Whilst there are no specific standards about working in the cold, employers have a responsibility to create a safe and hazard-free environment – and this includes ensuring your employees have the information and training they need, to respond to hazards appropriately.
❄️ Blizzards, winter storms, snow and ice - the weather in the winter creates extra considerations when it comes to safety. For employees working outside during, or prior to, an incoming storm, the risks are elevated. Not only will the conditions impact their own body and mindset (being cold and wet), but other issues such as downed power lines, slippery surfaces and equipment, icy roads (including black ice) and windy conditions will all cause additional concern.
Therefore, take the time to cover this topic with your employees this January – make sure they feel prepared and supported.
Know the hazards and how to spot an issue. Here are a few topics to cover:
❄️ The signs of hypothermia and the signs of frostbite. Educating staff on how to spot these in themselves, as well as in their colleagues, is important.
❄️ The key risk factors of:
- being wet and/or cold for extended periods of time
- having a cold body temperature
- having a lack of effective Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- having underlying health conditions
- having a lack of fitness
As an employer, you could support your staff with:
🤝 Buddy systems – to ensure no one is working alone in hostile weather conditions
😌 Scheduled Breaks – to ensure frequent short breaks are taken, allowing for recovery
☕️ Hot Beverages – to ensure employees are warmed and sustained
If you’re not sure where to start when speaking to your employees about the signs and added risks of cold weather, get in touch with us – we’re happy to help.
abarrett@whatnosafety.co.uk | 01722 326 390 | www.whatnosafety.co.uk