A Winter system You will apply across the United States This weekend, the weather will change in large areas of the region. In this context, there is a need to reconsider the extent Work standards and establishing current security regulations Employers’ responsibilities And guarantees for those who must do so Develop your outdoor activities.
Expectations are contemplating Snowfall of varying intensity, wind gusts that will affect visibility, and a general decrease in thermal values. Official forecasts predict a complex scenario between the Midwest, the Great Lakes region, the Northeast, and part of the southern United States.
The National Weather Service (NWS) noted this A mass of cold air will help snow form Caused by lake effect around Lakes Superior, Erie, and Ontario. Rainfall can reach accumulation rates of several inches per hour and generate continuous areas of flakes.
In the northeastern regions It is possible to record flashes that impair vision over short periodswhich will not only affect vehicular traffic, but will also affect work activity in areas where there is no shelter. Federal and state agencies maintain guidelines on climate risks, Although its scope varies between jurisdictions.
Although there is no federal standard for exposure to cold, the risks associated with low temperatures and… Employers must take preventive measures.
The US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) law requires this Each employer provides an environment free of recognized risks. Although the regulations do not include an exclusive standard for cold working, they do provide for it Heat stress is a risk that must be prevented.
This way employers They must communicate risks, train staff and take measures Which reduces exposure to harsh winter conditions.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Cold stress It includes the possibility of suffering Hypothermia, frostbite, trench foot and chilblains (dermatitis).
These conditions arise when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, which becomes more severe Windy, wet or sub-freezing environments.
Only some countries have it Specific regulations incorporate heat and cold into occupational hazards. This includes provisions for temperatures of at least 60°F (15.5°C) indoors, as in Minnesota, where values are specified below which no extended work should be conducted if there are no operational reasons to justify it.
At the state level, legislative progress is uneven. Many jurisdictions regulate indoor exposure onlyWhile others are trying to develop broader thermal protection systems for outdoor activities and in closed areas.
Occupational safety regulations seek to protect employees from threats caused by extreme temperatures. Although many regulations focus on preventing heat illnesswith countries such as Oregon and California Which is established Strict requirements Regarding access to shade, adequate hydration and adaptation protocols, There are also guidelines for extremely cold conditions.
OSHA guidelines recommend Create warm areas for frequent breaks and adjust work schedules To reduce more intense tasks during cold periods. They also suggest Avoid continuous exposure on days with dangerous temperatures Adopting systems that allow monitoring early signs of heat stress among workers.
Use the so-called “Friend System” It is recommended practice to identify symptoms early. In the same way, It is considered necessary to implement acclimatization periodsEspecially for those who have returned after a long absence
Hydration is another key ingredient. Remember some countries Provide water or hot drinks during the work day. The New York Department of Labor advises avoiding products containing caffeine and prioritizing warm fluids that facilitate recovery of body heat.
Includes cold stress prevention Wear multiple layers of clothing. OSHA’s recommendations consist of:
the Protecting hands, feet, ears and face is essentialIn subzero temperatures, it is suggested to use gloves when the task allows.
Employers, in accordance with federal regulations, They are not required to provide common winter clothing except in specific circumstances. However, they are expected to report on the correct use of available equipment and establish protocols for low temperature emergencies.
OSHA and National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) protections. Allow workers to refuse tasks when there is serious danger.
The NLRA covers coordinated actions when multiple employees create a dangerous situation, Provided that conditions are met, such as good faith and the absence of secret strikes.
Some state proposals seek to move toward stricter regulations. In Illinois, two legislative initiatives seek to establish standards for working in extreme heat and cold, including… Warm-up stations, paid rest periods, and exposure limits.
During 2025, several states presented similar projects, albeit with different results depending on the local legislative process.
in rhode island, Project SB 586 It seeks to establish mandatory measures such as Rest periods, protective equipment and regular training for supervisors. Although the Senate approved the initiative, the project remained without final progress.