FEATURE
COLD WEATHER? ITS SNOW PROBLEM
Luke Rothwell, Director at Bunkabin, provides practical advice on the most common issues companies will face when temperatures fall below freezing to ensure work can continue safely and productively even during the coldest time of the year.
As temperatures continue to plummet and inclement weather sets in, businesses that depend on outdoor work are hit with challenges that make it difficult to complete projects, and ensure the health and safety of their workforce. Since nothing can be done to change the weather itself, the responsibility falls on employers to carefully consider all of the unique risks, and take the necessary steps to mitigate them. With almost three million workers
employed by sectors such as construction and agriculture, for whom working outside is part of their daily occupation, this is no mean feat. Here are some initial things to consider.
1) SEVERE SNOW AND STORMY WEATHER Adverse weather conditions, such as snowstorms, can result in shutdowns and delays for projects that rely on outdoor labour. Bad weather can also affect workers’ ability to commute to and from the site due to congested traffic conditions, slippery roads and poor visibility. This can lead to companies having to pay staff for work that was not completed, or staff being unable to reach work and not getting paid.
“A work schedule should be
developed that maximises the
amount of work that can be
completed during daylight hours.”
To help reduce the disruption caused by snow or storms, work should be planned around bad weather that can be anticipated, and potential delays should be accounted for in the overall project schedule. For commuters, employers should provide help with route planning and public transport, or consider eliminating the need for the commute altogether by providing on-site accommodation.
Sites should be protected by covering all surfaces and equipment with plastic sheeting and drainage ditches should be in place to prevent flooding or freezing. Staff should also be provided with the right clothing and protective equipment to carry on working safely through bad weather when possible.
2) SHORTER DAYLIGHT HOURS During winter, the earlier sunsets can make it harder to complete essential outdoor work, as the lack of light leads to reduced visibility and a potentially greater risk of accidents - especially when this darkness is combined with inclement weather conditions.
A work schedule should be developed that maximises the amount of work that can be
completed during daylight hours. Also, investing in on-site lighting will allow staff to safely continue their work even after the sun has gone down.
3) SLIPS, TRIPS AND FALLS Winter weather isn’t just a threat to productivity and profitability - it can exacerbate the health and safety risks inherent to working outdoors, and put staff members in real danger. Businesses have a legal and moral responsibility to take every necessary precaution.
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