You see them before sunrise, bundled in reflective gear, salting sidewalks, repairing power lines, or hauling trash through a snowstorm. Ohio doesn’t shut down when the weather turns bad—because essential workers keep it running. These are the dedicated people who brave snow, ice, bitter wind, and other cold-weather hazards to make sure streets stay plowed, pipes don’t freeze, and construction stays on schedule.
But working in harsh winter weather isn’t just uncomfortable—it can be dangerous. At Monast Law Office, we help Ohio workers who’ve been injured by cold stress or icy falls get the compensation they deserve. If you're hurting after working in the cold, you’re not alone—and you may have options.
Key Takeaways:
- Cold stress can cause lasting damage. Outdoor workers face serious risks like frostbite, hypothermia, and trench foot.
- Icy surfaces often cause injuries. Slips, trips, and falls are frequent–and frequently covered by insurance.
- Winter injuries might be eligible for workers’ comp. If you get hurt on the job, Ohio law probably covers it.
How Does Cold Stress Affect Ohio Workers?
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), cold stress happens when wind increases, making the air feel even colder, and when wetness, improper gear, and exhaustion are present. Workers in industries like construction, delivery, sanitation, and public works face a higher risk of three main cold-related injuries from November through March.
Hypothermia
This is the most dangerous form of cold stress. It occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, causing the internal temperature drop below 95°F. This condition develops gradually, and employees working outdoors may not realize how serious it is until it’s too late. Warning signs include:
- Shivering and fatigue
- Confusion or memory loss
- Slurred speech
- Loss of coordination
- Unconsciousness in severe cases
It requires immediate medical attention. If left untreated, hypothermia causes organ failure and death.
Frostbite
This cold-weather injury happens when body parts—most often fingers, toes, ears, and nose—freeze from prolonged exposure. It can lead to permanent tissue damage or even amputation. Common symptoms of frostbite are:
- Numbness or tingling
- Pale, waxy, or hard skin
- Skin that feels unusually firm or “wooden”
- Blisters in severe cases
Frostbite can happen even when air temperatures are above freezing if wind chill or moisture is involved. Wet gloves or boots dramatically increase the risk.
Trench Foot
Also called immersion foot, it doesn’t need freezing temperatures—it happens when the feet are exposed to cold, wet conditions for long periods, such as standing in slush or wearing damp socks all day. Signs of trench foot include:
- Redness or swelling of the feet
- Numbness or tingling
- Blisters or open sores
- Skin that turns gray or blue
This condition damages blood vessels and skin, sometimes permanently, and increases susceptibility to infections.
Slips and Falls on Snow and Ice Are Among the Top Winter Hazards
Winter creates a minefield of fall risks. Ice hides under snow, on metal surfaces, or even indoors near entryways. Common winter slip and fall scenarios include:
- Unshoveled walkways. Especially at job sites or customer homes.
- Slick loading docks or truck beds. Ice buildup often goes unnoticed.
- Wet floors inside buildings. Melting snow from boots creates hazards indoors.
- Falls from equipment. Climbing in or out of trucks or machinery increases risk.
Injuries from these falls range from sprains and fractures to concussions and spinal damage. Slip and fall claims are common during Ohio’s winter months—and should be covered if they occurred within the “zone of employment”.
What Should You Do If You’re Hurt on the Job in Cold Weather?
Time is critical when you’ve been injured outdoors. Even if symptoms seem mild, waiting could make things worse—and weaken your claim. Here’s what to do right away:
- Get medical attention. Go to urgent care or the ER if necessary—don’t wait.
- Report the injury. Notify your supervisor as soon as possible.
- Document the scene. Take photos of icy surfaces or weather conditions if you can.
- File a workers’ comp claim. There’s a strict statute of limitations on how long you have to file, so don’t delay.
Can You Get Workers’ Compensation for Winter Weather Injuries?
Yes—if your injury happened while performing work duties, it’s likely covered. In Ohio, workers’ comp applies to injuries that “arise out of and in the course of employment.” This includes, but isn’t limited to:
- Slipping on ice while delivering packages.
- Developing frostbite while working outside.
- Being hospitalized for hypothermia after exposure during a shift.
- Falling off a snowplow, ladder, or roof while on the job.
It doesn’t matter if the weather played a role—what matters is that you were working when it happened.
OSHA also has particular requirements for employers to ensure winter workplace safety. A key part of the OSH Act of 1970 states that “each employer shall furnish to each of his employees employment and a place of employment which are free from recognized hazards that are causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm to his employees”.
So, while you don’t have to prove your employer was at fault to qualify for Ohio workers’ comp benefits, our team at Monast Law Office may be able to point to a violation in OSHA stipulations if you’re up against employer retaliation or you have to appeal your claim decision because there’s a dispute between your company and the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation regarding your rightful benefits.
Your job supports others. Let us support you. No matter where you’re employed in Ohio, award-winning Jim Monast will put his decades of experience to work for you.
