REDUCED WINTER DAYLIGHT

• Adjust schedules to start work at first light (or as soon as the site opens) to maximise daylight hours
• Be aware of fading light and ensure there’s enough time left to collect all tools and equipment/get to ground safely before light goes
• Prioritise daylight-dependent tasks and start the day with the most intricate or safety-critical tasks 

FREEZING CONDITIONS

• Take regular breaks and consume warm food and drinks throughout the day to keep body temperature up. 
• Conduct regular risk assessments to keep on top of evolving safety risks.
• Consider adjusting work schedules. Frost and ice will often present in the early hours, so when extreme cold weather is forecasts, it may help to start a little later in the morning once the frost has melted.
• Gear up and wear insulated clothing, headgear for extra warmth (such as liners for hard-hats), safety boots and winter gloves. 

STRONG WINDS

• Avoid working at height in winds over a certain speed (e.g.) 20mph
• Secure all tools and materials before starting work when high winds are predicted to reduce risk of injury.  
• Continually monitor weather forecasts/update risk assessments to account for changing weather conditions and evolving safety risks associated with high winds. 

HEAVY RAINFALL

• More regular risk assessments – with intensity and duration of rainfall often unpredictable, during wet weather periods, it’s important to carry out more regular risk assessments. 
• Waterproof clothing – (may seem obvious, but stats show 45% aren’t) – essential to keep workers dry and minimise the risk of hypothermia, for example.  
• Monitor slip hazards – after periods of heavy rainfall it’s important to keep a close eye on potential slip hazards (ladder rungs and roof surfaces e.g.) 
• Monitor weather conditions and adjust work schedules. Be aware of the forecast and adjust work times and work practices in line with the expected rainfall.
   
  
   

DENSE FOG

• Ensure team members inform others about where they are working and when visibility is somewhat restricted due to fog.
• Avoid working in conditions when visibility is particularly poor (e.g. when visibility is below 50 metres). 
• Wear high vis clothing so others can see you more clearly/are aware of where you’re working and when.