WorkSafeBC is asking employers across the province to protect workers from weather-related hazards as the region continues to experience inclement winter weather.
Employers should conduct risk assessments on a regular basis in order to prevent injuries as workplace conditions change due to weather and other factors, according to a media release by WorkSafeBC.
“Anticipating the risks is key — as working in cold-weather conditions can lead to serious injuries if you’re not prepared,” said Barry Nakahara, senior manager of prevention field services at WorkSafeBC.
“For outdoor workers, cold stress injuries are an issue. Workers who drive as part of their job could be faced with hazardous road conditions, and workers from a range of industries could be impacted by slippery or wet sidewalks, walkways, and thoroughfares.”
Key risks during winter include:
- Cold stress: Almost 100 claims were accepted by WorkSafeBC between 2017 and 2021, for injuries related to cold stress. 80 per cent of such injuries occurred during the winter months from November to March.
- Slips, trips and falls: WorkSafeBC sees an approximate 11 per cent increase in injuries caused by slips, trips and falls during the winter months, with many resulting in serious injuries, including fractures, sprains and dislocations.
- Motor vehicle incidents: Varying winter weather and driving conditions across B.C., ranging from blizzard conditions and icy roads to heavy rain and wet roads, means workers are 18 per cent more likely to be injured in a motor vehicle incident during the winter.
In addition to conducting risk assessments, "effective health and safety programs" during winter should also involve everyone, "including front-line workers, members of the joint health and safety committee, managers, and supervisors," reads the release.
Resources from WorkSafeBC are available for cold stress, winter driving, shifting into winter and slips, trips and falls.
