How can winter weather affect site safety

When it comes to site safety, each season can bring its hazards. From prolonged sun exposure in the summer to slippery fall conditions – winter is no exception. With some regions experiencing inclement weather that can turn quickly and present their site safety with numerous risks.

Whether you are undertaking minor construction work or taking on a large project, knowing the major hazards winter may bring can help you avoid being caught out and take the necessary steps to prevent accidents, injuries or equipment damage that can potentially throw you off schedule.

Read on to discover the 4 key site safety hazards to be mindful of this winter and ensure that your business is prepared and well-equipped.

Heavy rain & wet weather

Winter inevitably brings a dip in temperature, and with that, comes heavy rainfall and wet weather. Unexpected showers can put a halt to construction work but can also make sites extremely dangerous. However, even on dry days, winter days can also be quite damp and dewy. This will make walkways, machinery and surfaces slippery and potentially hazardous.

Poor visibility & cooler temperatures

During the cooler months, the days are also shorter. This can make construction sites unsafe due to poor visibility. Other weather hazards like mist and fog can make visibility much more difficult to manage.

Frost, Ice & Snow

Along with the dip in temperature, black ice and frost can pose a threat to the safety of sites as well as the team. Black ice can be virtually undetectable at times, particularly with fog and falling leaves obstructing your vision – this is a real hazard to walkways, stairs and ladders but also whilst using machinery.

Snow can also impact site safety, threatening site access. Heavy snowfall should also be taken into account when calculating the weight of load-bearing trench covers and structures.

Equipment malfunction

Extreme cold temperatures can cause mechanical equipment to seize up or malfunction, potentially causing delays or even accidents, putting you, your workers and the public at risk.

How can Oxford Plastics help?

At Oxford Plastics, we understand that keeping your workers and the public safe is top priority. Our safety products are engineered to reduce the risk of harm, particularly in difficult seasons such as Autumn and Winter. We provide a comprehensive range of intelligently designed site safety products that can be used across a wide range of industries.

LowPro 15/10

The LowPro 15/10 is intelligently designed for areas with high foot traffic. It’s easy to install and its edges provide a grip to the ground without the need for heavy machinery. The anti-slip technology is suitable for all weather conditions, giving you peace of mind over the winter period.

EnduraMat 2440

With winter weather comes muddy weather, which is where the EnduraMat 2440 comes in. The EnduraMat offers heavy duty ground protection suitable for worksites, events and any occasion you might need temporary access for.
You can set up the EnduraMat 2440 over mud, grass, and asphalt to make sites accessible and safe.

For more health and safety advice, read our guide to trench safety. Or read through our resources on safety and compliance here. Find out more about our full product range and get in touch today.