8 Must-Know Tips for Industrial Winter Safety
Stay safe with these industrial winter safety guidelines.
Winter is upon us. Though sparkling snow is enchanting, winter poses some major hazards if you haven’t prepared for it. Failing to recognize and respect the dangers of winter is careless.
Whether you are traveling through, working in, or enjoying the weather, the following industrial winter safety tips are helpful to ensure your safety and good health:
Wear Layered Clothing
Multiple layers of loose-fitting clothing allow the worker to adjust their comfort level and protection based on the current temperature. Tight fitting clothes reduce blood circulation. The danger of sunburn is still a concern even when it is cold outside. Wear a hat, scarf or face covering and always wear waterproof gloves. It is wise to keep a change of clothes with you in case your existing clothes get wet. Wetness can increase the ate of heat loss from the body.
Wear Good Shoes
Wear proper footwear when out in winter weather. A pair of water resistant and insulated boots with rubber treads is important for industrial winter safety. Slow your pace and shorten your steps when navigating snowy/icy walkways.
Breaks are Good 
When the weather is particularly cold and/or windy, regular breaks are necessary. If possible, take a break inside or under shelter where you can warm up a bit. If it gets very cold, get inside and get warm. Do not risk your health is weather that is not safe.
Stay Hydrated
You still sweat—even in cold temperatures. It’s easy to forget the simple importance of hydration when it is cold outside. It’s not like the steamy summer months when we know we are sweating. For optimal performance, keep your body hydrated.
Know the Signs
Be aware of those around you and take care of each other. Frostbite and hypothermia can set in unexpectedly. Get inside if you begin to experience either. If a co-worker seems to be manifesting signs, get help immediately.
Proper Heat Ventilation
If using a non-electric heater, ensure that there is proper ventilation to let gasses like carbon monoxide escape. Also, test batteries in all carbon monoxide detectors.
Prepare for Winter Driving
Top off your fluids, drive slowly and allow yourself additional time to travel. Pay attention to changing road conditions.
Clear the Path
Make sure that walkways, paths, stairs, and entries are free from snow and ice. Do this as quickly as possible when a winter storm sets in. Slips, trips, and falls decrease dramatically when the path is clear.
A great option for keeping pathways safe is to use Powerblanket mats, which offer a new method for clearing paths that does not use chemicals or salt, or require you to break your back shoveling. Summerstep™ industrial snow melting mats with radiant heat technology melt snow and ice on walkways, stairs and doorways. Not only does Summerstep™ melt away the existing ice and snow, but as the storm continues, the path will stay clear as accumulating snow will instantly melt away. Linked mats together to match the length you need and ensure safe travels.
Summerstep™ Industrial Walkway Heater Mat
Walkway with Summerstep™ Mat