Trekker is a Florida- and Caribbean-based company, so we don’t generally face a lot of ice and blizzards in the winter. And, while many of our readers live and work in the same areas, we do have readers around the US and the globe. Plus, it can get significantly cold where we are during the winter, especially for overnight crews.
So, despite our locale, we thought it important to cover some basic winter weather safety tips for construction workers and construction sites.
Staying Safe on the Job in Cold Weather
- Regularly inspect the entire site—including walkways, transport paths, ladders, scaffolds, etc.—for ice and other potential hazards
- Use salt or sand to melt ice and improve traction whenever and wherever necessary
- Clearly mark icy areas or other dangers
- Keep salt or sand and shovels in an easily accessible location at the job site
- Remove icicles wherever they form to prevent them from being knocked down and possibly injuring someone or damaging materials
- Drape tarps over ladders and scaffolds when they’re not in use to protect them from moisture, ice, or snow accumulation
- Always perform pre- and post-operation heavy equipment inspections, keeping an eye out for ice formations, impacted snow, and other winter-specific concerns
- Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for warming up light and and heavy equipment before use, as various components can be affected by low temperatures
- Ensure that all machine fluids in use—like engine and hydraulic oils—are rated for the temperatures you’re experiencing, and replace them as necessary
- Clear off snow, ice, or debris from machine windshields, lights, and mirrors before operation
- Drain all fluid from air compressor tanks after each use
- Use antifreeze oil in pneumatic tools and air hoses
- Dress in layers for warmth and so you can remove some clothing items if you get too hot while working
- Cover as much of your skin as possible to prevent it from drying out, becoming numb or painful in the cold, or even developing frostbite
- Stop what you’re doing and warm your hands if they’re getting numb, as this creates dangers like dropping or failing to properly control tools
- Schedule regular breaks for workers to warm up and recharge
- Provide a sheltered, heated break area and some warm noncaffeinated beverages
- Educate all workers on signs of frostbite, hypothermia, and weather-related fatigue, and have managers and supervisors monitor workers for any indications
- Get emergency help for anyone experience symptoms like uncontrolled shivering, slurred speech, lack of coordination, lethargy, or confused behavior
- Provide instructions to workers for what to do if they become stranded in a vehicle or heavy equipment in dangerously low temperatures
- Keep an eye on the weather forecast and ensure that crews have enough time to thoroughly secure the construction site before severe winter weather hits
