Working safely on a construction site is something all construction workers should prioritise and be fully prepared for, no matter the time of year. However, working in horrible winter weather is a challenging task, even for the most experienced construction workers that are used to dealing with the standard on site challenges. All the usual hazards you’d experience on site are there but you also have the battle of dealing with extreme weather conditions and losing light very early on in the day. We’ve put together a guide on the best ways to work safely on your construction site over the winter months, along with some guidance on finding the right heating and lighting equipment for the weather change. 

Clearing Hazardous And Icy Areas

Keeping an eye on areas that could become hazardous across the construction site will help to keep workers safe. Some areas on site will become danger zones when the colder weather hits. These areas are often exposed to snow and ice and need to be cleared. Examples of these include ladders and scaffolding. It’s not safe for workers to continue operating when these areas are not clear to work on as it could lead to severe injury. Continue to shield any areas that could be hit by the extreme weather and consider using ‘grit’ to stop ice forming. 

Educating All Workers On Site Safety Procedures

Make sure that workers are aware of how to operate the site safely when the bad weather hits. Let them know the procedures for the site and the best ways to prevent any accidents. According to HSE here, there were 40 fatal injuries to construction site workers in 2019/2020, but there are 61,000 non-fatal injuries to workers each year. A huge 26% of these in the construction industry were from slips and trips. Site managers need to be aware of the dangers in harsher weather because slips and trips are more likely if work sites are prone to ice. Having signs up to warn workers of any dangerous hazards such as ice and to remind them of any protocols could go a long way.

Knowing And Preventing The Signs Of Illness 

Working in those colder temperatures can really take a toll on health. Workers should be taking regular warm breaks but should be aware of their limits if things get too much. Signs of hypothermia include fatigue, loss of coordination and confusion. It’s important that workers know the signs and know when to stop. As well as knowing the on site safety procedures, they should also be aware of their own limits and when something isn’t right with their health. Provide all workers with the correct PPE (personal protective equipment) such as gloves and weather-resistant boots so they can remain as warm as possible and to prevent illness.

Keep Employees Warm With Heating Equipment

Winter weather is unpredictable so it’s best to be prepared for all extremes. It is important that all workers stay warm whilst working on-site in colder conditions. Encouraging them to wear multiple layers of clothing is a given, but just wrapping up warm won’t completely do the trick. Having break areas on-site that have sufficient heating for workers will stop them from obtaining any illnesses, and therefore will be less likely to take any absences. If the weather gets a bit too cold, workers can take a break in a heated area. Hiring heating equipment is extremely beneficial when the weather starts to take a turn, keeping site workers happy and able to complete the tasks ahead. At Paragon Tool Hire, we have a range of heaters available to hire, keeping construction workers warm in those colder months.

Brighten Up The Dark Afternoons With Lighting Equipment

Making sure that workers maintain good vision whilst operating machinery is extremely important. If they can’t see what they’re doing there is an increased risk of danger, especially as the nights start to get darker earlier. Hiring lighting equipment can help keep the whole construction site safe, meaning site workers can continue the task at hand with good vision even in those darker days. At Paragon Tool Hire, our extensive range of construction lighting equipment can help brighten up those winter months so that your workers can complete any tasks they face at any time of day.

Consider Paragon Tool Hire Today.

At Paragon Tool Hire, we understand the importance of staying safe on construction sites during those colder months. We are Buckingham’s independent tool and plant hire company, with a range of lighting and heating products to ensure your construction site operates safely. View our extensive range of products here. If you have any more questions about on-site safety during winter, give us a call today on 0800 640 9878 to speak to a member of our expert team. Our local and friendly service is exactly what you’re looking for. We look forward to hearing from you.