Toolbox Talk – Winter Working
Discussion
Poorer weather in the winter months can lead to difficulties in our workplaces. There is a rise in the number of slip incidents during winter. Wet, icy or snowy areas are the most significant cause of slips during severe weather. A slip incident can result in a serious injury, impacting a worker’s work and home life.
Key Points
• The presence of rain, ice and snow will cause an increased risk of injuries through slips and falls
• Reduced daylight may cause issues, particularly in poorly lit areas
• Poor visibility due to shorter days may mean difficulty in seeing colleagues and vehicles
• Lifting and manual handling of materials that are cold or wet can be more difficult to manage
• Colder weather reduces alertness and impacts physical ability, such as dexterity, potentially leading to an increased risk of personal injury for those working externally
• Welfare facilities may be disrupted due to frozen pipework
What To Do
• Keep routes clear of large puddles, ice and snow at all times. Be aware of walkways becoming frozen during colder spells
• Ensure you are wearing the right protective clothing for all work activities, as well as being suitable for the weather conditions
– thermal clothing, gloves type, hard hat liner, etc.
• Maintain all hi-visibility clothing in good, clean condition – request a new hi-vis if needed
• Raise awareness of the potential for slips, particularly in poorly lit areas – Don’t walk past unsafe conditions; report to personnel who can record on Industry Safe
• Good housekeeping is important to avoid slips, trips and falls, more importantly in darker or low-light conditions
Be aware of the impact of cold weather on your work area and your physical well-being. Ensure the right equipment is worn to reduce the impact of an incident.
Be particularly aware of the risk of slipping while walking around the site due to rain-affected areas or icy and slippery walkways.
If you think it is unsafe to work, please report this to the site manager.
