Severe winter weather is expected to impact large portions of the country, bringing ice, snow, and freezing temperatures to areas that do not typically experience prolonged winter conditions. Snow, ice, and extreme cold introduce hazards across dealership properties—from vehicle lots and service drives to shop entrances and outdoor work areas.
Common winter injury drivers at dealerships include slip-and-fall incidents on icy lots and service drives, carbon monoxide exposure in service bays, injuries during snow removal or vehicle relocation, and visibility and traction issues unique to large outdoor facilities. These risks increase quickly when temperatures drop and should be addressed before conditions deteriorate.
Cold Weather Increases Workplace Risk
Lower temperatures create heightened risk for employees who spend time outdoors or move between indoor and outdoor environments, including lot staff, porters, service advisors, technicians, and anyone responsible for snow or ice removal. While OSHA does not have a cold-weather standard, employers are expected to identify and control recognized hazards that can emerge during winter operations.
Dealerships should revisit their hazard assessments when seasonal conditions change. Tasks that are routine in warmer months may present different risks in winter due to icy surfaces, reduced traction, wind exposure, and limited visibility.
Practical Steps to Protect Employees
OSHA guidance and industry best practices recommend that employers take reasonable steps to reduce cold-related hazards, including:
- Training employees on winter-related risks such as frostbite, hypothermia, and slip-and-fall hazards.
- Managing carbon monoxide risks by ensuring proper ventilation if vehicles are idling indoors to warm up.
- Providing access to warm indoor areas for breaks and recovery.
- Implementing engineering controls such as temporary heaters, improved lighting, and prompt de-icing of walkways, lots, and service lanes.
Watch for Secondary Risks
Dealers should also be aware of secondary risks associated with winter gear. Bulky clothing or thick gloves can interfere with machinery, reduce dexterity, or create entanglement hazards. Goggles, face coverings, or face shields may fog in cold temperatures, impairing visibility. Supervisors should be trained to recognize these issues and ensure that suitable alternative PPE is available where needed.
ComplyAuto Can Help
Winter conditions are unavoidable, but winter injuries are not. Dealerships that focus on where risk actually arises—and adjust operations accordingly—are better positioned to protect employees and keep facilities operating safely throughout the season. From OSHA and workplace safety programs to on-site inspections and risk assessments, our platform makes it easier for dealers to stay inspection-ready, avoid costly fines, and protect both employees and customers.