Winter Hazards Preparedness

Winter conditions bring us a whole new host of hazards we need to contend with. One of the most common hazards is slipping on ice or snow. We must be very proactive with our safety program and the preparation of our work areas. Housekeeping is also very important; materials covered with snow can be a slippery hidden hazard. Steel with frozen rain/ice or snow is dangerous as well.

When you get to your work areas make sure you assess the condition and do whatever is required to make it safe for you and others to work there. If you have concerns with the safety of your work area call your Supervisor so that he or she can be involved in the control measures or to reassign you another task until the situation is corrected.

Safety Practices

Practice good housekeeping; do not leave materials on the ground that can be covered by snow. Place materials on dunnage where they can be seen. Do not leave any plastic tarps, polly, sheets of steel on the ground, it is like stepping on ice when you step on these.

With winter weather comes colder temperatures and the need for heavier work clothing. Heavier winter clothing can restrict your movement and be cumbersome, which means you have to move more carefully. We also need to look at our work boots to ensure we have good treads to help prevent slipping on snow and ice. Some workers choose to switch over to felt lined winter boot, these boots generally have excellent winter treads on them.

With winter weather and slippery conditions we all need to slow down and use extra caution, yes sanding helps but with continuous snow fall it only takes minutes to cover the sand. The labourers will continue to sand as required but once again take it easy and watch your footing. Remember not to rush and keep your eyes and mind on task.