Cold-Weather Safety Tips for Skid Steers and Tractors

Winter conditions can make even the most familiar worksite a hazard with snow, freezing temps, and black ice turning routine tasks risky. The quickest way to sideline your equipment is to skip proper safety precautions when it’s icy and cold out. Everyone wants to stay productive through the end of the year, but neglecting proper care is bad news and can result in downtime, damage, or worse.

The good news? A little prep goes a long way. From pre-op checks to traction tweaks, a few simple changes before you fire up your machine can keep your equipment running smoothly and the winter season accident-free.

Pre-Operation Checks & Machine Prep

Cold weather is hard on equipment, and your first line of defense is a thorough inspection. Here are a few things to check before you get to work.

Fluids: Cold thickens fluids. Consider switching to winter-grade hydraulic oil, using fuel additives to prevent gelling, and have anti-freeze on hand to prevent freezing.

Batteries: Cold weather weakens batteries, making it harder for them to keep their charge. If possible, store your battery indoors to ensure reliable starting.

Tires: Cold weather can cause the pressure in your tires to drop. Inspect for proper tread and underinflation throughout the season.

Lights: Visibility is key on overcast or snowy days. Periodically check that all headlights, work lights, and signal lights are clean and functioning.

Attachments: Inspect attachments for cracks or wear, as components like hydraulic hoses and fittings can become brittle in colder weather.

Pro tip: Let your equipment idle for a few minutes before jumping into heavy work. Giving the engine and hydraulics a chance to warm up helps protect seals, hoses, and other components from unnecessary stress.

A bit of post-operation care goes a long way too. Make sure to clear packed snow and ice from undercarriages, joints, and cylinders before shutting it down for the day.

Winter-Ready Traction

Good traction is especially crucial in the winter months when slippery surfaces turn steady ground into a slick mess. Here are some ways to add extra traction to your setup beyond just checking the tread and inflation.

• Tire choice: Standard and all-purpose tires can slip on ice, so choose a winter-rated tire with extra grip.
• Tire chains: Adding chains on your tires can improve grip on ice and packed snow.
• Ballast and counterweights: Adding rear ballast and weights improves stability and helps prevent spinning in icy conditions.
• Surface prep: Spread sand or gravel in work areas for better grip and footing.

Cold Weather Operation

Cold weather changes how machines operate—but it also affects how operators behave. You’ll want to give some extra thought here:

Operator Safety

• Cab conditions: Make sure your cab is heated and properly sealed.
• Clothing: Wear gear that allows for full movement without being so loose it can catch on controls.
• Seatbelt and safety features: Always wear your seatbelt and never disable safety features.

Visibility

• Visibility: Make sure windshield wipers are working and the windshield washer system is using anti-freezing fluid.
• Defrost: Keep windows and mirrors defrosted.
• Night operation: Increase visibility with reflective markers, bright work lights, and functional backup alarms.

Machine Handling

• Smooth movement: Avoid abrupt starts and stops to prevent sliding or tipping.
• Throttle discipline: Gentle control prevents spinning and helps maintain traction.
• Hydraulic breaks: Let your system rest periodically to prevent overheating or freezing.

Environmental Awareness

• Slippery surfaces: Be extra cautious on ramps, bridges, or inclines.
• Loads: Keep loads low and close to the ground to prevent rollovers.
• Clear paths: Remove snow, ice, or debris from the work area before moving to avoid hidden hazards.

Attachment Safety & Storage

Attachments are only as safe as their setup. Here’s how to make sure everything is secure before you start work.

• Inspect before use: Low temps make components more susceptible to damage, so check welds, pins, couplers, and hydraulic hoses for cracks or ice buildup.
• Quick-attach systems: Metal contracts in cold, which can create loose connections. Confirm that latches are fully engaged before operating.
• Visibility checks: Keep plow blades, grapple arms, and bucket edges clear of snow and mud to prevent creating blind spots.

Another way to keep your attachments working right in winter conditions is by taking care of them when you’re not using them. Store your attachments indoors whenever possible. If you must store them outdoors, use a heavy, waterproof tarp or cover. You can also apply a light protective lubricant to metal components to prevent corrosion.

Bonus Tips

Operator Visibility & Awareness: Add mirrors, lights, or even cameras to combat glare and increase visibility with snowbanks and blowing snow.

Emergency Preparedness: Keep a first aid kit, flashlight, blanket, phone charger, traction boards, and emergency contact info in the cab.

Training & Routine: If you have a team, have short winter safety refreshers to remind your team about winter hazards, safe operation, and best practices.

Keep your Operation Moving When Winter Hits

When you’re up against snow, ice, and low temps, preparation is everything. A few minutes spent prepping your machine, attachments, and environment can save hours of downtime and keep you safe during the winter months.

Need reliable attachments for winter work? Explore Titan’s lineup of snow pushers, plows, and grapples built to handle the toughest cold-weather conditions.

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