winter

Shorter daylight hours, disrupted sleep patterns, and the added physical effort of working in cold conditions all contribute to . Over time, fatigue affects judgment, reaction time, and situational awareness. continues to link fatigue with increased injury risk across industries — particularly in roles requiring sustained attention, decision-making, or physical coordination.

Because fatigue develops quietly, it can be one of winter’s most underestimated risks. Managing it requires anticipating its cumulative impact — adjusting schedules, workload, and supervision so quiet declines in alertness don’t translate into errors, slowed reactions, or serious incidents.

Turning Awareness Into Action

What these hazards have in common is subtlety. They don’t always announce themselves, and they rarely feel urgent in isolation. But together, they shape how work unfolds throughout the winter season.

Organizations that manage winter risk effectively tend to reassess conditions regularly — indoors as well as outdoors — adjust expectations for pace and equipment performance, and reinforce awareness around cold stress and fatigue. They treat cold-weather workplace safety not as a checklist, but as an operational reality.

At 91������, Risk Management teams work alongside agents and policyholders to help identify these less visible exposures and translate them into practical, site-specific action — before winter conditions disrupt people or operations.

The information provided in this article does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal or financial advice; instead, all information, content, and materials contained in each article are for general informational purposes only.

As winter’s chill gives way to the unpredictability of spring, businesses must proactively prepare for a range of weather-related challenges. From heavy rains and severe thunderstorms to the threat of tornadoes, the season demands a comprehensive approach to ensure safety and continuity. , the United States experienced 27 weather and climate disasters, each causing over $1 billion in damages but, by proactively preparing for these events, businesses can reduce disruptions, help protect employees, and ensure a swift recovery when disaster strikes.

Develop a Comprehensive Emergency Plan

A well-developed emergency plan is critical for navigating severe weather events.

Identify and Label Critical Shut-off Valves: Ensure all water, gas, and sprinkler shut-off valves are clearly marked and that employees are trained on their locations and operation.

Regularly Update Your Business Continuity Plan: , nearly 25% of businesses never reopen after a disaster, making a strong continuity plan essential to long-term recovery. Disruptions to your business can bring operations to a standstill, but with the right preparation, you can keep things moving. Implementing a ensures you remain resilient, even in the face of unexpected challenges.

Conduct Routine Emergency Drills: Routine emergency drills further reinforce preparedness by ensuring employees know how to respond in high-pressure situations. not only enhances safety but can also boost employee confidence in handling emergencies effectively.

Conduct Comprehensive Cleaning and Maintenance

A thorough spring cleaning can prevent minor issues from escalating into significant problems during severe weather.

Landscaping and Tree Care: Landscaping should monitored, as overgrown trees and shrubs close to buildings can cause serious damage during high winds. Keep them trimmed to help mitigate the risk of power outages and property damage.

Clear Gutters and Downspouts: Spring brings increased rainfall, making plumbing and drainage systems particularly vulnerable. Clogged drains and leaky pipes can lead to flooding, mold growth, and expensive repairs. , water damage is a leading cause of structural deterioration in buildings, making regular inspections of plumbing systems a necessity.

Evaluate Walkways and Exterior Areas: Exterior areas such as sidewalks, parking lots, and roofing should be evaluated for damage caused by winter weather. Ensure that fire protection systems, including alarms and emergency lighting, are in working order to safeguard against potential hazards during a storm.

Looking Ahead

Preparing your business for spring weather is not just about avoiding inconvenience—it’s about safeguarding employees, reducing financial risks, and ensuring long-term stability. Stay ahead of the storm by prioritizing safety, reinforcing resilience, and equipping your team with the tools they need to face any challenge.

For more expert insights and actionable strategies, visit our Risk Management page.

Forecast the Weather and Plan for Contingencies

Understanding the weather where tents are placed is paramount to success. There are multiple weather monitoring resources available to business owners. Apps on your personal cell phone such as app, and are free and easy to download.

There is also more sophisticated weather software available for purchase on your desktop computer. These applications can show radar, wind speeds, and bring you live weather updates in the event of severe weather. In many cases, you can have notifications sent to your phone in the event of high winds, heavy rain, or other adverse conditions. A responsible tent rental operation will decline rental if there is severe weather in the forecast that could potentially take down any tents in its path. Having a proactive approach to severe weather is the easiest way to prevent losses.

Understanding the Topography

Another best practice for tent set up is understanding the topography of where you plan to stake your tent. This includes understanding the layout of the ground you will be working on, such as elevations, tree locations, utility lines, and the direction of the wind. Wind funnels can develop depending on geographic features that can enhance the wind speeds in that area. If not properly identified, tents can easily be lost in a windstorm. You should always call the city (Dial 811 or local utility services) before staking your tent to ensure that no utility lines are hit. Finally, understanding the ground elevations can ensure a more stable set up and anchoring can be added depending on the layout.

Anchoring, Weighting, and Framing

Tents should be staked, weighted, or both no matter the conditions. Stakes should be 24 inches in the ground minimally, with weights and ratchet straps utilized for extra security. A heavy-duty tent will have aluminum framing, with solid rectangular pieces instead of traditional poles. This offers greater “flex” in the event of weather. “Tension frames” should be avoided as they offer very little wind resistance or durability. When setting up, never allow only a single person to set up the tent. Teams of 2-3 people are ideal for a safe and efficient set up.

Employee Training

There are a number of employee training resources available to business owners. Employees can learn through apprenticing on the job, trade schools, and online resources. 91������ offers a multitude of risk management resources through SafetyConnect^®, which can provide valuable information and training to employees. Training should be continuous to keep employees sharp when dealing with tent set ups and take-downs. If you have any questions about your tent rental operations or are looking for additional resources from 91������, please contact your agent today.

The materials and information found here are informational resources and do not and should not be construed as direct processional, legal or other advice as to specific facts and circumstances. It is recommend you always seek appropriate professional advice as to your particular circumstances. 91������ disclaims any and all liability for actions taken by you based on the content of these resources.

Understanding the Landscape

Not only is the frequency of storms increasing, but their intensity is also expected to rise due to the effects of climate change. Historical data reveals that the economic repercussions of hurricanes are intensifying, with the cumulative costs of weather and climate disasters over recent decades. Effective preparedness for these events extends beyond having emergency supplies; it involves a strategic and comprehensive approach that encompasses all facets of a business.

“Every company needs to plan ahead for disasters,” explains Anne Marie May, 91������ Regional Vice President, Risk Management. “This includes having a detailed Emergency Response / Business Continuity plan along with periodic safety drills. It takes a village to overcome the physical and emotional impacts of a disaster.”

“As an insurance carrier in the state of Florida, we know hurricanes will happen,” she says. “We expect this, plan for its impact and complete practice drills to identify any gaps. This way, we remain prepared to support our customers, policyholders, and employees in times of emergency.”

Essential Elements of a Disaster Response Kit

Adequate Water and Food Supplies: Ensure a sufficient supply of water and non-perishable food to sustain all personnel for at least three days.

Effective Communication Tools: Include battery-powered or hand-crank radios and ensure access to weather alerts and communications with external authorities through devices endorsed by .

Comprehensive Safety and First Aid Gear: Equip your facility with essential first aid supplies and tools necessary for immediate repairs and personal protection.

Regular maintenance of is essential for ensuring readiness. Be sure to store supplies in easily accessible locations and conduct regular checks to replace expired items and adapt the kits to changing needs and new insights.

Disasters can also strike unpredictably, making it imperative for businesses to prepare not just at their main operations centers but across all potential points of impact, including remote work locations. In the event of a hurricane or severe weather event, businesses can stay crucially informed with the most up-to-date information through authoritative sources like and the .

Strategic Implementation

With the increase in hurricane activity predicted, businesses must adopt a proactive and strategic approach to disaster preparedness. This involves not only setting up and maintaining emergency kits but also training staff, conducting regular drills, and establishing clear communication channels for crisis management.

For further guidance and tailored resources on hurricane preparedness, check out our complete library of hurricane preparedness resources at 91������’s Resource Center.

These are just a few of the harsh realities that businesses may face in the event of a major emergency. Natural disasters can strike at any moment, posing a serious threat to the survival of your business. However, the key to weathering such storms lies in proactive planning and preparation. Businesses that bounce back quickly from disasters are those that have meticulously planned ahead. They know precisely what steps to take when disaster strikes, and perhaps most importantly, they’ve invested in the right insurance coverage to fund their recovery efforts. In the face of uncertainty, preparation is not just prudent—it’s essential for survival.

Assessing the Risks

Understanding the unique risks posed by natural disasters is the first step in building resilience. into flood-prone areas, guiding businesses to assess their vulnerability. According to FEMA, floods are the most common and costly natural disasters in the United States, with an average of $8.2 billion in damages annually. Consider downloading , where you can receive real-time weather and emergency alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five locations nationwide.

Crafting a Disaster Recovery Blueprint

that 40% of businesses never reopen after a disaster, underscoring the urgency of preparedness. A robust serves as a lifeline during turbulent times, encompassing proactive measures and swift response strategies.

Central to any resilience strategy is a robust disaster recovery plan that outlines clear steps for response and recovery in the aftermath of a catastrophe. Duplicate record-keeping, off-site data storage, and meticulous documentation of critical business activities and resources are essential elements of an effective recovery plan. Moreover, identifying alternative facilities, equipment, and suppliers, and establishing emergency response protocols are integral components of disaster preparedness. By developing a comprehensive recovery roadmap and empowering employees with the tools and training they need to execute it, businesses can minimize downtime, mitigate losses, and expedite the path to recovery.

Rigorous Emergency Response

In the chaotic aftermath of a disaster, swift and decisive action is paramount to preserving life, limiting property damage, and ensuring continuity of operations. Establishing an , and conducting regular drills to familiarize employees with their roles and responsibilities are critical steps in preparedness.

From notifying authorities and evacuating the premises to securing essential supplies and communications, a well-executed emergency response plan can mean the difference between chaos and control in the face of adversity. Investing in duplicate record-keeping and off-site data storage, is also a key measure in ensuring continuity even in the face of data loss or infrastructure damage. By prioritizing preparedness and equipping employees with the knowledge and resources they need to respond effectively, businesses can navigate the challenges of disaster with confidence and resilience.

Fortifying Insurance Coverage

Insurance serves as a financial safety net in the aftermath of a disaster, but adequate coverage is paramount. FEMA highlights that of businesses lack sufficient insurance coverage for natural disasters, leaving them vulnerable to substantial losses. From covering the costs of property damage and business interruption to reimbursing for additional expenses incurred during the restoration period, comprehensive insurance coverage provides the financial security needed to weather the storm. Property insurance policies should be meticulously reviewed and supplemented with flood insurance, particularly for businesses located in high-risk areas. By regularly reviewing and updating their insurance policies, businesses can ensure they have adequate coverage to protect against the indirect costs of disasters and facilitate a swift and seamless recovery.

Looking Ahead

Preparing for natural disasters demands proactive planning, collaboration, and resource mobilization. By heeding the insights from authoritative sources and leveraging available resources, businesses can fortify their resilience and navigate the turbulent waters of natural calamities.

Embracing a culture of preparedness and investing in risk mitigation measures not only safeguards businesses but also fosters long-term sustainability. As businesses embark on their journey to weather the storm, they emerge stronger, more resilient, and better equipped to confront future challenges head-on.

91������ has a robust catalog for natural disasters, driven by a cohesive team of passionate specialists. Check out our complete library of hurricane preparedness resources.

The information provided in this article does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials contained in this article are for general informational purposes only. 

Closely resembling 2004’s Hurricane Charley’s wind speed, pressure, location, and landfall time, the storm differentiated itself from Charley and a recent lineup of Gulf hurricanes in diameter (~290 miles) and speed (~8-9 mph). This combination led to record-breaking storm surges of over 7’ in downtown Fort Myers and nearly 14’ at Fort Myers Beach.

Aerial images of a missing Sanibel Causeway, boatless marinas, sand in place of homes, and ground images of rooftops surrounded by water and piles of cars, boats, and their broken pieces illustrated that in days, this storm set off a recovery effort of years for the many affected areas. Hurricane Ian was estimated to have caused — the third most costly U.S. hurricane on record following Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and Hurricane Harvey in 2017.

As we recognize the anniversary of Hurricane Ian, and the Florida area repairs from Hurricane Idalia, read on to hear from 91������’s local experts on the company’s preparedness strategy and specific response to hurricanes for policyholders, agency partners and the Florida community.

How Does 91������ Plan for Hurricanes?

With offices across the country, 91������ has a plan in place to prepare in advance for disasters.

“We have a multidisciplinary Hurricane Operations team that initiates engagement when a hurricane threat is projected to hit one of our operating states,” said Anne Marie May, 91������’s regional vice president of Risk Management in Tampa, Florida.

“The objectives of each operations meeting are to execute our emergency response protocol, including internal and external communications, employee safety, and continuance of business operations. The team is comprised of leadership from operations such as Claims, Underwriting, Risk Management, Building Facilities, IT, Marketing and Human Resources. We monitor the storm’s progress along with our company’s potential exposure to damages.”

“During Hurricane Ian, employees located in flood zones had to evacuate and a majority of us lost power intermittently. Our business continuity efforts allowed work to be sent to other 91������ operations so business processes were not interrupted,” said May. “Hurricane Idalia closed our Florida for two days in accordance with county requirements and flooding. We relocated our claims operations out of state and employees who had power worked remotely. When operations resumed at the location and the office reopened, we informed our agency partners.”

Local Support from 91������

91������’s Corporate Property Claims Manager, Rick Powell, visited several policyholders after Hurricane Ian, getting a firsthand look at the impact on their clients’ businesses.

“We visited everyone with damaged property sites. We were there to reiterate that ‘we are here for you to help put you back together,” Powell said.

Powell made sure any questions policyholders had were answered, including coverages, timelines, and what happens next. A claims process would begin soon; the visits and conversations aimed to make the whole claims process a little easier on the business side.

“The hurricane passed within 30 miles of my house… Because I was so close, I was able to go down there right away,” said Powell, explaining that as 91������ claims team members like him receive claims, they make contact as quickly as possible.

“Our goal is to make contact the same day we get the claim – same-day contact in interviewing the policyholders, finding out the damage, and explaining to them the coverages.”

Helping Other Businesses Prepare

“Every company needs to plan ahead for disasters,” said May. “This includes having a detailed Emergency Response / Business Continuity plan along with periodic safety drills. It takes a village to overcome the physical and emotional impacts of a disaster. 

“As an insurance carrier in the state of Florida, we know hurricanes will happen,” said May. “We expect this, plan for its impact and complete practice drills to identify any gaps. This way, we remain prepared to support our customers, policyholders and employees in times of emergency.”

LEARN MORE

91������ has a robust catalog for natural disasters, driven by a cohesive team of passionate specialists. Check out our complete library of hurricane preparedness resources.