MASTERCRAFT INTERIORS - Winter Driving & Jobsite Safety (OSHA/UOSH)
TOOLBOX TALK: Winter Driving & Jobsite Safety
Company: MasterCraft Interiors (MCI)

Objective and Scope (OSHA / UOSH)

Baseline Regulation: OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart O, Winter Weather & Cold Stress; applicable under UOSH (Utah State Plan).

Objective: To prevent crashes, loss of control, slips/falls, and cold-related injuries during commutes and jobsite activities in winter; to comply with OSHA/UOSH and GC policies.

Scope and Responsibilities

Applies to all drivers and personnel on public roads and within the jobsite (pick-up trucks, vans, commercial vehicles, and construction equipment). Immediate reporting of hazardous conditions and incidents is required according to UOSH.

Key Winter Hazards

  • Roads: Ice/'black ice', low visibility, extended braking distances.
  • Jobsite: Slippery surfaces, blind spot backing, narrow routes.
  • Personnel: Cold stress (hypothermia, frostbite, trench foot).

Pre-Shift Checklist (1926.601)

Before operating ANY vehicle, critical defects must be corrected. Do not operate unsafe vehicles.

A. Vehicle Inspection (1926.601 Compliance)

  • Brakes (including parking brake)
  • Steering
  • Tires (pressure and tread)
  • Lights, horn, and seat belts
  • Controls and safety devices (e.g., reverse alarm)

B. Specific Winter Preparation (Vehicle)

  • Battery
  • Antifreeze levels
  • Operational windshield wipers/blades
  • Functional defroster/de-icer
Mandatory Action! Completely clear all snow/ice (roof, hood, windshield, windows, and lights) before driving.

C. Onboard Winter Equipment (Stock)

Ensure you have: Ice scraper, shovel, salt/sand or traction aids, blanket, water, and a first-aid kit.

D. Driver Planning

  • Plan your route and check weather conditions.
  • Keep the fuel tank more than half full.
  • Prohibited: Do not use cruise control on slippery surfaces.

Safe Driving (Road & Jobsite)

On Roads and Access Points

  • Speed and Distance: Drastically reduce speed and increase following distance.
  • Smooth Maneuvers: Accelerate, brake, and turn smoothly, avoiding sudden movements.
  • Visibility and Skidding: Lights always on. If skidding, steer into the skid (towards where you want to go) and do not brake sharply.
  • Low Visibility: Pull over to a safe area off the road when necessary.

Jobsite Rules (Subpart O)

  • Respect internal speed limits and designated routes.
  • Ensure access points and pedestrian walkways are clear of snow/ice and have de-icing agents applied.
  • Keep all windows clean and defogged. Windshield wipers must be operational.
  • Backing Up: If the rear view is obstructed, you MUST use a working audible alarm or a designated spotter (signal person) to guide you.
  • Coordinate with the General Contractor (GC) for temporary closures due to snow/ice.

Personal Protection: Cold & Slips

1. Walking on Ice/Snow

Wear waterproof boots with good traction. Take short steps. Use handrails. Avoid over-carrying; use mechanical aids or assistance. Report and mark slippery spots.

2. Thermal PPE (Layers)

Wear layers: Base (moisture-wicking), Mid (insulating, wool/synthetic), and Outer (windproof/waterproof). Wear a hat/liner, insulated gloves, and extra socks.

3. Cold Stress

Symptoms: Hypothermia (severe shivering, confusion, slurred speech). Frostbite (pale/waxy, numb skin). Action: Move to a warm area, remove wet clothing, seek medical help.

Communication & Reporting (UOSH - Utah)

Serious incidents and hazardous conditions must be reported immediately according to UOSH protocols.

UOSH Reporting Phone: (801) 530-6901

Document weather conditions, applied controls, and internal routes in the daily report.

Critical Points (Non-Negotiable)

  • Daily vehicle inspection before shift (1926.601).
  • Blind backing is prohibited: use an audible alarm or a spotter (signal person).
  • Clear snow/ice from all traffic surfaces and apply de-icing agents.
  • Wear appropriate thermal PPE and take breaks in warm areas.
  • Reduce speed and increase following distance in snow/ice.
  • Immediately report incidents or hazards to supervision and UOSH.

Comprehension Check (Quiz)

Quick Quiz (OSHA / UOSH)

1. What elements does OSHA require daily inspection for under 1926.601?

Oil level and radio
Brakes, steering, lights, seat belt, horn
Only tires and defroster

2. What do you do if your rear view is obstructed when backing up?

Honk the horn and back up slowly
Roll down the window and lean out
Use an audible alarm or a spotter

3. Name two symptoms of hypothermia.

Intense shivering and confusion
Sweating and thirst
Headache and hunger

4. Why is it dangerous to use 'cruise control' in snow/ice?

Because it consumes more gas in cold weather
Because it reduces control over traction when skidding
Because it's illegal in Utah in winter

5. What is the UOSH phone number for reporting serious incidents?

911
411
(801) 530-6901

Video Resources (YouTube)

Watch this safety talk video to reinforce key points:

MASTERCRAFT INTERIORS Team Commitment

Winter safety depends on your preparation BEFORE you start the engine. There are no shortcuts when ice and snow are present.

Participation Statement:
"I have received training on Winter Driving and Jobsite Safety according to OSHA 1926.601 and UOSH requirements, and I understand my responsibilities."

YOUR SAFETY IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY

  • Inspect your vehicle and PPE before each shift.
  • Report unsafe conditions immediately.
  • Drive defensively and be prepared for the unexpected.

Safety First, Always.