About

By Jesse Balbin, ROII Field Representative

If you've been in construction long enough, you know winter doesn't stop projects from moving forward. Homes still need to be framed, roofs still need to be installed, and schedules don't always cooperate with the weather. What does change is the level of risk.

As temperatures drop and rain, frost, and ice become more common, I start seeing the same issues pop up on jobsites across Washington: slippery walking surfaces, workers wearing the wrong gear, visibility problems, and equipment that wasn't prepared for colder conditions.

The good news is that a little planning before winter arrives can help prevent injuries, reduce downtime, and keep your crew productive throughout the season.

Here are a few areas I recommend focusing on before the cold weather hits.

Start with the Jobsite

Winter conditions can turn a safe jobsite into a hazard overnight.

Take time to look for:

• Slippery walkways and access points
• Muddy or uneven paths
• Frost-covered decks and stairs
• Poor drainage that creates standing water
• Inadequate lighting during shorter daylight hours

A quick morning inspection can help identify issues before someone gets hurt.

Make Sure Workers Have the Right Gear

One of the biggest mistakes I see is workers trying to get through winter with the same PPE they wore during summer.

Cold, wet conditions require different protection.

Look for gear that provides:

• Waterproof protection
• Insulation without excessive bulk
• Good grip and dexterity
• Slip-resistant footwear
• High-visibility outerwear when needed

The goal isn't simply to keep workers warm. It's to keep them warm while allowing them to work safely and efficiently.

Don't Ignore Cold Stress

Most workers know when they're uncomfortable, but they don't always recognize the warning signs of cold stress.

Watch out for:

• Excessive shivering
• Numb fingers or toes
• Loss of coordination
• Fatigue
• Confusion or unusual behavior

Encourage workers to speak up before these symptoms become serious.

Providing a warm place to take breaks and access to hot drinks can make a significant difference during colder days.

Winterize Equipment Before You Need It

Cold weather affects more than people.

Before temperatures drop, inspect:

• Vehicle batteries
• Portable generators
• Heaters
• Air compressors
• Power cords and extension cords
• Hydraulic systems

It's much easier to address maintenance issues now rather than when equipment won't start on a freezing morning.

Cold Weather Jobsite Readiness Checklist

Use this checklist to prepare your crews and jobsites before winter weather arrives.

Jobsite Conditions

Remove snow, ice, mud, and standing water from walking surfaces

Apply traction materials where needed

Improve lighting in work and access areas

Inspect ladders, stairs, and scaffolding daily

Establish safe material storage locations

Worker Protection

Review winter safety expectations with crews

Train workers to recognize cold stress symptoms

Schedule regular warm-up breaks

Provide access to hot beverages

Check in regularly with workers exposed to the elements

PPE

Inspect gloves, boots, rain gear, and outerwear

Replace damaged or worn winter gear

Verify footwear provides adequate traction

Ensure workers can maintain good visibility and hearing

Make sure clothing allows safe movement and dexterity

Equipment & Tools

Test batteries and charging systems

Service generators and portable heaters

Inspect extension cords and power tools

Stock ice melt or traction materials

Complete manufacturer-recommended winter maintenance

The Bottom Line

Winter weather is unavoidable in Washington, but many cold-weather injuries are preventable.

Taking the time now to prepare your jobsite, equipment, and crew can help keep everyone safer when temperatures drop and conditions become more challenging.

A few simple steps before winter arrives can make a big difference in keeping your projects moving and your workers going home safely every day.