The UK weather is known for being unpredictable, and winter is no different.
In fact, UK winters are now 1°C warmer and 15% wetter on average – yet at the same time, still susceptible to unexpected icy snaps. This can make working outdoors even more challenging and unpredictable.
From battling icy conditions to sheltering from heavy rainfall, UK roofers are seeing significant impacts from changing winter weather conditions. In fact, Marley’s recent research reveals 60% are experiencing increased delays to projects, 54% are seeing projects going over budget and 54% are having to replan work more often.
What’s concerning is that all of these impacts is leading to 53% seeing a rise in customer dissatisfaction as a result.
To support the safety of roofers and other outdoor construction workers throughout the winter months, leading roof systems manufacturer, Marley, has launched its Winter Safety campaign – offering essential support and guidance, for whatever the weather throws at them.
Dan Redfern, Marketing Communications Manager at Marley, said: “Our goal with this campaign is to help roofers stay safe while continuing to deliver quality work throughout the winter. Whether it’s offering practical safety tips, or providing resources for winter weather preparedness, we want to ensure roofers are equipped with everything they need to remain safe on site.”
Essential Tips for Winter Roofing
Roofers are encouraged to follow a few key guidelines to help mitigate winter-specific risks:
- Reduced winter daylight: As number of daylight hours decreases, it’s essential that roofers ensure they leave sufficient time to collect all tools and equipment and make their way safely to ground level before darkness descends. In some special circumstances, it may be possible to work under artificial light, providing this in line with the job specific risk assessment and method statement (RAMS).
- Correct PPE: Cold, wet and windy conditions require specialist PPE to protect from the elements. Roofers should ensure they have insulated clothing, suitable headgear for extra warmth (special liners are available for hard-hats), safety boots which are checked to ensure the soles and uppers are in good condition and gloves designed for winter use.
- Safe Working Conditions: Roofs can become slippery in winter. Roofers should ensure that surfaces are cleared of snow and ice before accessing the roof. Where the choice exists, it is often better to start work on the side of the roof facing the sun as this is likely to defrost quicker and feel a few degrees warmer. Roofers should also be mindful of the risk of frostbite or hypothermia in extremely cold conditions and follow any guidance given in tool box talks or similar, on working in cold conditions.
In addition to safety advice, Marley is also giving away 500 branded insulated mugs, together with a £5 Costa Coffee voucher.
“We know that the winter months can be particularly tough on roofers, but with the right planning and precautions, roofing can continue safely and successfully,” adds Dan. “Our campaign is about providing the tools and knowledge roofers need to face these challenges head-on.”
To learn more about Marley’s Winter Safety Campaign, access resources, or tips, visit Marley’s website.
