Winter Hazards

Carbon Monoxide
  •  Carbon monoxide (CO) is a clear, colourless gas that has no odor or taste. Workers need a gas detector to warn of the hazard.
  •  CO interferes with the body’s ability to use oxygen and can potentially kill an individual. The first signs of CO poisoning are headache and fatigue.
  •  The major source in construction is engine exhaust. Gasoline, propane and diesel engines all release CO. Heater exhaust contains CO and some types of welding may also produce it.
  •  When CO is produced in an area without adequate ventilation, a worker’s life is in danger.
  •  Operate engines outdoors when possible. For example, welding machines and generators can be left outside – the leads can run into the building.
  •  When engines must be operated indoors,
  -  Choose electric rather than fuel-powered equipment.
  -  Make sure the area is well-ventilated. Keep doors and windows open. Use fans to bring in fresh air. Vent exhaust outside.
  -  Limit running time and don’t let engines idle.
  -  Monitor CO levels regularly with a gas detector.
  -  If your controls are inadequate, use respiratory protection (supplied-air respirator).
  •  When operating heavy equipment outside, open windows occasionally for fresh air.
  •  Check propane vehicle-cab heaters for leaks and proper venting.

Ice And Snow
  •  Clean ice and snow from access areas and work platforms. Make sure that stairs, ladders and scaffold planks are clear.
  •  Use sand, salt or other de-icing material to prevent slips and falls. Simply turning icy planks over may not be enough. Ice often forms on the underside of planks and other platform materials.
  •  Watch your footing. Steel beams, decks and platforms may be clear in sunny areas but icy in the shade. The same goes for plywood decks.
  •  Remove icicles, especially when the temperature starts to warm up. If icicles can’t be removed, rope off the area below them and put up warning signs.
  •  Clear frost and snow completely from all windows, mirrors and lights on vehicles and heavy equipment.
  •  When possible, keep your arms free to cushion a fall.
  •  When setting up signs and barriers for traffic control, allow extra distance so that motorists can spot warning signs and slow down or stop in time. Visibility and braking distance can be greatly reduced in winter.

Cold Stress
Cold Stress includes frostbite (your flesh freezes) and hypothermia (your core body temperature drops). Here are some ways to prevent cold stress:
  -  Wear several layers of clothing instead of one thick layer.
  -  Wear gloves, as well as head coverings that accommodate a hard hat.
  -  Wear thick socks, or at least two thin pairs of socks.
  -  If you get hot while working, open your jacket but keep your hat and gloves on.

  - material courtesy of the Construction Safety Association of Ontario (CSAO)

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