Winter weather - key tips for construction site preparation
Winter weather has a significant impact on productivity, equipment, materials and crucially, the health and safety of workers on a construction site. You can never take anything for granted when it comes to preparing for winter weather so it's vital to take proper precautions and plan as far in advance as possible.
Plan ahead
Regularly check for weather updates to help you plan as far in advance as possible.
Complete a winter weather risk assessment to help determine the correct plan of action when winter weather approaches. This should include worker training and protection, material/equipment storage and protection, and the clearing roads/walkways.
Prepare for unexpected days off due to icy conditions, high winds or bad visibility. Consider alternative arrangements in advance such as weekend work that will help make up for lost time.
Equipment
Store equipment in heated areas.
Install air monitoring devices if equipment is to be operated in enclosed areas.
Ensure all equipment is inspected prior to use.
Don't wait until the last minute to start preparing equipment for cold weather conditions.
Heating
Mobile heaters can raise interior temperatures to enable work to continue (never leave heaters unattended!).
Maintain adequate clearance zones and develop fuel storage plans.
Heat and insulate water pipes to prevent freezing.
Ensure positive airflow to maintain breathable air.
Worker safety
Educate workers on how to work safely in cold temperatures and on the symptoms of winter illnesses such as hypothermia and frostbite.
Consider breaking up individual workloads to limit worker exposure and physical exertion.
Provide workers with a heated break area where hot drinks are accessible.
Ensure workers are wearing protective clothing to help them stay warm. Workers should also always wear hard hats and footwear with adequate traction.
Remove snow and ice from the jobsite everyday and consider applying grit to walkways to reduce the risk of slips, trips and falls.
Ensuring structural integrity of materials
Concrete and masonry related work can take much longer and even fail if proper precautions are not taken.
In order for concrete to reach necessary strength levels, it cannot be allowed to freeze during the first 24 hours after being poured or placed.
Mortar mix must be kept from freezing and at warm enough temperatures during the initial phases of installation to perform properly.
In low enough temperatures, the lifespan of paint can be reduced and can become susceptible to issues such as mildew growth.
