As winter approaches, a normal working day can start looking very different. A delivery driver will start their daily round while it’s still dark outside. A grounds worker might encounter an icy path at 8:00am. Or a tradesperson might spend hours working in cold wind and drizzle. Cold temperatures, slippery surfaces and reduced daylight bring additional risks to anyone who works outside. However, you can reduce these risks by preparing beforehand. Here are some practical steps that can help you stay safer and more comfortable when your job keeps you outdoors during the cold months.
Dress warm without compromising safety
A lightweight work jacket is enough in October, but will feel inadequate on a freezing January morning no matter how much you move around during the day. Wearing layers will help you stay warm without restricting movement, in addition to any personal protective equipment that your employer must provide. Depending on the role and risk assessment, specialised heated work clothes are a good option if you need to spend long periods in cold conditions. Think about what you’ll need throughout the day. Keep spare socks or gloves somewhere dry if your work involves rain or snow, and don’t hesitate to make use of warm rest areas. Always follow your employer’s PPE requirements rather than swapping protective equipment for something unsuitable.
Watch your step on ice, snow and wet ground
That puddle beside your van at 5pm can become an ice patch overnight. Conditions such as rain, frost, mud and compacted snow can introduce slipping hazards to familiar workplaces and routes. Use designated, well-lit roads and make sure that footwear is appropriate for the conditions and your job. Don’t rush across questionable ground, especially when carrying tools or packages. Report slippery or poorly maintained areas right away before a colleague encounters the same hazard.
Prepare for winter weather and darker working days
In winter, always check the forecast before heading out, particularly if you’ll be in exposed locations or are travelling between sites. It’s not just snow and ice that can cause hazards. Strong winds can affect work at height and unsecured materials. Heavy rain impacts visibility and creates slippery surfaces. Short winter days means jobs that began in daylight can finish at dusk so make sure lighting is still adequate at the end of the day, and wear high-visibility clothing.
Account for winter driving between jobs
If you have to travel between customers or sites, think of the road as part of your winter working environment. Check weather and traffic conditions before leaving and allow extra time in your schedule for winter-related delays. Thoroughly clear windows of ice and snow before setting off and adjust your speed and following distance as conditions change. Follow The Highway Code’s guidance for wet, icy, snowy, windy and foggy weather. Above all, if conditions worsen, don’t take unnecessary risks just because you don’t want to miss an appointment or delivery deadline.
Make winter safety part of the job
It’s worth taking the time to get ready for cold-weather working. What looks like harmless drizzle or an ordinary journey can quickly become a problem when temperatures drop. Dress appropriately, watch the ground ahead and beneath you, check the forecast and adapt your driving. Build those simple checks into each working day so you can confidently handle whatever winter weather throws at you.