Winter Preparations to Make for a Safe Worksite
Winter is certainly coming, and now is the time to take different aspects of your safety into consideration when preparing to brave the elements go and out on the job.
Don’t let the cold get you down! Here are our top 4 safety tips for keeping safe when facing the cold this season.
1) Dress appropriately
Not only does this include dressing warmly to protect yourself from harsh winds and temperatures, but also wearing the right equipment. Wear warm, loose layers that will enable blood flow and provide insulation. With layers, you can remove or add as necessary throughout the day as temperatures fluctuate.
Boots are a must in the winter if they aren’t already an overall necessity for your job. Be sure to wear boots with proper traction, as you may be working in icy, slippery conditions.
2) Ready your machinery
Salt spray is everywhere this time of year. Protect your equipment by covering it up when you’re transporting it. This will help to protect parts of your machinery from corrosion. It’s a good idea to regularly wash your equipment as well.
Winter-ready fluids will help to prevent internal gelling and more. Check your operator manual to see what fluids are best to use in cold weather conditions and follow those recommendations. Your machine’s owner’s manual is going to be your best bet in making sure that you don’t damage or harm your equipment not only during the winter season but year-round as well.
Also, be sure to prepare for the extra time the cold weather may mean for your work. When working with certain materials, things may take longer to settle or dry when temperatures are low.
3) Pay attention while working
Be aware of your surroundings if you’re working in the forest. If you’re near a mountainside where avalanches are possible, you need to know the signs and how to respond. Know the conditions of the area in which you are working. Check out this post to learn more about the equipment you should have on hand.
Always know where your coworkers are situated to prevent any possible injury. Also, be aware of your foot and equipment placement. Avoid a slip at all costs. Check out this post on climbing safely to prevent a fall.
4) Know your limits
Check the weather before you leave for your shift to make sure you’re as prepared as you can be. Make sure to check the weather in the area you’ll be working rather than at home!
Just as overheating in the summer can be fatal, so can cold stress. It’s important to know your limits when you’re outside this season, and let people know if you aren’t feeling right.
Be sure to have water, warm drinks, and food on hand, as well as a first aid kit if one won’t be available on site. Make sure you have a cell phone that is charged in the event that you need to call someone for any reason while on the job.
With these tips, you’re on your way to a safer, slightly-warmer day on the job.
Sources:
https://www.constructiondive.com/news/5-tips-to-prepare-construction-sites-for-winter/429609/
http://www.northumberlandcounty.ca/en/departments_countyadministration_countyforest/resources/Trails_noticessigns/Winter_Safety_Tips_flyer.pdf
https://www.tigercat.com/service-tips/winter-care-for-forestry-machines/
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