How to maintain good working conditions when working in bad weather

Bad weather during the winter months can offer unique challenges to those who work outside on a daily basis. Exposure to cold conditions can impact health and overall productivity, so it’s important to take extra precautions to retain workplace safety.

Ensuring the safety of workers in adverse weather conditions is a legal obligation and a critical component of an effective business strategy. By implementing such safety measures, businesses can mitigate risks and reduce injury-related costs, which averaged over $41,000 per incident in 2023.

Bad weather causes hundreds of fatalities and injuries across various industries, illustrating the urgent need for robust safety measures during bad weather conditions​. In this article, we’ll be discussing how to maintain good working conditions when working in difficult conditions. 

Protective workwear

The right clothing and gear are essential to protect against the elements of poor weather. This includes waterproof and insulated garments to defend against the rain and cold, and breathable fabrics for warmer climates to prevent heat stress. 

Accessories from suppliers like RS Americas, including high-visibility vests and weather-appropriate footwear with enhanced grip, can mitigate the risks associated with reduced visibility and slippery surfaces. 

Each piece of clothing should comply with the safety standards relevant to the specific job and weather conditions. Always ensure to protect your head and neck, too, as these can lose heat rapidly when exposed to the cold. 

Preventing slips, falls, and other injuries

Slips, trips, and falls are some of the most common causes of workplace injuries, especially in bad weather. To combat this, employers should ensure that all walking surfaces are well-maintained and promptly cleared of ice, snow, and debris. 

Using salt or sand can improve traction significantly. Regular safety training sessions can educate employees on the correct procedures for walking on slippery surfaces and the importance of reporting potential hazards. 

Ensuring that all areas are adequately lit is also crucial, as poor lighting can increase the risk of accidents​.

Ensuring space to get warm and dry

Providing a space where workers can get warm and dry is crucial for their safety and well-being, particularly in cold and wet conditions. Facilities should be equipped with heating to maintain a comfortable temperature and allow for drying wet clothing and equipment.

Break areas should be insulated against the cold and protected from the weather, ensuring that employees have a place to recover from the outdoor conditions. This not only helps prevent hypothermia and frostbite but also boosts morale and productivity by showing care for employee welfare.

Having employees take a 10-minute break to warm up every couple of hours can relieve any cold-related stressors in the body.