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Risk Advisor Konnect: November 2025

By Drew Lester • 11/20/2025

Winter Safety & HR Readiness: Your Guide to Closing Out 2025 Strong

As the year winds down and temperatures drop, organizations face a dual challenge: keeping employees safe during harsh winter conditions while also preparing HR operations for a successful year ahead. Addressing both safety and people strategy now ensures a safer, smoother, and more productive start to 2026.

Below, we break down two major year-end priorities every business should be thinking about: winter safety preparation and HR year-end planning.

❄️ Winter Safety: Preparing Your Workplace and Team for the Cold Season

Winter weather introduces unique risks—from icy roads to cold stress injuries—that can disrupt operations and put employees in harm’s way. Taking proactive steps now helps maintain safety and productivity all season long.

Recognizing Cold Stress: Know the Warning Signs

Workers exposed to cold, wind, or wet conditions face increased risk for cold-related illnesses and injuries. Key conditions include:

Frostbite

  • Pale, waxy, or hardened skin

  • Tingling or numbness

  • Common on fingers, toes, nose, and ears

Hypothermia

  • Shivering

  • Confusion or slurred speech

  • Fatigue and drowsiness
    Seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms appear.

Trench Foot

  • Redness, swelling, or numbness

  • Caused by prolonged exposure to wet, cold environments

Prevention tip: Equip employees with layered, moisture-wicking clothing, insulated gloves and boots, and schedule routine warm-up breaks in heated spaces.

🚗 Winter Driving Safety: Protect Your Fleet and Commuters

Icy and snowy conditions demand heightened driving awareness.

Encourage drivers to:

  • Inspect tire pressure and tread

  • Clear ice and snow from all windows and mirrors

  • Increase following distances

  • Slow down and stay alert, especially in low-visibility zones

All company vehicles should be stocked with:

  • Blankets

  • Flashlights

  • First-aid supplies

  • Other basic emergency kit essentials

🏢 Prepare Your Facilities and Jobsites

Before freezing weather hits:

  • Treat walkways, parking lots, and loading areas for slip hazards

  • Apply salt, sand, or traction aids

  • Test heating systems and emergency lighting

  • Review your snow removal plan and make sure equipment is ready

Encourage employees to immediately report icy spots or unsafe conditions. A safety-minded culture keeps everyone protected.

📘 End-of-Year HR Checklist: Setting Up for Success in 2026

While safety teams prepare for winter risks, HR leaders face an equally important task: closing out the year and ensuring people strategies are aligned for the months ahead.

Here are essential areas to review before the calendar turns:

1. Review and Update Your Employee Handbook

Confirm that policies reflect:

  • New legal requirements

  • Evolving workplace practices

  • Changes in company culture
    Consider what you want to add or revise for 2026.

2. Clarify Strategic Priorities for the New Year

Identify where your organization will focus:

  • Customer service

  • Operational accuracy

  • Innovation

  • Growth
    When leaders clearly define priorities, teams can align their daily behaviors with bigger business goals.

3. Establish Goals and KPIs for 2026

Employees perform best when expectations are clear. Set measurable KPIs to drive accountability and success.

4. Strengthen Communication and Engagement

Once goals and priorities are set, share them transparently. Employees who understand why changes are happening are more committed and engaged.

5. Plan Your Training Strategy

Consider training that supports your upcoming initiatives, such as:

  • Performance management for leaders

  • Compliance (FMLA, ADA, etc.)

  • Annual harassment training for all employees

6. Review Budgets, Benefits, and Staffing Plans

Make sure your people-related resources support next year’s goals. Early planning helps reduce surprises and last-minute adjustments.

🛠️ About Risk Advisor Konnect

Risk Advisor Konnect is a resource powered by our agency that provides expert guidance on:

  1. Safety & OSHA Compliance

  2. Human Resources

  3. Claims

  4. DOT/FMCSA Compliance

Clients often come to us with questions like:

  • “Do I need to maintain OSHA 300 logs?”

  • “Is an employee injury while driving to a customer a workers’ comp claim or an auto claim?”

  • “How do we ensure our drivers meet FMCSA qualification standards?”

  • “An employee reported harassment—what should I do next?”

We’re here to help you navigate these challenges confidently.

Stronger, Safer, and Better Prepared

From winter safety measures to strategic HR planning, taking action now sets the foundation for a productive and compliant year ahead. Stay warm, stay alert, and stay focused—2026 is right around the corner.

 

All Lester Insurance Commercial Customers have access to Risk Advisor Konnect

Call 888.976.7565 or email myriskadvisor@keystoneinsgrp.com

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