Winter Safety at the Work Site: Keeping Alberta Workers Safe All Season

As the temperature drops, so does the margin for safety at Alberta worksites. Snow, ice, shorter daylight hours, and cold stress can all increase the risk of injuries and slow productivity. With the right preparation and seasonal planning, employers can keep operations running smoothly and keeping workers safe, all winter long.

Preparing Your Work Site for Winter

Whether your team works indoors or outdoors, winter conditions create new challenges that must be addressed in your hazard assessments. Before the first snowfall, take time to identify and control seasonal risks that could impact worker safety and efficiency.

Key steps to prepare your site:

• Keep walkways, entryways, and loading docks clear of ice and snow.

• Store shovels, de-icer, and sand near frequently used areas.

• Ensure parking lots are plowed, sanded, and well lit.

• Inspect heating, ventilation, and monitoring systems to ensure they’re ready for colder temperatures.

• Test carbon monoxide detectors and exhaust systems.

• Monitor weather forecasts daily and consider early dismissals or work-from-home options during storms.

Working Outdoors in Cold Conditions

Many Alberta industries, including construction, oilfield, and utilities ,operate year-round, even through harsh winters. Changing conditions can make outdoor work unpredictable and dangerous without proper planning.

Watch for these seasonal hazards:

• Frost and ice can form suddenly and create unexpected slip hazards. Keep walkways sanded and well lit.

• Reduced daylight means extra lighting is essential. Position lights carefully to avoid shadows and glare.

• Working at heights becomes riskier in winter, snow and ice can destabilize ladders, scaffolding, and supports.

• Snow loads add weight to roofs or raised platforms. Always confirm load limits before accessing these areas.

  
  

Protecting Workers from Cold Exposure

Cold weather affects everyone differently. Prolonged exposure can lead to frostbite, hypothermia, and reduced performance. Employers can minimize risks through planning, education, and engineering controls.

Best practices for cold-weather protection:

• Allow workers time to acclimatize before full shifts.

• Provide heated shelters or warming areas where possible.

• Shield workers from wind and drafts.

• Follow a work/warm-up schedule to prevent overexposure.

• Implement a buddy system to monitor for signs of cold stress.

• Train staff to recognize symptoms of frostbite and hypothermia.

Winter Safety Basics for Every Worker

Sometimes the simplest precautions make the biggest difference. Encourage workers to:

• Walk carefully and take small, steady steps.

• Keep hands free and use available handrails.

• Dress appropriately, insulated, waterproof footwear and warm gloves or mitts are a must.

• Assume all wet or shiny surfaces are slippery.

Driving for Work During Winter

Driving in Alberta’s winter conditions demands extra caution and preparation. Employers and workers should ensure vehicles are winter-ready and equipped for emergencies.

Before heading out:

• Equip vehicles with matching snow tires and check tire pressure regularly.

• Winterize vehicles, inspect batteries, exhaust, and heating systems.

• Keep a winter emergency kit in every work vehicle.

• Remove snow and ice from all windows, mirrors, and lights before driving.

• Turn on headlights and taillights in poor visibility (automatic daytime lights aren’t enough).

• Review your winter driving policy and postpone travel during unsafe conditions.

Safety Doesn’t Stop When the Temperature Drops

Winter may be unpredictable, but workplace safety shouldn’t be. By preparing early, training staff, and maintaining awareness, employers can protect their crews and prevent costly incidents throughout the season.

Key Takeaway

Alberta winters are harsh, but with the right preparation, they don’t have to be hazardous.Take time to review your seasonal hazards, reinforce cold-weather procedures, and provide workers with the tools, training, and protection they need to stay safe.

If your company needs help updating its winter safety program or hazard assessment, contact HSE Safety Consulting Group. Together, we’ll help you build a safer, more resilient workplace, all year long.

A proactive safety culture today can prevent cold-weather incidents tomorrow.