Winter is coming….No, Winter is here!

Posted on November 9, 2016

The Stark’s may say that winter is coming, Courtley know that winter is here!

With the cold snap well and truly set in, it is vital that all members of staff are vigilant at times of extreme weather.

Policies

Make sure that you have read, and understood, any policies or advice issued by your employer about local rules and procedures in the event of snow and ice.

Travel

When travelling to work, leave extra time for your journey and ensure that your car is prepared for the weather. Keep in touch with your line manager or safety representative when and where possible.

Slips trips and falls

Walking to and from car parks or across building sites during cold and icy weather requires special attention, to avoid slipping and falling. Slips and falls are some of the most frequent types of injuries to occur during the winter months.

Avoid boots or shoes with smooth soles and heels, such as plastic and leather soles and instead, wear a pair of well-insulated boots with good rubber treads. Walk slowly and with shorter steps when on icy surfaces.

Main pathways and steps should be cleared of snow and ice, as far as possible, to allow safe access to the buildings. Remove as much snow and water from your boots as you can when entering buildings, as water from the melting ice on the floor can also lead to slippery conditions.

Updates

Any specific news from your employer should be communicated effectively to all concerned.

Contact

Ensure you have contact details for the appropriate people within your organisation, in case you need to inform them that you are unable to come into work.

Parking

Where possible, park in a safe and well-lit area within a short walking distance of your workplace.

Clothing and footwear

Ensure that you have ample extra clothing and suitable footwear for ice and snow. Footwear should have grips. Heels should be avoided in deep snow and ice. See Slips and Trips above.

Travelling Home

When leaving your workplace in bad weather, make sure you have a fully charged mobile telephone, plenty of fuel, and that you have consulted relevant guidance. You should inform someone of what time you expect to arrive, taking into account possible hazards.

“If you feel that your safety, or the safety of others around you is compromised, you must inform your employer”

For anyone who would like assistance with policies or risk assessments relating to winter weather, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Telephone: 0151 545 0497, or email: [email protected]

Information on weather conditions is available from the Met Office at: http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/ or local radio broadcasts.

Public transport service updates and information on disruptions due to the snow and ice conditions are available on rail and bus websites. Traffic updates and important travel information can be found at http://www.theaa.com/

Information on workplace temperatures is available at http://www.hse.gov.uk/temperature/thermal/