Working safely through winter is essential, as cold and winter weather can introduce additional health and safety risks in the workplace. Low temperatures, poor weather conditions, and reduced daylight can all affect employees’ wellbeing and increase the likelihood of accidents. Employers have a duty to assess these risks and put appropriate controls in place to keep workers safe.
Working in cold conditions can have a significant impact on both health and performance. Prolonged exposure to low temperatures may lead to discomfort, reduced concentration, and an increased risk of injury. In more severe cases, cold conditions can contribute to conditions such as hypothermia or cold stress, particularly for those working outdoors or in unheated environments.
Cold hands and stiff joints can also reduce dexterity, increasing the likelihood of mistakes when handling tools, machinery, or equipment. Fatigue can set in more quickly, further raising the risk of accidents.
Maintaining a comfortable working temperature is an important part of protecting employees’ health. In indoor workplaces, heating should be provided where necessary, and doors or windows should be managed to prevent excessive heat loss.
For outdoor workers or those in cold environments, suitable protective measures should be considered. This may include ensuring access to warm, weather-appropriate clothing, such as insulated gloves and waterproof footwear. Regular breaks in warm areas, access to hot drinks, and rotating tasks to limit prolonged exposure to the cold can also help reduce risk.
Health and safety legislation requires employers to provide a working environment that is safe and without health risks. While the law does not specify a maximum workplace temperature, it does set guidance on minimum temperatures.
For indoor work, the recommended minimum temperature is:
If temperatures fall below these levels, employers should take action to address the issue, such as improving heating or adjusting work practices. For outdoor work, employers must assess the risks of cold exposure and implement suitable control measures.
A winter-specific risk assessment is an effective way to identify hazards associated with cold weather. This should consider:
Based on the assessment, appropriate controls can be introduced. These may include changes to work schedules, provision of personal protective equipment (PPE), safe systems of work, and clear procedures for extreme weather conditions.
Winter weather significantly increases the risk of slips, trips, and falls due to icy, wet, or slippery surfaces. These incidents are a leading cause of workplace injuries during colder months.
To manage these risks, employers should ensure:
Cold and winter weather present predictable but manageable risks in the workplace. By understanding the hazards, following legal guidance, carrying out effective risk assessments, and implementing practical control measures, employers can help protect workers’ health and safety throughout the winter months.
Here at HPC, we have knowledgeable and experienced health and safety consultants who are available to support you with your health and safety requirements.
To find out more information or support with your working safely through winter, get in contact with our team of experts.
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