Ensure your site is safe during the winter months

Winter weather has the potential to hit hard, with strong winds, low temperatures and, of course, lots of rain. All of these factors can cause hazards for you and your workers. From trips and slips, to numb fingers and damaged gear and equipment, cold temperatures call for specific measures to ensure that your site is safe during the cold and wet winter months.

Work doesn’t stop when winter weather rolls in, so it’s important to know what to do to keep your workers safe and warm.

Winter checks and inspections

When the winter weather starts rolling through it’s important for you to inspect your site. If you are somewhere that experiences snow, make sure that you clear all snow and ice from working surfaces and walking pathways that are used. Also make sure that scaffolding and ladders have been cleared. It’s important to stress the importance of fall safety protection when icy conditions are present.

Winter driving accidents

Vehicle accidents don’t just happen on the roads, they can also happen on-site. Stress to your team that winter driving rules for the road also apply to your site and it’s important that they take care while operating heavy machinery and equipment.

Watch the weather

The last thing you need is for the weather to catch you by surprise. Keep an eye on the forecast so you can give your workers adequate time to secure the site and get home safely if the weather takes a turn for the worse. The right PPE makes a difference

Be vigilant when ensuring that workers are wearing proper PPE and suitable clothing when winter weather conditions are present.

Hard hats should be worn to protect your workers in the case of a fall as well as falling objects. Using liners under the hard hat is a great way to stay warm and keep body heat from escaping. Use chin straps to avoid the hard hat falling off in windy conditions.

Safety glasses and goggles can be treated with anti-fog spray to prevent vision from becoming obstructed.

Gloves need to be carefully selected to ensure that workers will still have a good range of movement when working with tools and equipment.

Waterproof boots with non-slip soles should be worn along with two layers of socks to keep moisture away from the skin. By following these tips to optimise your crew’s safety, you can enjoy a productive winter while keeping your team safe.

Keen to know more about setting up your own health and safety system for your business, and how HazardCo can support you? Give our friendly team a call on 0800 555 339 or email info@hazardco.com.

The HazardCo Team. HazardCo is a NZCB National Partner and, as your trusted safety partner, we provide you with the tools and support you need to #SortYourSafety.