Protecting Your Employees From Harsh Winter Weather

Winter Storm Elliot wreaked havoc across nearly the entire country last week, plunging temperatures below zero and wind chills far below that. For those unable to work remotely, it presented a nightmare scenario of choosing to still go to work in potentially lethal conditions.

This is where companies need to work with their employees to ensure they’re staying safe. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) urges vigilance when severe cold – or heat – is imminent.

What Does OSHA Say About Protecting Employees?

OSHA technically has no regulations that explicitly describe what companies should do to protect their employees from bad weather, but OSHA still stipulates that employers have an obligation to provide, “a place of employment which are free from recognized hazards.” Taking that into account, there are many considerations a company can make for their employees:

• Travel to/from work and meetings: There’s no reason to put people at risk, especially given hybrid working capabilities. If meeting remotely isn’t an option, then delay the meeting. Few things are important enough to risk someone getting injured in a car accident on icy roads.
• Provide plenty of breaks: This is especially true if you have anyone working outdoors. They should be given ample time indoors to dry damp clothes and raise their body temperature. Consider providing personal protective equipment (PPE) for these workers as well. If possible, have relief worker(s) ready so more breaks can be taken.
• Prevent harmful falls: Snow and ice can make company property treachorous. Salt the entryways and parking lots so driving and walking is made as safe as possible for employees. For those working outdoors, remind employees to wear shoes with good traction. If ladders are necessary to clear snow and ice, ensure they're used safely.
• Make indoor spaces comfortable: OSHA recommends keeping indoor spaces between 68 and 75 degrees. Allow space heaters to be used at their desk, or anything else that makes their work environment comfortable, so long as it doesn't disrupt others.
• Provide training: Teach employees how to recognize symptoms of cold stress. Ensure there are no fire hazards when space heaters are in use. Cold stress symptoms include: reddening skin, tingling pain, swelling, and numbness. Train maintenance workers on ice and snow removal from roofs and awnings to prevent injury.
• Monitor conditions: If weather begins to deteriorate, or it's forecasted to do so, allow employees to leave the office early so they can make it home before the worst arrives. Have a reliable way to communicate with everyone regardless of where they're working. 

While most of this is to help prepare those working outdoors or in uninsulated indoor spaces for potentially harsh weather conditions, the same principles and protections can be extended to office workers as well. They might not be able to dig their car out of heavy snow, or their tires might have deflated due to the frigid air. If the heat should stop working or a pipe burst in the office building, know who to call ahead of time. Have contingencies in place so that you can be as prepared as possible to address cold weather when it happens.

These plans should be in writing and made easily accessible for all employees to read. Taking the time to have these precautions in place will save a lot of time and money down the road. Your employees will appreciate the time you took to be proactive and protect their safety.