Cold-Weather Ladder Safety: Key Winter Risks

When temperatures fall, ladder safety risks rise fast. Ice, snow, wind, and brittle materials can turn even simple climbs into dangerous tasks. For oil-field, industrial, and construction workers, understanding how cold weather changes ladder conditions is essential for preventing slips, falls, and equipment failures.

Below, we break down exactly what shifts in cold weather—and how your team can stay safe this winter.

Why Cold Weather Increases Ladder Hazards

Cold temperatures bring physical changes to both equipment and the working environment. This creates hazards workers don’t encounter in warmer seasons.

1. Surfaces Become Slippery

• Ice and frost form quickly on ladder rungs

• Snow buildup hides defects or slippery spots

• Rain can freeze instantly, making ladders nearly unusable

Risk: Sudden slips leading to falls from height.

2. Ladder Materials Change in Low Temperatures

Metal and fiberglass both react in the cold:

• Metal ladders lose friction and become icy faster

• Fiberglass ladders can become brittle and crack

• Plastic components may fail under pressure

Risk: Structural failure or breakage while in use.

3. Reduced Worker Dexterity

Cold weather affects workers physically:

• Gloves reduce grip strength

• Hands stiffen in extreme cold

• Bulky jackets limit mobility

• Vision may be impaired by fogged glasses

Risk: Missteps, poor grip, or unsafe climbing posture.

4. Increased Wind Exposure

Winter winds are unpredictable:

• Strong gusts can destabilize ladders

• Tall extension ladders are especially vulnerable

• Workers lose balance more easily

Risk: Ladder displacement or worker fall.

5. Reduced Visibility

Winter job sites often have:

• Shorter daylight hours

• Glare from snow

• Fog, sleet, or heavy cloud cover

Risk: Poor footing, missed rungs, and difficulty spotting hazards.

Cold-Weather Ladder Safety Best Practices

1. Inspect Ladders Before Every Use

Look for:

• Cracks or splits in fiberglass

• Ice or frost on rungs

• Loose feet or damaged shoes

• Bent rails

• Corrosion on metal ladders

Never use a ladder with ice that cannot be fully removed.

2. Use Ladders Designed for Winter Conditions

Consider:

• Slip-resistant rungs

• Fiberglass for non-conductivity

• Ladders with adjustable stabilizers

• Insulated gloves with strong grip

3. Clear and Prepare the Work Area

• Remove snow and ice where the ladder will be placed

• Lay down salt or sand for traction

• Ensure stable, level ground

• Keep the top and bottom of the ladder clear of debris

4. Adjust Climbing Technique in the Cold

Teach workers to:

• Move slowly and deliberately

• Maintain three points of contact

• Test each rung before shifting weight

• Not overreach, especially if bulky clothing restricts mobility

5. Monitor Weather Conditions

Stop ladder work when:

• Winds exceed safe operating limits

• Ice forms faster than it can be removed

• Visibility becomes too poor

Encourage supervisors to enforce weather-based safety decisions.

6. Provide Winter-Specific Ladder Safety Training

Training should cover:

• Recognizing ice-influenced hazards

• Proper winter PPE

• Adjusted climbing techniques

• Emergency response for cold-related incidents

Winter Requires a Higher Standard of Ladder Safety

Cold weather changes everything about ladder safety—surfaces, materials, mobility, and stability. By understanding these winter-specific risks and training workers accordingly, your team can reduce slips, falls, and equipment failures during the harshest months of the year.

Winter ladder safety isn’t optional. It’s essential.

Protect Your Team with Expert Winter Safety Training

Want to make sure your crew is fully prepared for cold-weather hazards?
Contact Basin Safety today for ladder safety training, winter hazard programs, and customized site assessments to keep your team safe all season long.