Preparedness
Outdoor work requires proper preparation, especially in severe winter weather conditions. Although OSHA does not have a specific standard that covers working in cold environments, employers have a responsibility to provide workers with employment and a place of employment which are free from recognized hazards, including winter weather related hazards, which are causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm to them (General Duty Clause). Employers should, therefore, train workers on the hazards of the job and safety measures to use, such as engineering controls and safe work practices, that will protect workers' safety and health.
71-112 General Duty Clause
A. Employers shall maintain a place of employment which is free of recognized hazards which may cause death or serious physical harm to his employees and he shall comply with this regulation and other occupational safety and health rules and regulations promulgated under Chapter 15 of Title 41, Code of Laws, State of South Carolina, 1976, as amended.
B. Each employee shall comply with occupational safety and health rules and regulations promulgated under Chapter 15 of Title 41, Code of Laws, State of South Carolina, 1976, as amended; and, all employers' rules and regulations designed to protect him from recognized hazards for which there is no state occupational safety and health rule or regulation covering such situations.