7 Winter Hazards Forestry Workers Need to Watch For
- ac0913
- Jan 2
- 2 min read
Winter brings unique challenges to Canada’s forest sector. Shorter days, winter hazards, and year-end production pressure can increase the risk of workplace incidents, especially in remote forestry operations. For forestry employers, prioritizing workplace safety during the winter months is critical to protecting workers and maintaining safe operations.
According to the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS), slips, trips, and falls remain one of the leading causes of workplace injuries in Canada, with winter conditions significantly increasing the risk. In the forest sector, these hazards are compounded by isolation, heavy equipment, unpredictable terrain, and limited access to emergency services.
As the holidays approach, staying alert and prepared is essential. Ongoing workplace safety training and safety training in NB help ensure forestry workers understand seasonal risks and know how to respond. Below are seven winter hazards forestry workers should watch for in December, along with practical solutions.
1. Icy Terrain and Slippery Surfaces
Snow-covered ground, ice, and frozen mud make forest roads, cut blocks, and equipment access points extremely hazardous.
Solution:
Use ice cleats or slip-resistant footwear
Clear walking paths where possible
Slow down and maintain three points of contact when climbing on equipment
2. Cold Stress and Hypothermia
Extended exposure to cold temperatures can lead to numbness, poor judgment, hypothermia, or frostbite, raising the risk of serious workplace incidents.
Solution:
Wear layered, insulated, and moisture-wicking clothing
Schedule regular warm-up breaks
Provide safety training so workers can recognize early signs of cold stress
3. Reduced Visibility and Shorter Daylight Hours
December brings limited daylight, fog, and snowstorms that reduce visibility for machine operators and drivers.
Solution:
Ensure high-visibility PPE is worn at all times
Keep equipment lighting clean and functional
Adjust work schedules to maximize daylight hours
4. Equipment Failure in Extreme Cold
Cold temperatures can cause hydraulic systems, batteries, and mechanical components to fail unexpectedly.
Solution:
Perform daily pre-use inspections
Use cold-rated fluids and lubricants
Allow equipment adequate warm-up time before operation
5. Fatigue and Holiday Pressure
Long shifts, year-end deadlines, and holiday stress can lead to fatigue, reduced focus, and increased safety risks.
Solution:
Encourage realistic scheduling and workload planning
Rotate tasks when possible
Reinforce rest breaks and hydration, even in cold weather
6. Vehicle and Logging Road Hazards
Snow-covered or icy logging roads significantly increase the risk of rollovers and vehicle collisions.
Solution:
Reduce driving speeds
Maintain winter tires and chains
Use radios to communicate road conditions and worker locations
7. Emergency Response Delays in Remote Locations
Winter storms can delay emergency response times, particularly in isolated forestry operations common in New Brunswick.
Solution:
Review emergency response plans before winter begins
Ensure radios, GPS units, and lone-worker systems are fully functional. Provide first aid and emergency response safety training in NB for crews
Winter forestry work will always involve risk but many incidents are preventable with the right preparation, awareness, and workplace safety training. December is an ideal time to pause, refocus on safety, and ensure forestry crews are ready for winter conditions.
By addressing these seasonal hazards proactively and investing in safety training in NB, forestry employers can protect their workers, reduce incidents, and help ensure everyone returns home safely for the holidays.
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