As the winter comes on strong, workers all over Wisconsin may be asked to work in cold weather. This can last for months on end. While work clearly has to continue, even during the winter, it’s important to consider the risks that workers face and how they may be injured.
Severe cold injuries
One thing to consider is cold stress, while is just the stress put on your body by the low temperatures. At best, it’s uncomfortable. At worst, it can lead to issues like hypothermia or even frostbite. This is especially a problem when workers feel like they cannot leave a job site even as they grow uncomfortable, so they push their body to extremes they would never experience on their own time.
Slip-and-fall injuries
Another issue is the potential for a slip-and-fall injury on wet, snowy or icy ground. For example, a worker who delivers packages may be extra busy around the holidays. Every single time they leave the truck and walk over to someone’s house, they face risks. They could slip on the road, the sidewalk or the stairs. The risk is increased by the fact that they have to carry bulky or unwieldy packages, so they may not be able to see very well or they may not be able to catch themselves when they fall.
After an injury
You know you’re going to face risks this winter as you work. Make sure you also know what to do after an injury and what rights you have.
