In the winter months, snow and ice reduce traction, limit vehicle maneuverability, and increase the risk of accidents. Poor conditions compound existing operating hazards as most production, transportation, and distribution operations try to keep moving even in bad weather.
Outside the four fences, winter weather conditions also disrupt over-the-road freight movements which have a ripple effect on an operation, affecting customer delivery commitments and OTIF performance.
While inclement weather cannot be fully predicted or eliminated, there are several ways for employees who manage yard operations to navigate winter weather-related hazards safely.
With trucks entering and leaving yard facilities throughout the day, managers, drivers, and gate attendants must stay alert to changing weather conditions. From the gate to the dock, maintaining a safe yard during the winter months takes some advance planning, consistent standard operating procedures (SOPs), and frequent assessments of changing conditions.
Start at the entry gate, where incoming trucks encounter their first potential winter hazards. Inspect gate approaches for icy pavement, standing water and other conditions that could interfere with safe vehicle movements. Look out for sloped lanes and shaded areas where ice can accumulate even after crews treat other parts of the property.
Check exterior lighting, maintain adequate visibility for approaching drivers and keep snow removal equipment and deicing materials readily available. Regular weather monitoring and communication help yard personnel anticipate changing conditions and adjust their operations accordingly.
Pay attention to trailer parking areas, internal roadways, and routes that spotter operators use throughout their shifts. Snow accumulation can conceal pavement markings and other hazards, while standing water and soft ground may compromise the stability of parked equipment. Pinpoint any other high-risk areas, restrict access when necessary, and establish safe routes for drivers navigating the property.
Have employees inspect yard conditions before each shift to identify hazardous areas and report problems before equipment begins operating. Reassess conditions frequently and communicate any changes to drivers, especially during periods of heavy precipitation or freezing temperatures.
Spotter operators spend much of their shift moving trailers around busy facilities. In the winter months as drivers conduct pre-shift and pre-trip inspections, they should confirm that winter emergency supplies are available and review any weather-related operating restrictions for the day. They should also follow established coupling procedures, verify trailer connections, and take extra care when entering or exiting their vehicles.
Driver safety also extends beyond operating the equipment. Operators should always wear slip-resistant footwear and maintain three points of contact (two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand) when climbing into or out of equipment. This helps reduce fall risks on icy surfaces.
During peak shipping periods, supervisors should reinforce these procedures and encourage drivers to maintain safe operating speeds despite tight schedules and increased traffic.
At the loading dock, inspect dock aprons, trailer steps, and pedestrian walkways for accumulated snow and ice. Prioritize snow removal in these areas, inspect lighting, and ensure that dock equipment and trailer restraints function properly. Employees should also remove ice and debris from trailer and spotter steps and use available handholds when climbing.
Pay particular attention to dock door seals and brushes, which — when damaged or worn — can allow cold air and moisture into the building. Verify that trailers are properly secured or restrained in accordance with site procedures (this applies in all weather conditions), and especially when the ground is wet, icy or slippery. Finally, inspect ramps and stairs for snow that could melt and refreeze as temperatures fluctuate.
Managers should also review severe-weather response procedures, including communication protocols and criteria for suspending operations when conditions become unsafe. Then use regular training and safety assessments to reinforce these precautions throughout the winter season.
At YMX Logistics, we emphasize regular safety training, pre-shift inspections, and consistent communication to help drivers and yard personnel recognize hazards and respond appropriately.
Every facility should have established procedures for monitoring weather conditions, assessing (and re-assessing) hazardous areas, effective onsite communications, and empowering teams with the training and authority to know when to stop operations if conditions become unsafe.
By making these practices part of daily yard operations, companies can reduce accident risks, protect their employees and keep freight moving safely throughout the winter months.