When winter hits the Bakken, it doesn’t hold back. Temperatures drop below zero, wind chills cut through layers, and snow and ice create hazardous conditions for oilfield workers. For crews working outdoors, winter in North Dakota is not just uncomfortable—it can be life-threatening if the proper safety measures aren’t in place.

At Basin Safety, we understand the extreme conditions oilfield teams face every winter. That’s why we provide cold weather safety training, PPE assessments, and emergency preparedness tailored specifically to the Bakken region.

In this post, we’ll explore the critical components of winter oilfield safety and give you actionable steps to protect your crew this season.

Why Winter Safety in the Oilfield is Critical

Oilfield work already ranks among the most hazardous industries in the U.S.—and winter adds an entirely new layer of risk.

Common winter hazards:

• Frostbite and hypothermia

• Slips, trips, and falls on icy surfaces

• Equipment malfunctions due to freezing temperatures

• Reduced visibility during storms

• Vehicle accidents on slick roads

• Carbon monoxide poisoning in poorly ventilated shelters

Each of these hazards can lead to serious injury or even death if not managed properly. Employers have a responsibility to prepare their teams for these conditions, and workers must be equipped—both physically and mentally—to handle them.

Cold Weather PPE: Your First Line of Defense

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) must be adjusted seasonally to protect workers from cold stress and environmental exposure. The standard hard hat and FR coveralls aren’t enough in sub-zero temps.

Essential winter PPE for oilfield workers:

• Thermal base layers (moisture-wicking, not cotton)

• Insulated FR outerwear

• Cold-rated gloves and liners

• Balaclavas or face shields for wind protection

• Insulated steel-toe boots with slip-resistant soles

• Eye protection that won’t fog or freeze

At Basin Safety, we help teams evaluate their current PPE inventory and recommend proper layering techniques to avoid both under- and over-dressing—which can be equally dangerous.

Recognizing Cold Stress Symptoms Early

Training your crew to recognize the early signs of frostbite and hypothermia can be the difference between an injury report and a full recovery.

Frostbite symptoms:

• White or grayish skin patches

• Numbness or tingling

• Hard or waxy-looking skin

• Pain or burning during rewarming

Hypothermia symptoms:

• Shivering

• Confusion or slurred speech

• Drowsiness

• Loss of coordination

• Slow, shallow breathing

Encourage workers to report symptoms immediately and use the buddy system to monitor each other during prolonged exposure.

Heating Stations and Warm-Up Protocols

Every oilfield site should have designated heating stations or shelter areas where workers can warm up regularly. These areas should be:

• Enclosed and heated

• Well-ventilated (to prevent carbon monoxide build-up)

• Stocked with first aid and warm fluids

• Checked frequently for heater malfunctions

Break frequency should increase in extreme weather. Crews should rotate out of the cold every 30–60 minutes during sub-zero wind chills.

Safe Driving in the Bakken Winter

Oilfield crews spend a lot of time on the road. Winter conditions make that part of the job just as dangerous as being on the rig.

Winter driving safety checklist:

• Equip trucks with snow tires or chains

• Carry emergency supplies (blankets, flares, water, food)

• Inspect heaters, wipers, and defrosters

• Leave extra time for travel and avoid rushing

• Communicate routes and arrival times

Basin Safety offers winter driving safety briefings and refresher courses for drivers and equipment operators during the cold season.

Preparing for Winter Emergencies

If an emergency happens in the summer, responders often have a clear path. In winter, response times are delayed, and visibility may be low. This means preparation is key.

Winter emergency prep includes:

• Daily weather briefings during pre-shift meetings

• Updated evacuation plans for snow or whiteout conditions

• Site-specific rescue gear (sleds, blankets, heat packs)

• Training in cold-weather first aid

• Practice drills for winter-specific scenarios

Basin Safety’s Role in Winter Oilfield Readiness

Our Williston-based training center provides in-depth cold weather safety training for individuals and companies operating in the Bakken.

We offer:

• Winter PPE evaluations and recommendations

• Custom cold weather safety training for field crews

• Emergency response drills tailored to winter hazards

• On-site consultations and equipment checks

We understand the terrain. We’ve trained the teams. And we’re ready to help you get through this winter safely.

Final Word: Don’t Let Winter Catch You Off Guard

In North Dakota, winter doesn’t give second chances. Make sure your crew has the gear, training, and mindset to take on the elements.

Contact Basin Safety today to schedule your winter safety training or set up an on-site PPE inspection.

📍 202 48th Ave SW, Williston, ND
🌐 basinsafetyus.com
📞 [Phone Number]