The cold weather is here: Are your construction workers well equipped?

In a little over a week, we will officially be in the month of November. It is unbelievable how fast this year has flown by. Usually around the end of the year, many construction projects come to a halt due to cold weather. This year, some of these jobs have been be paused all year long due to the current economy. Although this is true, some construction jobs still continue through out the year.

Weather temperatures throughout many of the states will continue to drop as the year goes by. It is once again time to consider the safety of construction workers in cold weather. "Colder temperatures can have an impact on employees in ways that may not be immediately obvious (Osha Observer)." There have been many studies in the past that analyze the relationship between productivity and temperature. Workers don't tend to react as quickly as they do in room temperature. Regardless of a person’s experience and motivation, any manual work becomes extremely difficult below -40° F and construction equipment also is rarely operated (ENR.com). The effect of snowfall and wind velocity can greatly impact anyone that's working in cold weather. Manual tasks take 2.2 times longer than usual and equipment operations 1.3 times longer when the temperature is 20° F, the wind is 20 mph, and there is moderate snowfall.

These statistics can unfortunately increase the chances of work accidents involving power tools, electrical wiring or any other task that requires delicate and precise hand movements. Snow, ice and freezing temperatures can also increase the number of falls in the workplace. Construction workers must also bear some of the responsibility for their safety. Layers of clothing do add extra warmth but workers
must also make sure that their layers aren't hindering their mobility. Extra layers can also easily snag on scaffolding or other sharp and protruding surfaces. Employers should consider items such as specialty cold-weather gloves, work tents, work vests, and etc. Remember to keep your employees safe!

OSHA warns, "When the body is unable to warm itself, serious cold-related illnesses and injuries may occur and permanent tissue damage and death may result." OSHA recommends taking a number of precautions for workers who are working under cold-weather conditions. Some of them are:
-Recognize the environmental and workplace conditions that lead to potential cold-induced illnesses and injuries.
-Train your workforce about cold-induced illnesses and injuries.
-Take frequent short breaks in warm, dry shelters to allow the body to warm up.
-Perform work during the warmest part of the day.

Sources:
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