Safety checklist — Cold weather work

Multi-layer clothing: technical base layer, insulating layer, windproof/waterproof shell

Extremities protected: toque under hard hat, neck gaiter, insulated gloves, boot covers

Wind chill index checked — adjust breaks accordingly

ℹ️ The wind-chill chart is a CNESST guide, not a CSTC article. E.g. −27°C: warm-up break every 55 min per that guide.

Heated shelter accessible nearby for breaks

ℹ️ LSST 51 + CNESST cold guide. Not a CSTC “mandatory breaks” article.

Hot beverages available — avoid coffee (dehydration)

Buddy monitoring system — recognize hypothermia signs

Alternate between physical and light tasks to maintain warmth

Breaks and shelter per the risk assessment / CNESST cold guideCritical

ℹ️ LSST 51: eliminate the hazard. The wind-chill chart is a CNESST guide, not a CSTC article.

Watch for frostbite signs: white skin, numbness, tingling

Watch for hypothermia signs: shivering, confusion, drowsinessCritical

ℹ️ Severe hypothermia = medical emergency — call 911 immediately

Change wet clothing immediately

Icy surfaces treated — salt, sand or anti-slip mats

Clothing dried for next day — don't leave in vehicle

Report any persistent frostbite or numbness signs

Equipment protected from freezing (batteries, hydraulic fluids)