www.osha.gov Open in urlscan Pro
2a02:26f0:dc:389::18b9  Public Scan

Form analysis
1 forms found in the DOM

GET https://search.osha.gov/search

<form id="site-search-form" class="form-search" method="get" action="https://search.osha.gov/search">
  <div class="input-append" id="Search">
    <button type="submit" title="Click to Search OSHA.gov" class="btn btn-link" style="padding:0% 0% 0% 0%;">
      <span class="add-on"><label for="query-field"><i class="fa fa-search" title="Search OSHA.gov" aria-hidden="true"></i></label></span>
    </button>
    <input name="affiliate" value="usdoloshapublicwebsite" type="hidden">
    <input id="query-field" class="input-xlarge search-query usagov-search-autocomplete searchfield" name="query" autocomplete="off" placeholder="SEARCH OSHA" title="Find it in OSHA" aria-labelledby="Search" type="text">
  </div>
</form>

Text Content

Skip to main content
DEPARTMENT OF LABOR LOGO
UNITED STATES
DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

 * Facebook
 * Twitter
 * Instagram
 * RSS
 * Subscribe
 * YouTube

MENU


OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION

Contact UsFAQA to Z Index
Select Language Afrikaans Albanian Amharic Arabic Armenian Azerbaijani Basque
Belarusian Bengali Bosnian Bulgarian Catalan Cebuano Chichewa Chinese
(Simplified) Chinese (Traditional) Corsican Croatian Czech Danish Dutch
Esperanto Estonian Filipino Finnish French Frisian Galician Georgian German
Greek Gujarati Haitian Creole Hausa Hawaiian Hebrew Hindi Hmong Hungarian
Icelandic Igbo Indonesian Irish Italian Japanese Javanese Kannada Kazakh Khmer
Korean Kurdish (Kurmanji) Kyrgyz Lao Latin Latvian Lithuanian Luxembourgish
Macedonian Malagasy Malay Malayalam Maltese Maori Marathi Mongolian Myanmar
(Burmese) Nepali Norwegian Pashto Persian Polish Portuguese Punjabi Romanian
Russian Samoan Scots Gaelic Serbian Sesotho Shona Sindhi Sinhala Slovak
Slovenian Somali Spanish Sundanese Swahili Swedish Tajik Tamil Telugu Thai
Turkish Ukrainian Urdu Uzbek Vietnamese Welsh Xhosa Yiddish Yoruba Zulu

Powered by Google Übersetzer
Languages
 * اَلْعَرَبِيَّةُ (Arabic)
 * Sinugbuanong Binisayâ (Cebuano)
 * 官话 (Chinese-Simplified)
 * 廣東話 (Chinese-Traditional)
 * English
 * Français (French)
 * Kreyòl ayisyen (Haitian Creole)
 * 한국어 (Korean)
 * नेपाली (Nepali)
 * Polski (Polish)
 * Português (Portuguese (Brazilian))
 * Русский (Russian)
 * Af-Soomaali (Somali)
 * Español (Spanish)
 * Українська (Ukrainian)
 * Tiếng Việt (Vietnamese)

 * OSHA
   * OSHA
   * About OSHA
   * Find an OSHA Office
   * State Plans
   * Job Safety and Health Poster
   * Careers
   * Freedom of Information Act
 * Standards
   * Standards
   * Law and Regulations
   * Federal Registers
   * Open for Comment
   * Regulatory Agenda
   * Standard Interpretations
   * Training Requirements by Standard
 * Enforcement
   * Enforcement
   * OSHA Enforcement
   * Annual Inspection Data
 * Topics
   * * Topics
     * Employer Help
     * Worker Rights
     * Heat
     * Trenching and Excavation
     * Personal Protective Equipment
     * Fall Prevention
     * Hazard Communication
     * Suicide Prevention
   * * By Sector
     * Agriculture
     * Construction
     * Federal Agencies
     * Healthcare
     * Maritime
     * Oil and Gas
     * Warehousing
   * * Key Topics
     * Recordkeeping Requirements and Forms
     * Safety and Health Programs
     * Whistleblower Protections
 * HELP AND RESOURCES
   * * Help and Resources
     * Data and Statistics
     * Establishment Search
     * Fatality Reports
     * File a Complaint
     * Publications
     * Safety and Health Topics Pages
     * Videos
   * * Compliance Assistance
     * Compliance Assistance Specialists
     * Consultation Services
     * Cooperative Programs
     * Small Business Resources
   * * Training
     * Training Requirements and Resources
     * Outreach Training Program (10- and 30-hour Cards)
     * Find a Trainer
     * Replace a Card
     * Avoid Card Fraud
     * OSHA Training Institute Education Centers
     * Find a Center
     * Search for Classes
     * Susan Harwood Training Grants
 * NEWS
   * News
   * Federal Registers
   * Newsroom
   * News Releases
   * QuickTakes Newsletter

 * Contact Us
 * FAQ
 * A to Z Index

Languages
 * اَلْعَرَبِيَّةُ (Arabic)
 * Sinugbuanong Binisayâ (Cebuano)
 * 官话 (Chinese-Simplified)
 * 廣東話 (Chinese-Traditional)
 * English
 * Français (French)
 * Kreyòl ayisyen (Haitian Creole)
 * 한국어 (Korean)
 * नेपाली (Nepali)
 * Polski (Polish)
 * Português (Portuguese (Brazilian))
 * Русский (Russian)
 * Af-Soomaali (Somali)
 * Español (Spanish)
 * Українська (Ukrainian)
 * Tiếng Việt (Vietnamese)

 1. Safety and Health Topics
 2. Winter Weather


WINTER WEATHER

Winter Weather Menu Workers' Rights
 * Introduction
 * Cold Stress
 * Preparedness
 * Hazards/Precautions
 * OSHA Resources
 * Additional Resources
 * Emergency Preparedness and Response
    * Hurricanes
    * Tornadoes
    * Earthquakes
    * Floods
    * Wildfires
    * Winter Weather

 * Workers' Rights

HAZARDS/PRECAUTIONS



In addition to cold stress, there are other winter weather related hazards that
workers may be exposed to when performing tasks such as driving in the snow,
removing snow from rooftops, and working near downed or damaged power lines.

 * Winter Driving
 * Work Zone Traffic Safety
 * Stranded in a Vehicle
 * Shoveling Snow
 * Using Powered Equipment like Snow Blowers
 * Clearing Snow from Roofs and Working at Heights
 * Preventing Slips on Snow and Ice
 * Repairing Downed or Damaged Power Lines
 * Working Near Downed or Damaged Power Lines
 * Removing Downed Trees

WINTER DRIVING

Although employers cannot control roadway conditions, they can promote safe
driving behavior by ensuring workers: recognize the hazards of winter weather
driving, for example, driving on snow/ice covered roads; are properly trained
for driving in winter weather conditions; and are licensed (as applicable) for
the vehicles they operate. For information about driving safely during the
winter, visit OSHA's Safe Winter Driving page.

Employers should set and enforce driver safety policies. Employers should also
implement an effective maintenance program for all vehicles and mechanized
equipment that workers are required to operate. Crashes can be avoided. Learn
more at: Motor Vehicle Safety (OSHA Safety and Health Topic’s Page).

Employers should ensure properly trained workers' inspect the following vehicle
systems to determine if they are working properly:

 * Brakes: Brakes should provide even and balanced braking. Also check that
   brake fluid is at the proper level.
 * Cooling System: Ensure a proper mixture of 50/50 antifreeze and water in the
   cooling system at the proper level.
 * Electrical System: Check the ignition system and make sure that the battery
   is fully charged and that the connections are clean. Check that the
   alternator belt is in good condition with proper tension.
 * Engine: Inspect all engine systems.
 * Exhaust System: Check exhaust for leaks and that all clamps and hangers are
   snug.
 * Tires: Check for proper tread depth and no signs of damage or uneven wear.
   Check for proper tire inflation.
 * Oil: Check that oil is at proper level.
 * Visibility Systems: Inspect all exterior lights, defrosters (windshield and
   rear window), and wipers. Install winter windshield wipers.

An emergency kit with the following items is recommended in vehicles:

 * Cellphone or two-way radio
 * Windshield ice scraper
 * Snow brush
 * Flashlight with extra batteries
 * Shovel
 * Tow chain
 * Traction aids (bag of sand or cat litter)
 * Emergency flares
 * Jumper cables
 * Snacks
 * Water
 * Road maps
 * Blankets, change of clothes

WORK ZONE TRAFFIC SAFETY

Workers being struck by vehicles or mobile equipment lead to many work zone
fatalities or injuries annually. Drivers may skid, or lose control of their
vehicles more easily when driving on snow and/or ice covered roads. It is
therefore, important to properly set up work zones with the traffic controls
identified by signs, cones, barrels, and barriers, to protect workers. Workers
exposed to vehicular traffic should wear the appropriate high visibility vest at
all times, so that they can be visible to motorists (OSHA Letter of
Interpretation, dated, August 5, 2009).

Learn more at: Work Zone Traffic Safety (OSHA QuickCard™) and Highway Work Zones
and Signs, Signals, and Barricades (OSHA Safety and Health Topics Page).

STRANDED IN A VEHICLE

If you are stranded in a vehicle, stay in the vehicle. Call for emergency
assistance if needed, response time may be slow in severe winter weather
conditions. Notify your supervisor of your situation. Do not leave the vehicle
to search for assistance unless help is visible within 100 yards. You may become
disoriented and get lost in blowing and drifting snow. Display a trouble sign by
hanging a brightly colored cloth on the vehicle’s radio antenna and raising the
hood. Turn on the vehicle's engine for about 10 minutes each hour and run the
heat to keep warm. Also, turn on the vehicle's dome light when the vehicle is
running as an additional signal. Beware of carbon monoxide poisoning. Keep the
exhaust pipe clear of snow, and open a downwind window slightly for ventilation.

Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia. Do minor exercises to maintain
good blood circulation in your body. Clap hands and move arms and legs
occasionally. Try not to stay in one position for too long. Stay awake, you will
be less vulnerable to cold-related health problems. Use blankets, newspapers,
maps, and even the removable car mats for added insulation. Avoid overexertion
since cold weather puts an added strain on the heart. Unaccustomed exercise such
as shoveling snow or pushing a vehicle can bring on a heart attack or make other
medical conditions worse.

SHOVELING SNOW

Shoveling snow can be a strenuous activity, particularly because cold weather
can be taxing on the body. There is a potential for exhaustion, dehydration,
back injuries, or heart attacks. During snow removal in addition to following
the tips for avoiding cold stress, such as taking frequent breaks in warm areas,
there are other precautions workers can take to avoid injuries. Workers should
warm-up before the activity, scoop small amounts of snow at a time and where
possible, push the snow instead of lifting it. The use of proper lifting
technique is necessary to avoid back and other injuries when shoveling snow:
keep the back straight, lift with the legs and do not turn or twist the body.

USING POWERED EQUIPMENT LIKE SNOW BLOWERS

It is important to make sure that powered equipment, such as snow blowers are
properly grounded to protect workers from electric shocks or electrocutions.
When performing maintenance or cleaning, make sure the equipment is properly
guarded and is disconnected from power sources.

Snow blowers commonly cause lacerations or amputations when operators attempt to
clear jams with the equipment turned on. Never attempt to clear a jam by hand.
First, turn the snow blower off and wait for all moving parts to stop, and then
use a long stick to clear wet snow or debris from the machine. Keep your hands
and feet away from moving parts. Refuel a snow blower prior to starting the
machine; do not add fuel when the equipment is running or when the engine is
hot.

CLEARING SNOW FROM ROOFS AND WORKING AT HEIGHTS

Employers must evaluate snow removal tasks for hazards and plan how to do the
work safely. Workers should be aware of the potential for unexpected hazards due
to the weather conditions, for example, layers of ice can form as the
environmental temperature drops, making surfaces even more slippery. A surface
that is weighed down by snow must be inspected by a competent person to
determine if it is structurally safe for workers to access it, because it may be
at risk of collapsing. Snow covered rooftops can hide hazards such as skylights
that workers can fall through. Electrical hazards may also exist from overhead
power lines or snow removal equipment.

Employers can protect workers from these hazardous work conditions, for example,
by using snow removal methods that do not involve workers going on roofs, when
and where possible. Employers should determine the right type of equipment
(ladders, aerial lifts, etc.) and personal protective equipment (personal fall
arrest systems, non-slip safety boots, etc.) for the job and ensure that workers
are trained on how to properly use them. For more information, see OSHA's Hazard
Alert: Falls and Other Hazards to Workers Removing Snow from Rooftops and Other
Elevated Surfaces.

PREVENTING SLIPS ON SNOW AND ICE

To prevent slips, trips, and falls, employers should clear walking surfaces of
snow and ice, and spread deicer, as quickly as possible after a winter storm. In
addition, the following precautions will help reduce the likelihood of injuries:

 * Wear proper footwear when walking on snow or ice is unavoidable, because it
   is especially treacherous. A pair of insulated and water resistant boots with
   good rubber treads is a must for walking during or after a winter storm.
   Keeping a pair of rubber over-shoes with good treads which fit over your
   street shoes is a good idea during the winter months.
 * Take short steps and walk at a slower pace so you can react quickly to a
   change in traction, when walking on an icy or snow-covered walkway.

REPAIRING DOWNED OR DAMAGED POWER LINES

Repairing and/or replacing damaged power lines in severe winter weather
conditions are especially hazardous. A major hazard is snow, because the
moisture can reduce the insulation value of protective equipment, and could
cause electrocution. In these conditions de-energized work is safer, but if
energized work must be done, qualified workers and supervisors must first do a
hazard analysis that includes evaluating the weather conditions and identifying
how to safely do the job.

Other potential hazards include:

 * Electrocution by contacting downed energized power lines, or contacting
   objects, such as broken tree limbs, in contact with downed energized power
   lines.
 * Fires caused by an energized line or equipment failure.
 * Being struck or crushed by falling tree limbs, collapsing poles, etc.

When working on downed or damaged power lines, electrical utility workers should
use safe work practices, appropriate tools and equipment (including personal
protective equipment (PPE)). Extra caution should be exercised when working in
adverse weather conditions. Learn more at: Contact with Power Lines (OSHA
Construction eTool).

WORKING NEAR DOWNED OR DAMAGED POWER LINES

Assume all power lines are energized and stay clear of any downed or damaged
power lines. Establish a safe distance from power lines and report any incidents
to the responsible authority. Only properly-trained electrical utility workers
can handle damaged power lines. Learn more at: Contact with Power Lines (OSHA
Construction eTool) and Working Safely Around Downed Electrical Wires (OSHA Fact
Sheet).

REMOVING DOWNED TREES

Clearing downed trees is a critical job during severe winter weather conditions.
It is usually urgent to remove downed trees that block public roads and damage
power lines. Emergency crews are often tasked with clearing downed trees.

Potential hazards include:

 * Electrocution by contacting downed energized power lines or contacting broken
   tree limbs in contact with downed energized power lines. Learn more at: Line
   Clearance Tree Trimming Operations (OSHA Electric Power eTool).
 * Falls from heights.
 * Being injured by equipment such as chain saws (Chain Saw Safety (OSHA
   QuickCard™)) and chippers (Chipper Machine Safety (OSHA QuickCard™)).

Workers should wear PPE that protect them from the hazards of the tree removal
tasks. Workers using chainsaws and chippers to clear downed trees should use:
gloves, chaps, foot protection, eye protection, fall protection, hearing
protection and head protection.

Only powered equipment designed for outdoor and wet conditions should be used.
Use all equipment and tools (saws, chippers, etc.) properly and for the purpose
that they are designed for. Ensure that equipment is always maintained in
serviceable condition and inspected before use by a knowledgeable person that
can identify any problems with the equipment. Do not use equipment that is not
functioning properly. Equipment must have proper guarding (as applicable); safe
guards must never be bypassed. All controls and safety features must function as
designed by the manufacturer. Learn more at: Tree Trimming and Removal (OSHA
QuickCard™).

OSHA is a Weather-Ready Nation Ambassador committed to working with NOAA and
other Ambassadors to strengthen national preparedness for and resilience against
extreme weather.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Department of Labor logo
UNITED STATES
DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

Occupational Safety & Health Administration

200 Constitution Ave NW

Washington, DC 20210

800-321-6742 (OSHA)

TTY

www.OSHA.gov

Federal Government

 * White House
 * Severe Storm and Flood Recovery Assistance
 * Disaster Recovery Assistance
 * DisasterAssistance.gov
 * USA.gov
 * No Fear Act Data
 * U.S. Office of Special Counsel

Occupational Safety & Health

 * Frequently Asked Questions
 * A - Z Index
 * Freedom of Information Act - OSHA
 * Read The OSHA Newsletter
 * Subscribe to the OSHA Newsletter
 * OSHA Publications
 * Office of Inspector General

About This Site

 * Freedom of Information Act - DOL
 * Privacy & Security Statement
 * Disclaimers
 * Important Web Site Notices
 * Plug-ins Used by DOL
 * Accessibility Statement


ORIGINALTEXT


Bessere Übersetzung vorschlagen

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------



Back to Top