How to Handle Concrete and Construction Work in the Cold Weather
Late fall and early winter can be dangerous to work on a construction site without the right precautions.
We are now in the midst of November, and it is starting to get nippy outside. You may even encounter smaller amounts of snow. Even if the snow does not stick, it is a sign that even colder weather is on the way. Late fall and early winter can be dangerous to work on a construction site where all employees try to avoid slipping and falling on the slick surfaces. Numerous safety risks are associated with concrete and construction work at any time of the year, but with winter on the way, they become even more dangerous. Read on to learn how you can handle construction work in the cold weather!
Pay Attention to the Weather
For one thing, it is important to track down the weather forecast. Maryland, in particular, is known for its unpredictable weather patterns. Unexpected precipitation can lead to all types of safety risks like injuries, accidents, and even sinkholes and voids, depending on how bad the snow, rain, sleet, wind, and ice get. Frostbite can set in very quickly, so it becomes more important to deal with the situation with caution.
Make Sure All Workers Bundle Up
Along the same lines, ensure all your concrete workers have the proper PPE they require. This will go beyond equipping steel-toed boots, hard hats, and reflective vets. Multiple different clothing layers will help reduce the chances of hypothermia and frostbite from affecting all of your workers too much. Although it may be overlooked during your training sessions, make sure all workers can keep their necks, hands, mouths, and faces are protected adequately. Fog-proof goggles and glasses should definitely be worn, considering how almost all workers will need some face covering as mandated to slow down the transmission of any diseases, ensuring visibility is important, especially with how dark it gets in the day now.
Get Your Job Site Ready
Keeping your job site ready for your crew to come out and work is also a necessity. First of all, debris and any stray tools might cause issues even on an average day. That said, snow and freezing rain also can lead to tripping, slipping, and falling hazards. Stepstools, ladders, and scaffolds call for precautions, but with winter approaching, make sure to double down on these measures to help minimize possible safety risks.
Check to See All Vehicles and Machinery Are Ready to Operate
Likewise, you are going to want to take time to inspect all of your vehicles and machines the work crew uses. Hydraulic fluids and engine oils must be winterized so they will not freeze over. Antifreeze oil could also prevent moisture infiltration from causing pneumatic and hoses to fail due to the cold weather.
Revitalize Your Business with G&M Services
G&M Services is proud of our employees and the dedication they have for safety in the workplace. We reward our employees for displaying positive safety practices. We incorporate weekly and monthly discussions and meetings to ensure that all involved know how to handle equipment and potentially risky situations during a project. We offer services in the way of concrete drilling and sawing, concrete scanning, and Firestop. To get started with us, call today at 410-787-8828 or visit our contact page. Follow the official company page today on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
