Health & safety bulletin
Weather warning
9th January 2008
It is that time of year again when we have severe weather warnings issued regularly across the country.
Today the met office are issuing a severe gales warning for Scotland, with wind speeds expected to reach 51mph and gusts of 74mph in some regions.
In these winds it is it is inevitable that we will receive a large increase in call out’s relating to wind damaged signware (canopies in particular).
It is important to remember to always check the wind speed before working at height. Complete a work at height checklist and use your anemometer – do not work off a tower or sherpascopic steps above 17mph wind speed (24mph for MEWPs). If necessary, close the site, and advise the site to call the fire brigade.
It is also likely that we will start to get snow and icy conditions. Snow reduces visibility when driving, and increases stopping distances. Icy conditions substantially increases stopping distances (by up to ten times) and can also be very difficult to see. When driving in these conditions, slow down, always leave a larger gap between yourself and the vehicle in front, use your headlights, and avoid sudden braking, acceleration or steering.
When working on site in snow or icy conditions, be particularly careful when barriering off the work area. Be aware that vehicles entering the site may be unable to see clearly, and may be unable to manoeuvre or stop due to ice. Use your vehicle as a barrier if possible.
Do not work on the site if the visibility is so low that oncoming vehicles cannot see the barriers clearly or if the area is too slippery to walk on.
In summary:
a) Drive safely, observing speed limits and being vigilant in looking for icy roads.
b) Beware of ground conditions affected by rain, snow or frost.
c) NEVER work at height without first completing a Working at Height checklist.
d) ALWAYS check wind speed with the anemometer provided, and do not work at height if it is above 17mph (24mph for MEWP).
e) Do not work on icy or slippery working platforms.
f) Beware of items falling from the canopy in high winds – if in doubt, close the site.
g) If dangerous items cannot be rectified because of the wind speed and there is still a danger, encourage the site to call the Fire Brigade.
h) Do not leave panels or other items on forecourts where there is a chance of them blowing around and hitting people.
h) Do not enter any excavation, manhole or tunnel that could become slippery or be at risk of flooding.
i) Be aware of reduced visibility and increased stopping distances of vehicles entering the site.