FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 31, 2023
Contact: Dustin Degree
Office of the Commissioner
State of Vermont
Department of Labor
802-461-8807
VERMONT DEPARTMENT OF LABOR SHARES TIPS
TO STAY SAFE WHEN WORKING IN EXTREME COLD
Montpelier, Vt. – The Vermont Department of Labor is reminding employers and those working outside, to make sure they’re prepared for fridged temperatures headed towards the region.
“It’s important for all of us to recognize the warning signs of things like frostbite and make sure we’re doing all we can to stay safe while on the job this winter,” Labor Commissioner Michael Harrington said. “We know there’s important work that needs to be done, regardless of the weather, and we need to make sure we’re doing it safely.”
Winter weather can expose outdoor workers to frostbite, hypothermia, and cold stress, all of which can be fatal. It is important to monitor the wind chill temperature to better prepare and perform the work safely.
Tips to stay safe in cold weather:
- Know the symptoms of cold stress: reddening skin, tingling, pain, swelling, leg cramps, numbness, and blisters.
- Dress properly; wear at least three layers of loose-fitting clothing, insulated gloves and boots, and cover your head.
- Monitor your physical condition and that of your coworkers.
- Stay dry and pack extra clothes; moisture can increase heat loss from the body.
- Take frequent breaks in warm, dry areas.
- Drink warm liquids.
For more safety tips, visit USDOL’s Winter Weather page at https://www.osha.gov/winter-weather or Labor.Vermont.gov.
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