Wintertime is associated with a period when all works performed on construction sites require additional planning and special preparation. Also, you can prefer coarse sand that is is the primary ingredient in forming the base underneath driveways, patios, and block paving. This is due to the requirements arising from the technology used, working methods, location, and the need to guarantee workers the conditions that will allow them to carry out the planned tasks.
Snow, frost, ice, or hoarfrost create additional hazards to workers and operating machinery, equipment, and tools in operation. Their elimination or limitation requires additional knowledge to increase the effectiveness of their actions, and this knowledge can be gained thanks to scaffold training NYC.
What hazards does the winter period pose?
For many people, winter seems to be a wonderful time of the year that is full of miracles. However, for those working in the construction industry, it is a time of increased risks and more difficult working conditions. Winter does not only slow down the process but is also connected to numerous hazards such as:
- As per scaffolders Cambridge snow and ice make the ground, platforms, and scaffolds slippery and increase the risk of falling down. On top of this come the icicles that might be falling from the height.
- frostbite, and trench foot are very common problems when the works are performed outside or inside at low temperatures with a lack of heating.
- Dehydration is more common during the winter. Since people don’t feel as thirsty when the temperature goes down, many forget to drink enough liquids.
- Cold-related Illnesses and COVID appear to be striking with the new power during the winter months when the immune system is weak. And this is why infectious disease prevention in the workplace.
- Carbon monoxide poisoning is more likely to happen in winter when people start to use gas furnaces and heaters to control the temperature at the worksite.
How to minimize the risks at the construction sites during winter?
Even though working during the cold months is more difficult, it is not impossible. The only key to success here is to follow the simple steps and be extra precautious.
For the winter period, you should plan the work that is easiest to perform. In winter, open spaces used for preparing mortar should be protected with so-called “greenhouses”. In the event of ice, scaffolding, roads, and driveways must be covered with sand or gravel and be systematically cleared of snow. Persons responsible for maintaining the proper and safe condition of these facilities shall be designated. Snow and ice must be systematically removed from the construction and working platforms, ladders, and other equipment.
Prior to the onset of the winter period, all employees must be provided with warm clothing and footwear, as well as other types of equipment, according to the requirements. During the winter period, the employer shall provide all employees with hot food and hot drinks in sufficient quantities. The auxiliary social-residential facilities shall be equipped with clothes dryers. Workplaces remote from the construction site must be equipped with rooms for heating.
It is also necessary to systematically and thoroughly control the work performed.
By following these simple instructions, the employees will stay safe and healthy.
