On the heels of a hot summer for most of the country, it’s time to turn our attention to what lies ahead with cooler and wetter weather and keeping contractors safe on the job. Although many construction projects take place in the spring and summer, projects don’t pause just because it’s cold, wet, or icy outside. In fact, a lot of commercial projects get underway during the winter months, as traditionally there are more available contractors, which could lower labor costs, and permits can be faster to obtain.
Construction workers during the winter are exposed to various hazards, including falls from slipping or skidding on frozen surfaces; frostbite; cold stress, which occurs when the skin and body temperature decrease due to either long-term exposure to cold temperatures or even short-term exposure to severe cold-weather conditions; hypothermia, which can result from windy conditions, exhaustion, and wet clothing; loss of dexterity; and loss of alertness.
Keeping the workers safe on the job site during the winter involves various measures. Following are some tips to revisit and ensure that they are being properly implemented.
Workplace safety helps prevent employee injuries, boosts morale, and averts project delays. Step up your safety program to take into account weather changes over the next several months.