Winter is cold in Massachusetts, and it can be hard on workers. You may think that workplace accidents happen less during this season because people slow down and take more breaks to avoid the cold. However, in some cases, workplace injuries actually increase in winter. Here’s what you need to know about winter workers’ injuries.
The nature of workplace injuries in winter
Some of the most common workplace injuries during winter involve slips and falls on snow and ice. Workers may face additional injury risks when they slip, such as falling through a frozen surface or having to break their own fall with equipment, like chainsaws, that could lead to more serious damage. The back, shoulders, arms and legs are the parts of the body that tend to sustain workplace injuries in such circumstances.
Extreme cold can also cause frostbite that leads to workplace accidents. Some workers use their bare hands to fix machinery or clear snow, which can lead to injuries. Moreover, when workers get exposed to wet surfaces for long periods of time in winter weather, they may be at risk for hypothermia.
How can workers avoid workplace accidents during winter?
Some of the best ways to avoid workplace injuries in winter are by wearing appropriate clothing and footwear. Workers should make sure that their hands, feet and head are warm enough for outdoor work on cold days. It’s also a good idea to use hand and foot warmers, which are available for purchase online.
When it comes to workplace safety during winter weather conditions, there is no substitute for common sense. If the cold temperatures make you uncomfortable or limit your ability to move quickly and with a full range of motion, then you should avoid working outdoors.
Workplace accidents are often devastating during winter, but they’re possible to prevent by taking precautions to stay warm and safe. As a worker, you need to know how your workplace operates in cold weather conditions, whether it’s too dangerous for you to work outside or not, and arm yourself with the right workplace protection equipment.