When winter storms hit, clearing snow becomes a necessity—but it’s not without risk. OSHA requires employers to train workers on the hazards they face and provide adequate controls to reduce those risks. For snow removal, this means understanding the physical demands of shoveling and taking steps to prevent injuries and cardiovascular strain.

Why Snow Shoveling Is Risky

Snow shoveling is more than a simple chore—it’s a strenuous activity that combines heavy lifting, repetitive motion, and exposure to cold temperatures. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), vigorous physical exertion, especially in cold weather, can significantly increase cardiovascular stress. In fact, snow shoveling has been linked to spikes in heart rate and blood pressure that may exceed those seen during maximal treadmill testing. For individuals with known or undiagnosed heart disease, this can trigger angina, arrhythmias, or even acute cardiac events such as heart attacks. Studies have documented sudden cardiac deaths and myocardial infarctions occurring shortly after major snowstorms, often among people who were sedentary or had underlying risk factors.

Beyond heart risks, improper technique can lead to musculoskeletal injuries, including back strain, shoulder pain, and slips or falls on icy surfaces.

OSHA Compliance Checklist for Snow Removal

• Hazard Assessment: Identify risks such as overexertion, slips, and cold stress.
• Employee Training: Cover proper shoveling technique, cardiovascular risks, and safe work practices.
• Provide Adequate Controls: Supply appropriate PPE (gloves, slip-resistant footwear) and ensure access to powered equipment where feasible.
• Safe Work Practices: Require warm-up exercises, pacing, breaks, and hydration.
• Emergency Preparedness: Train employees to recognize warning signs of cardiac distress and know emergency response procedures.
• Equipment Maintenance: Inspect shovels, snow blowers, and other tools before use.
• Report Hazards: Encourage prompt reporting of unsafe conditions or damaged equipment.

Training and Technique

OSHA emphasizes that employees should be trained on proper techniques to minimize these hazards. Key points include:

• Warm up first: Stretch and perform light movements to prepare muscles.
• Use the right shovel: Smaller blades and bent handles reduce strain.
• Push, don’t lift: Whenever possible, push or sweep snow instead of lifting.
• Lift smart: If lifting is unavoidable, bend at the knees and hips, keep the load close, and avoid twisting.
• Alternate sides: Switch between left- and right-handed shoveling to reduce repetitive stress.

Preventing Cardiovascular Strain

The AHA recommends pacing yourself and avoiding sudden, vigorous exertion. Here are practical measures:

• Start slowly: Begin with light effort and gradually increase intensity.
• Take breaks: Frequent pauses help control heart rate and breathing.
• Avoid triggers: Don’t shovel right after eating and skip caffeine or nicotine before starting.
• Dress in layers: Proper clothing helps regulate body temperature and reduce cold stress.
• Stay hydrated: Even in cold weather, dehydration can occur.

If you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness, stop immediately and seek medical attention.

Additional Controls

Employers should provide or encourage the use of:

• Powered snow removal equipment for trained staff to reduce physical strain.
• Slip-resistant footwear and ice grippers to prevent falls.
• Teamwork for large areas to distribute workload safely.

Bottom line: Snow shoveling is a high-risk activity for both musculoskeletal and cardiovascular health. With proper training, technique, and pacing, these risks can be significantly reduced. Employers and workers should treat snow removal as a serious task requiring preparation - not just another winter chore.

For more Winter Safety Tips, visit Walk Safe with MEMIC

Related MEMIC Blogs:

• Don’t Let Winter Take You Down: Protect Your Team with MEMIC’s Walk Safe Campaign
• Awareness and Prevention Are Key for the Top Three Winter Workplace Injuries
• Don’t Skate Around Snow Removal Equipment
• Taming the Dangerous Passage - Safely Entering and Exiting a Vehicle During Winter Weather
• Getting Ready For Winter Weather