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As winter weather approaches, NYECA Contractors must prepare for increased hazards related to winter conditions. In addition to protecting workers, contractors are required to comply with DOB, OSHA, and site-specific safety regulations. Proactive winter planning is essential to maintaining safe, compliant, and productive job sites.
Common Winter Hazards on NYC Electrical Work Sites
- Slips, Trips, and Falls: Snow and ice accumulation on scaffolding, ladders, elevated platforms, and access routes significantly increase fall risks, particularly on high-rise and multi-employer sites.
- Cold Stress & Reduced Dexterity: Prolonged exposure to cold and wind can impair judgment, grip strength, and reaction time, increasing electrical and tool-related hazards.
- Electrical & Temporary Power Risks: Moisture from snow, ice, or freezing rain can compromise temporary power installations, extension cords, and lighting systems.
- Reduced Visibility: Shorter daylight hours and winter storms require enhanced lighting and supervision.
- Material Degradation: Cold temperatures can cause conduit, insulation, and plastic components to become brittle and fail.
Contractor Responsibilities & DOB Compliance
Housekeeping & Snow Removal
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NYC DOB Construction Codes and Site Safety Plans require contractors to maintain safe access and egress at all times.
- Snow and ice must be promptly removed from:
-Walkways and work areas
-Ladders and stairways
-Scaffolds, platforms, and elevated surfaces
- Ice-melting materials should be applied as needed to reduce slip hazards.
Temporary Lighting (DOB & OSHA)
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Contractors must provide adequate temporary lighting in accordance with:
-NYC DOB requirements
-OSHA 29 CFR 1926.56
- Lighting must be maintained in:
-Stairwells and corridors
-Work areas
-Access points and exits
Temporary Power & Electrical Safety
- Temporary electrical installations must be protected from moisture and freezing conditions.
- Daily inspections of:
-Extension cords
-Temporary panels
-GFCI protection
-Lighting strings
- Damaged or weather-compromised equipment must be removed from service immediately.
Site Safety Coordination
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Winter hazards must be addressed in the Site Safety Plan and coordinated with:
-All GCs, CMs, and Subcontractors
-Site Safety Managers
- Changes in conditions require updates to JHAs.
Worker Protection & Best Practices
- Cold-Weather PPE: Provide insulated, slip-resistant footwear and gloves suitable for electrical work that maintain dexterity and electrical protection.
- Warm-Up Breaks: Ensure access to warm, dry break areas and encourage regular breaks to prevent cold stress and hypothermia.
- Tool & Equipment Inspections: Cold-weather inspections should be conducted daily, with increased attention after storms or freezing conditions.
- Training & Awareness: Conduct winter-focused toolbox talks addressing slips, falls, cold stress, and electrical hazards.
Planning, Supervision & Emergency Preparedness
- Monitor Weather Forecasts: Adjust work schedules and staffing as needed.
- Update JHAs: Include winter-specific hazards and controls.
- Emergency Access: Ensure emergency routes remain clear of snow and ice at all times.
Resources
OSHA-Winter Weather Preparedness
There are several toolbox talks on this topic in the Safety Meeting app and eSafetyline website that are included in your NYECA membership. You can find all the monthly topics and new weekly safety tips on the new Safety Corner section of the NYECA website
We encourage anyone interested in participating in the NYECA Safety Committee to reach out to evangelista@nyeca.org.
If you have any questions, you may reach out to the Association Office.
Thank You
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