Working in the Cold: Prevention Comes First!

Working in the Cold: Prevention Comes First!

In certain sectors such as agriculture, forestry, arboriculture, and construction, outdoor work is common, and the arrival of winter increases health and safety risks for workers. Even in indoor environments, such as cold-storage warehouses, slaughterhouses, or refrigerated facilities, exposure to cold can lead to serious problems if not properly managed.

Cold-related hazards are numerous. Frostbite can occur, often affecting fingers, hands, feet, toes, face, and ears. Hypothermia is another serious danger that can be life-threatening if not detected in time. In extreme cases, permanent injuries, known as chilblains, may develop.

To prevent these risks, employers must implement appropriate safety measures: providing clothing and protective equipment suited to the conditions, scheduling regular breaks in heated areas, and training staff to recognize the signs of frostbite and hypothermia. Workers, in turn, must follow these preventive measures and monitor their own condition as well as that of their colleagues.

Another risk not to be overlooked involves the use of combustion-powered equipment in cold environments. These devices can produce carbon monoxide, a colorless, deadly gas. Adequate ventilation and strict adherence to safety procedures are essential to prevent poisoning.

For more guidance, the document “Working in the Cold: Preventing and Treating Cold-Related Injuries” provides detailed advice on prevention and treatment. All of these measures fall under the framework of the Occupational Health and Safety Act, which requires employers and workers to ensure a safe working environment.

Preventing cold-related risks protects your health, the health of your colleagues, and ensures safe working conditions—even in winter.