Winter is coming. For many people throughout North America, that means unbearably cold temperatures, snow, and ice are also in the near future. It may be beautiful to watch, but winter conditions complicate outdoor work – including Sentry Electrical Group’s industry-leading electric power construction work.

So what should workers do to ensure their safety, as well as the safety of the entire job site, in these harsh seasonal conditions?

“Unlike other industries that work in a controlled environment, safety precautions needed in the construction industry vary based on weather,” said Sentry’s Safety Director Davis Webb. “We work with our crews to ensure that they not only know what precautions to take, but are consistently protecting themselves and others in these extreme weather conditions.”

Sentry Electrical Group employees understand extra safety precautions are needed when working in extreme weather conditions.

These precautions include:

• Prepare your vehicle. Before hitting the road, whether for a quick commute or a long trip, be sure that your vehicle is ready. This includes routine maintenance (oil level, gasoline, wiper fluid, tire pressure and condition, etc.) and stocked for emergencies (phone charger, blanket, water, jumper cables, etc.).
• Select appropriate clothing and PPE. Wearing correct PPE is always essential. However, the type of PPE worn may change in winter environments. Wear insulated PPE when available and protect the body from moisture. Additionally, ensure work boots have adequate tread to prevent slips, trips, and falls.
• Keep warm and dry. Working in cold weather increases the risk of cold weather-related conditions, such as hypothermia and frostbite. Wear cold weather and water protection that is approved for work to prevent severe body stress.
• Walk like a penguin. Imitating a penguin (feet facing slightly out, shuffle feet, walk slowly, arms by side) can actually help you avoiding slipping and falling when walking on slick surfaces.
• Give yourself extra time. Whether walking, driving, or performing work, always give yourself extra time in the winter. Winter tasks often take longer to complete. Moving faster in hazardous conditions to speed up these tasks increases your chance of incident or injury. Instead, give yourself extra time and take it slow.
• Stay hydrated. You may think the importance of drinking water is only necessary in the hot summer months. But staying hydrated is also very important in extremely cold conditions. Dehydration actually increases the risk of frostbite.
• Avoid overexertion. Working in cold weather puts extra stress on your heart. Be sure to take breaks and not push your body past its limits when working in these conditions.

“With the cold weather approaching, our teams are taking time to discuss potential weather-related hazards to ensure the safety of all our employees throughout their work days,” said Davis.