Description
This bulletin is issued to compliment the HSQE Bulletin 10/19 Winter Driving and focuses on winter conditions at the workplace.
Lessons learned / Findings
Wind, freezing rain and ice can increase the risk around the workplace and potential workplace accidents and injuries. Therefore, a review of working arrangements should take place to ensure adequate controls are in place to reduce the risk of injury due to winter working conditions.
General Discussion Point
* Check the weather; consider a weather app e.g. weather channel, for your phone and plan accordingly to reduce the risk from bad weather, including lightning, hail fog, heavy rain.
* Increased risk of slips and trips due to wet and icy conditions. Take extra care during winter conditions and ensure you wear suitable footwear; e.g. non-slip, that is in good condition.
* Hypothermia/ Cold Stress due to exposure to low, freezing temperatures Rain can also cause loss of body heat, therefore wear appropriate clothing to keep dry and warm and prevent loss of body heat, consider creating warm break areas.
* Comply with local access controls for working on sites during snow, fog, lightning and other extreme weather.
* Driving off road can become more difficult and remember construction site vehicles are not as agile as cars. Consider first aid kits, reflective triangles and tow ropes.
* Keep your mobile phone charged
* Ensure you know the emergency arrangements in the event you are caught out or stranded due to winter weather.
* Consider if you need to attend sites or can make other arrangements.
* Clear key traffic/ walking routes and parking areas when possible to reduce the likelihood of slips and trips.
* Any perceived difficulty you may have travelling to or from work always discuss with your line manager/ foreman/ supervisor etc in the first instance.
* On windfarm’s be aware of the increased risk of ice throw from turning blades.
* Ensure office temperatures are sufficiently warm; e.g. 16C.
* Review Emergency arrangements and business continuity.
* In some countries severe hail can lead to vehicle damage, consider parking under cover.
* During discussions think of other hazards associated with winter working.
* Before travelling ensure correct tyres and treads, screen wash tank is full, bottle of water and food, windshield scraper, sunglasses to reduce glare cross reference winter driving bulletin 10-19
Acknowledgement
This information was provided by RES (HSQE Bulletin 14-19) and shared with SafetyOn for circulation