FACTS
- Extreme Heat Exposure: High temperatures increase the risk of heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and dehydration, especially for outdoor and non-climate-controlled workers.
- Severe Cold Conditions: Cold weather can cause frostbite, hypothermia, and reduced dexterity, increasing the likelihood of mistakes and injuries.
- Storm and High Wind Hazards: Strong winds and storms can lead to falling objects, structural instability, and loss of control of equipment.
- Flooding and Water Hazards: Heavy rainfall and flooding can create unstable ground, hidden hazards, and electrical risks in affected work areas.
- Reduced Visibility Conditions: Fog, heavy rain, snow, and smoke can limit visibility, increasing the risk of vehicle incidents and struck-by hazards.
- Unpredictable Weather Changes: Rapid shifts in weather conditions can catch workers unprepared, leading to exposure and unsafe decision-making.
- Infrastructure and Power Failures: Severe weather can disrupt power, communication, and safety systems, increasing risk during ongoing operations.
STATS
- In the United States, heat exposure caused 436 workplace fatalities between 2011 and 2022, with recent years showing an increasing trend due to extreme temperatures (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).
- U.S. data shows that thousands of workers suffer heat-related illnesses each year, particularly in construction, agriculture, and outdoor industries (OSHA and CDC, 2021–2023).
- In Canada, exposure to environmental conditions is a recognized cause of workplace injury, including heat and cold stress incidents reported in recent years (Association of Workers’ Compensation Boards of Canada).
- U.S. occupational data indicates that transportation incidents during severe weather remain a leading cause of workplace fatalities, especially in rain, snow, and storm conditions (BLS CFOI, 2021–2023).
- In Canada, winter conditions contribute significantly to workplace injuries, including slips, falls, and vehicle incidents during icy or snowy conditions (AWCBC, 2021–2023).
- U.S. reports show that fatalities due to lightning strikes, storms, and environmental exposure continue to occur in outdoor occupations, particularly in construction and utility work (NOAA and BLS, recent years).