Winter weather can make every day work more dangerous, especially for outdoor workers. Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures create slippery surfaces, poor visibility, and harsh working conditions that increase the chances of injuries. Cold weather can also affect equipment, vehicles, and physical performance, making routine tasks more challenging. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) explains that winter hazards are not limited to cold stress and may also include driving risks, snow removal dangers, equipment injuries, slips and falls, and electrical hazards. Identifying these risks helps workers and employers prepare ahead of time and improve safety during winter operation.

Winter Driving Hazards

Driving in snow and icy conditions increases crash risks because roads become slippery and visibility is reduced. Although employers cannot control the weather, they can improve winter travel safety by providing proper driver training and keeping vehicles well maintained.

• Checking brakes, tires, and battery
• Inspecting antifreeze and oil levels
• Testing lights, heaters, and wipers
• Carrying emergency supplies

Emergency kits should include blankets, flashlights, jumper cables, water, and traction aids like sand or cat litter.

Work Zone Traffic Safety

Workers in road construction or maintenance zones face higher danger during winter because vehicles can skid or lose control on icy roads.

• Using cones, barriers, and warning signs
• Wearing high-visibility clothing
• Setting up controlled traffic zones

Visibility is especially important during snowstorms and low-light conditions.

Stranded in a Vehicle

Winter storms can leave workers stranded during travel. OSHA recommends staying inside the vehicle and calling for help. Running the engine briefly for heat and keeping the exhaust pipe clear of snow helps lower carbon monoxide risks.

• Use blankets or spare clothing for warmth
• Watch for frostbite or hypothermia
• Avoid overexertion

Staying inside the vehicle improves survival chances during severe winter conditions.

Snow Shoveling Hazards

Shoveling snow can place heavy strain on the body, especially in freezing temperatures. Cold weather increases physical stress and raises injury risks.

• Back injuries
• Exhaustion
• Dehydration
• Heart strain

Safe practices include warming up first, lifting small amounts of snow, pushing instead of lifting when possible, and using proper lifting posture.

Using Powered Equipment

Equipment like snow blowers introduces mechanical hazards during winter operations. Injuries often occur when workers attempt to clear jams while machines are running.

• Disconnect power before maintenance
• Never clear jams by hand
• Keep hands away from moving parts
• Refuel only when equipment is cool

Following these precautions helps prevent serious injuries.

Roof Snow Removal and Working at Heights

Removing snow from roofs is one of the most dangerous winter tasks. Snow and ice create slippery surfaces and may hide skylights or weak areas. Heavy snow loads can also increase the risk of structural collapse.

• Inspecting structures before access
• Using fall protection systems
• Wearing non-slip footwear
• Using proper ladders or aerial lifts

Planning roof work carefully helps control fall hazards.

Slips on Snow and Ice

Slips and falls are among the most common winter workplace injuries. Snow and ice create hazardous walking surfaces across job sites and parking areas.

• Clearing snow quickly
• Applying rock salt or deicer
• Wearing insulated boots with strong traction
• Walking slowly on icy surfaces

Taking smaller steps improves balance on slippery ground.

Downed Power Line Hazards

Winter storms can damage electrical systems and create life-threatening hazards. Moisture from snow increases the risk of electrocution, especially during repair work.

• Contact with energized lines
• Falling poles or branches
• Fires from damaged equipment

All downed power lines should be treated as energized and avoided.

Working Near Damaged Power Lines

Workers who are not trained in electrical work should never approach downed or damaged power lines. Only qualified utility workers should handle repairs.

• Keeping a safe distance
• Reporting hazards immediately
• Avoiding contact with nearby objects

These precautions help prevent fatal electrical incidents.

Conclusion

Winter weather brings many hazards that can affect workers at the same time. Driving risks, slippery surfaces, heavy snow removal, equipment injuries, and electrical dangers all become more serious in cold and snowy conditions.

OSHA recommends being prepared, providing proper training, and following safety precautions to reduce risks during winter work.

By learning about these hazards and using safe practices, such as wearing protective gear, using the right equipment, and reporting dangers as soon as they are noticed, employers and workers can keep workplaces safer and prevent injuries during snow, ice, and freezing temperatures.