Winter is Here: A Perfect Time to Review FRA’s Safety Alerts
For most of us, winter has officially arrived, and for many in the forest products industry, this season brings its own set of challenges. We know firsthand that an essential part of our workforce operates outdoors, often in cold, demanding conditions, and in some locations mechanical equipment just doesn’t operate well at -40 F. From foresters and loggers to truck drivers and mill workers, cold weather safety is a top priority. That’s why winter is the perfect time to revisit FRA’s Safety Alerts, which offer valuable insights to keep you and your team safe.
Understanding the Risks of Working in Cold Weather
Prolonged exposure to cold conditions can lead to frostbite, hypothermia, and other cold-related illnesses, which can escalate quickly if not addressed. OSHA highlights the importance of proper preparation for outdoor work during the winter months. Important things to consider include:
- Layered Clothing: Insulate with layers of breathable, moisture-wicking fabric. Outer layers should repel wind and water to prevent heat loss.
- Frequent Breaks: Schedule regular breaks in warm areas to reduce exposure time.
- Proper Training: Ensure that workers can recognize the signs of cold-related illnesses, such as numbness, shivering, and confusion.
- Protective Gear: Use insulated gloves, boots, and face coverings to protect extremities.
- Hydration and Nutrition: Dehydration can still occur in cold weather, so encourage water intake alongside warm, high-energy snacks.
These foundational practices can significantly reduce risks associated with cold weather, but they must be supplemented with situational awareness and job-specific precautions.
Lessons from Past Winter Accidents
FRA Safety Alerts have highlighted some unfortunate incidents that serve as critical reminders of how dangerous winter work conditions can be. For example:
- Snow-Weighted Tarp Incident: A logging truck operator suffered a broken wrist while rolling up a snow-laden tarp. The crank handle snapped under the weight, causing the driver to fall. This incident highlighted the importance of parking under shelter, rolling up tarps to prevent snow buildup, and wearing traction aids like ice cleats to avoid falls.
22-SA-03 - Loader Slip on Ice: A trucking supervisor slipped and fell while climbing onto a loader on a snowy, icy site. Despite using three points of contact, he bruised his ribs in the fall. This incident highlighted the need for proper non-slip footwear, tapping surfaces to check for ice, and climbing equipment cautiously without carrying items.
21-SA-20 - Truck Rolls on Sloped Road: On a snowy slope, a log truck with frozen brakes began to roll, colliding with another parked truck. While no injuries occurred, the incident caused significant damage. Key takeaways include conducting risk assessments before parking on slopes, using wheel chocks, and inspecting brakes regularly during cold weather to prevent unintentional movement.
18-SA-07 - Logger Hypothermia Incident: A truck driver noticed signs of hypothermia in a solo logger after a rainy fall day, including slurred speech and clumsiness. The driver intervened, providing warm food, dry clothes, and encouragement to stop work. This incident emphasized the importance of recognizing hypothermia symptoms, even in mild weather, and taking proactive steps to prevent cold-related illnesses.
22-SA-15
By reviewing these and other Safety Alerts, workers can learn from past incidents and adopt practices to avoid similar accidents.
Stay Informed, Stay Safe
Winter weather may create additional hazards, but with the right preparation and a commitment to safety, our industry can navigate these challenges. FRA’s Safety Alerts provide actionable guidance to address the unique risks we face in forestry and forest product operations.
If you’d like to review more FRA Safety Alerts, visit our website and select Safety Alerts under the Resources tab. You will need member access, so if you don’t have your credentials at hand, reach out to your region manager.
