Winter season is coming around again in DFW, so be prepared! For the last few years, winter infrastructure in Texas has struggled to keep up with the cold weather, so being prepared can mean the difference between success and failure in the manufacturing industry. To protect employee safety, equipment performance, and supply chain stability, it’s important for facility managers to prepare. In this article, we’ll go over helpful tips to ensure a robust and resilient North Texas operation, no matter how cold the winter.

Understanding Winter Weather Risks
Recognizing the specific risks associated with winter weather in a manufacturing environment is the first step in addressing them. Even in Texas, the winter season brings several hazards that can disrupt daily operations, including:
- Slip and Fall Hazards: Ice and snow increase the likelihood of slips and falls, even resulting in injuries or lawsuits. Indoor conditions, such as wet floors from snow tracked inside, can also cause slip hazards.
- Equipment Malfunctions: Cold temperatures can affect machinery, causing parts to freeze, lubricants to thicken, or systems to shut down. Snow or ice may also disrupt systems that depend on external sensors/power sources.
- Supply Chain Disruptions: Truck shipments may get delayed by winter weather. It can even cause delays in product distribution, especially if shipping yards or local roads are closed due to weather conditions.
Now you can decide on prevention methods to reduce these potential disruptions.
Winter Weather Preparation Strategies
- Conduct a Risk Assessment: A thorough risk assessment is the foundation of your winter preparedness plan. First, identify the most vulnerable areas of your facility – loading docks, parking lots, outdoor storage areas, etc. Consider how your operations will be affected by special weather, such as heavy snowstorms, freezing rain, or extreme cold. Use a winter checklist to evaluate risks. Consider factors like roof load capacity for snow accumulation and the effectiveness of drainage systems to prevent ice buildup.
- Example: Verify whether your building’s insulation and heating systems are sufficient to prevent freezing pipes or machine failures.
- Develop a Winter Weather Plan: Outline the roles and responsibilities of employees, key emergency contact information, and guidelines for snow and ice removal. Include plans for emergency repairs and contact information for snow removal contractors. Be sure to practice the plan regularly to ensure everyone is prepared when winter weather strikes.
- Stock Essential Supplies: Be sure you have a sufficient stock of materials such as ice melt, bulk road salt, sand, and shovels. It’s also important to have backup power sources, like additional fuel for generators and spare batteries for equipment.

Implementing Snow and Ice Management
- Engage Professional Services: If snow and ice removal isn’t within your team’s capability, consider hiring professional contractors. Look for a company that specializes in snow for manufacturing facilities, if possible. Establishing a service-level agreement (SLA) with contractors is a good way to ensure your facility is accessible and operational even after severe weather.
- Utilize Commercial Snow Plows and Equipment: Make sure your facility has access to commercial-grade snow plows, salt spreaders, and snow blowers on standby. These machines can handle large areas, reducing the time employees spend removing snow. Larger facilities might invest in higher-capacity snow removal equipment that can clear large parking lots, truck docks, and walkways.
- Regular Maintenance: Keep your snow removal equipment in proper condition, scheduling regular maintenance before the winter season. Check fuel levels, change the oil, and inspect blades/plows for damage. Don’t wait for a storm to test your equipment—do a dry run to be sure everything is operational and ready for use when needed.

Ensuring Employee Safety
- Training Programs: Train employees on how to stay safe during winter months. This includes proper footwear for icy conditions, safe lifting techniques, and guides for handling equipment in cold weather. Offer training sessions at the start of each winter season to remind employees of winter hazards and safety protocols.
- Clear Communication: Establish clear communication channels to keep employees informed about winter weather-related risks and operational changes. Use text alerts, emails, or an app to notify employees of facility closures, delays, or changes in work hours. Set up a system for employees to report hazardous conditions like ice accumulation or malfunctioning equipment.
- Provide Protective Gear: Make sure employees have appropriate winter clothing and safety gear, like insulated gloves, slip-resist boots, and high-visibility jackets. Provide employees with extra layers or heated gear during extreme cold to prevent frostbite or hypothermia.
Maintaining Operational Continuity
- Flexible Work Arrangements: If possible, implement flexible work hours to minimize the need for employees to drive during dangerous weather. Letting workers, especially those in administrative or digital roles perform certain tasks remotely can keep operations running while reducing the risk of traveling in snowy conditions.
- Supply Chain Management: Work with suppliers to develop backup plans in case winter weather disrupts shipments. Building a reserve of inventory ahead of time or diversifying suppliers can also minimize disruptions.
- Backup Power Solutions: Severe winter weather can lead to power outages. If possible, have backup power solutions, such as generators. Test backup systems to ensure they are ready when needed.
Conclusion
By following these essential winter weather advisory tips, DFW manufacturing facilities can enhance safety, reduce risks, and ensure continuous operations during harsh weather conditions. Planning ahead, training staff, and maintaining equipment are vital to minimizing issues and protecting workers and assets. The steps outlined in this guide will help you navigate the winter months with confidence, but also create a more adaptable operation that can withstand unpredictable weather in the future.