Winter and Cold-Weather Safety

Cold stress

Working in cold conditions drains the body. Crews dress in layers, take breaks in warm spaces and watch each other for signs of trouble such as shivering, numbness or confusion. Hot drinks and warm-up areas are provided where needed. Supervisors adjust the work when conditions get severe, and tasks that need fine hand control are scheduled with that in mind.

Wind chill matters as much as the temperature. A calm minus ten and a windy minus ten feel very different, and our supervisors consider both when planning outdoor tasks.

Ice, snow and footing

Slips and falls increase in winter. Walkways, ramps, stairs and parking areas are cleared and treated. Ladders and lifts need extra care on icy or snowy ground. Materials stored outdoors are kept organized so they can be reached without climbing over snow.

Our mechanical crews understand heating and ventilation, so they help set up temporary heat in a way that protects the building and the people in it.

Temporary heat and carbon monoxide

Temporary heaters keep work areas warm enough for materials and people, but they bring fire and air quality risks. Fuel-burning heaters can produce carbon monoxide, which cannot be seen or smelled.

• Use heaters appropriate for the space
• Provide ventilation and keep combustibles away
• Monitor air quality where fuel-burning equipment is used
• Know the symptoms of exposure and what to do

Short days and early dark

In the northern prairies, winter daylight can be short. Crews working early or late need good lighting, clear paths and attention to vehicle traffic. Our project managers plan start times and lighting so people are not working in poorly lit areas.

Because we run our own electrical, we can often install temporary lighting and power ourselves, quickly, where the site needs it.