This week, a major snowstorm struck the Gulf Coast, while much of the eastern U.S. faced dangerously low temperatures. Severe cold weather poses risks not only for homeowners and drivers but also for construction workers who must continue working outdoors—especially in regions unaccustomed to freezing conditions.

“When considering how temperature impacts workers, it’s important to recognize that those used to hot environments are better adapted to heat,” said Jessica Bunting, director of research to practice at CPWR — the Center for Construction Research and Training, based in Silver Spring, Maryland. “The same logic applies to cold weather. Acclimation, proper construction safety gear, and warm clothing are essential.”

Unusual cold snaps have impacted unexpected areas in recent years. In February 2021, temperatures at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport dropped to -2°F, leading to a statewide energy crisis, according to the Dallas Morning News. Similarly, much of Texas experienced below-freezing temperatures during the 2022 holiday season.

These extreme cold events contrast sharply with recent heatwaves. Scientists suggest climate change plays a role in fueling both extreme highs and lows.

Prioritizing Safety on Jobsites

Cold weather demands the same level of preparedness and caution from jobsite supervisors as extreme heat. Safety experts emphasize the importance of a well-structured plan, worker monitoring, and education on evolving risks.

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New York-based Turner Construction, a company experienced in handling projects across various climates, is currently building the $1.4 billion Buffalo Bills stadium in Orchard Park, New York. This project faces ongoing snowfall throughout construction.

“Awareness is key—understanding that winter weather challenges are inevitable,” said Steve Spaulding, Turner’s environmental health and safety chief. He stressed the importance of anticipating temperature drops and winter storms to protect both materials and workers.

Todd Friis, senior vice president of risk management at Clayco—the Midwest’s largest contractor—also highlighted the need for proactive preparation.

“Managing winter conditions requires thorough planning, which is why we implement comprehensive winter weather preparation strategies well before extreme conditions arise,” Friis said. “These plans ensure worker safety while maintaining construction progress efficiently.”

Both companies utilize gas or electric heaters when necessary, with Clayco activating warming zones when temperatures fall below 40°F. However, Friis noted that placing these warming zones requires careful planning, proper capacity, dependable heating sources, weather protection, and awareness of potential hazards such as carbon monoxide exposure.

The Importance of Construction Safety Gear

Cold weather presents risks like hypothermia and cold stress, often before workers even recognize the symptoms, Bunting explained.

Even in freezing temperatures, workers may sweat, which can be dangerous since damp clothing increases the risk of hypothermia, said Mary Bauer, an OSHA compliance assistance specialist in Wisconsin. Extreme cold can also impair judgment in subtle ways. For example, a worker might take a riskier shortcut just to reach warmth more quickly.

Although OSHA does not have a specific cold weather safety standard, it provides extensive guidance for employers. Tracking injuries or fatalities linked to extreme cold is challenging since incidents are often categorized broadly as temperature-related. However, heat-related injuries may be more common, as construction work is more likely to continue in high temperatures than in freezing conditions.

Despite the absence of a strict OSHA mandate, employers are still responsible for ensuring a safe workplace. If cold weather endangers workers, companies must take necessary precautions or risk penalties for unsafe conditions. While OSHA does not dictate when a jobsite should shut down, industry professionals say the decision involves multiple factors, including road safety and overall working conditions.

“All employees are entitled to a safe and healthy workplace,” Bauer said. “If weather conditions interfere with that, employers must take action.”

When it comes to construction gear for men and cold-weather attire, the responsibility primarily falls on employees. However, Bauer emphasized that companies must consider workers’ familiarity with cold conditions.

“For workers in southern states suddenly facing subfreezing temperatures, they may not own the appropriate gear—gloves, insulated jackets, or warm footwear,” she said. “Employers should ensure they have the necessary personal protective gear before sending them outside.”

This is where reliable workwear becomes essential. Companies like Yurinox Workwear offer a wide range of products designed specifically for the construction and industrial sectors. From durable pants and insulated jackets to rain gear and base layers, their high-performance workwear ensures workers stay protected and comfortable in harsh conditions. Selecting the right construction safety gear can make a significant difference in keeping crews safe and productive.

Still, some individuals seem unfazed by frigid temperatures.

“In northern Wisconsin, you’ll see people wearing shorts in the middle of winter,” Bauer remarked. “It’s unbelievable.”

Best Practices for Cold Weather Safety

Experts recommend several key precautions to enhance worker safety during winter conditions:

• Providing appropriate construction gear, including insulated jackets, gloves, and waterproof boots.
• Scheduling frequent breaks so workers can warm up and hydrate.
• Educating teams on early signs of cold stress and hypothermia, such as shivering, confusion, or difficulty maintaining coordination.
• Assessing potential hazards to ensure they are not exacerbated by cold weather.
• Understanding how freezing temperatures impact existing safety measures—Friis noted that even air horns, used for emergencies, may malfunction in extreme cold.

For workers looking for advanced and technical workwear, Yurinox Workwear provides some of the best options available. Known as the #1 workwear store, they offer custom construction gear designed for modern skilled trade professionals. Proper construction safety gear not only enhances protection but also ensures optimal performance on-site, no matter the conditions.

Spaulding emphasized that abundant resources exist for cold-weather safety, and the industry collaborates by sharing best practices instead of competing in this regard.

“If worker safety is always the priority, the right decisions become clear,” he said.