With
recent long range weather forecasts suggesting the UK could be facing the
coldest winter for almost a decade, roof systems manufacturer Marley is urging
construction workers to get prepared for freezing winter temperatures.
Bitterly
cold weather, ice and shorter periods of daylight mean there is a much greater
risk of accidents on construction sites during the winter months.
As well
as the risk of slips and falls, prolonged exposure to the cold can cause
construction workers to suffer from more colds, bronchitis, asthma, painful
joints and fatigue. In extreme cases, workers outside for long periods,
without the right protection, could even suffer hypothermia and frostbite.
Pete Flynn, health and safety advisor at Marley, explains:
“While heavy snowfall usually brings work to a standstill, even the smallest
amount of snow or ice can create major hazards and health risks on building
sites. It is important that all construction workers understand the hazards of
working in winter and know what precautions to take when cold weather sets
in. Builders and sub-contractors must carry out their own thermal risk
assessments and take appropriate action to protect their employees.”
So, how should
construction workers prepare for winter weather?
For managers /
supervisors:
1 - Monitor the weather forecast so you
can anticipate and be prepared for poor weather conditions. Carry out a
risk assessment every day to check it is safe to work and conditions haven’t
changed. Pay particular attention to working at height platforms and do
not work on roofs in icy conditions - this is a requirement of the Working at
Height Regulations 2005.
2 - Make sure workers are trained on winter hazards and ensure
they have the appropriate PPE.
3 - Limit worker exposure to cold through job rotation
and provide plenty of breaks in heated areas with hot drinks available.
For site workers:
1 - Make sure you are wearing the right PPE and extra
clothing suitable for the job and the weather conditions. This usually
involves using several layers of clothing, as well as waterproofs or wind
resistant fabrics where necessary. Also, choose water resistant footwear,
with enhanced slip resistance or ice grips if required.
2 - Wear gloves when fine manual dexterity is not
required and the temperature drops below 4°C.
3 - Cold
weather increases the risk of hand-arm vibration syndrome, so keep your hands
and arms warm when using vibratory equipment such as drills, nails guns and
even hand tools, such as hammers.
4 - Choose
hats that work with safety headgear and don't compromise any eye or hearing
protection.
5 - Be aware of the symptoms of cold exposure – heavy
shivering, uncomfortable coldness, numbness, aching, severe fatigue, confusion,
drowsiness and/or euphoria.
6 - With reduced daylight hours, visibility can be a
problem, so wear reflective PPE.
7 - Take breaks in heated areas and drink plenty of
fluids, including water and warm beverages.
8 - Report any hazardous areas to the site manager and
do not put yourself at risk just to complete a job.
To help prepare for freezing temperature, Marley
is giving away hundreds of winter goodies. To apply for one of 500
free flasks, heat pads or ear bands, visit www.marley.co.uk/wintercampaign and fill in your details.
