Working at heights in winter introduces several hazards that require careful risk assessment and control measures. Here's a breakdown of potential hazards and mitigation strategies:

Hazards:

• Slips, Trips, and Falls: Ice and snow accumulation on walkways, platforms, and ladders significantly increase the risk of slipping and falling [1]. "Every exterior stairway, walkway, ramp and passageway that may be used by employees shall be kept free of accumulations of ice and snow or other slipping or tripping hazards" [1].
• Unstable Ground Conditions: Frozen ground can become soft and unstable with temperature fluctuations, affecting the stability of equipment and structures [2].
• Cold Stress: Prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can lead to hypothermia and frostbite, impairing judgment and physical abilities [1].
• Reduced Visibility: Snowfall, fog, and shorter daylight hours can reduce visibility, increasing the risk of accidents [1].
• Equipment Malfunction: Cold temperatures can affect the performance of equipment, such as fall protection gear, hydraulic systems, and machinery 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15.

Risk Assessment:

1. Identify Hazards: Conduct a thorough inspection of the work area to identify potential slip, trip, and fall hazards, as well as cold-related risks.
2. Assess Risks: Evaluate the likelihood and severity of each hazard. Consider factors such as the height of the work, the presence of ice or snow, and the temperature.
3. Develop a Fall-Protection Plan: If there is a risk of injury due to falling, the employer must develop a fall-protection plan in consultation with the work place committee or the health and safety representative [3]. The plan must specify the hazards, the fall-protection systems, anchorage points, clearance distances, and rescue procedures [3].

Control Measures:

• Elimination/Substitution:
  • If possible, reschedule work at heights for warmer months or relocate tasks to ground level.
• Engineering Controls:
  • Install Guardrails and Toe Boards: Use guardrails designed to withstand a static load of 890 N [1]. Install toe boards to prevent tools and objects from falling onto people below [1].
  • Ensure Safe Access: Install fixed ladders, stairways, or ramps where there is a level difference of more than 450 mm [4].
  • Use Fall Hazard Zone Monitor: If a person needs to carry out an activity in a fall hazard zone or cross a fall hazard zone to get to or from a work area, the employer must ensure the presence of a fall hazard zone monitor [5].
• Administrative Controls:
  • Implement a Winter Safety Program: Develop and enforce procedures for working in winter conditions, including ice and snow removal, cold stress management, and emergency response [1].
  • Provide Training: Train workers on the hazards of working at heights in winter, proper use of fall protection equipment, and safe work practices [5].
  • Buddy System: Implement a buddy system to ensure workers are monitored for signs of cold stress or fatigue.
  • Regular Breaks: Schedule frequent breaks in a warm area to prevent cold stress.
  • Housekeeping: Keep walkways and work surfaces clear of ice and snow [1]. Apply salt, sand, or other de-icing agents to prevent slips and falls [1].
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
  • Wear appropriate PPE: If there is a risk of head injury in a work place, the employer must ensure that protective headwear is worn [6]. If there is a risk of injury due to slipping in a work place, the employer must ensure that slip-resistant footwear is worn [6].
  • Use proper footwear: Provide workers with insulated, slip-resistant footwear [6].
  • Dress in layers: Encourage workers to wear multiple layers of clothing to maintain body temperature.

Monitoring and Review:

• Regular Inspections: Conduct regular inspections of the work area and equipment to identify and address hazards.
• Incident Reporting: Encourage workers to report any incidents or near misses.
• Review and Update: Review the risk assessment and control measures regularly, especially after any incidents or changes in work conditions. The job safety analysis, instruction and training must be reviewed every two years [5].

By implementing these control measures, employers can significantly reduce the risks associated with working at heights in winter and ensure the safety of their workers.