Strategies for Staying Warm on Cold Jobsites

As winter quickly sets in, it’s crucial for construction crews to recognize the signs of cold-related illnesses and how to prevent them. Conditions such as hypothermia, frostbite, and dehydration pose serious risks for those in the home building industry, in addition to snow and ice increasing the chances of slips and falls. According to the National Association of Home Builders, employers should take precautions to keep jobsites safe before work begins by clearing snow and ice, salting walkways and access roads, monitoring weather forecasts, training workers to spot symptoms of cold stress, and limiting workers' exposure to extreme temperatures.

During the workday, workers can further protect themselves by using space heaters, changing into dry, warm clothing if their gear gets wet, and knowing the proper emergency procedures to follow if someone begins showing signs of cold-related illness.

Cold weather also brings an elevated risk of construction jobsite fires. Workers should also understand the safe use of temporary heating devices both on construction sites and at home.

OSHA requires jobsites using temporary heating devices to have a fire extinguisher available. When using heaters in the vicinity of combustible tarpaulins, canvas, or similar coverings, then the heaters must be located at least 10 feet from the coverings. Gasoline and other flammable liquids must also be stored in safety cans outside or in approved storage facilities.