Winter Construction Jobsite Safety Tips to Save a Life

Being prepared to work in the construction field requires a constant focus on safety. Winter temperatures and slippery ice make construction all the more dangerous. Before performing any task, whether it’s taking down holiday decorations or installing scaffolding for a large job, utilizing safety tips could save your life during winter construction projects.

Dealing with Snow and Ice During Winter Construction

A major concern during winter construction projects is how to manage and maintain snow and ice. Many fatal incidents are reported yearly due to slips and falls during winter months. Make sure to remove snow and ice from rooftops while wearing proper safety equipment. A harness system is safest to use during any roofing project. Werner Fall Protection Bucket Kits come with everything you need to provide roofing safety in one package. The kit includes a reusable roofing anchor, litefit safety harness, durable poly blend lifeline rope, and a rope adjuster with an attached lanyard with a 3 ft. shock absorbing capability. Additionally, Werner offers safety kits for construction and maintenance projects. These kits include a litefit safety harness, a snap hook style 6-foot shock absorbing lanyard, and a 6-foot cross arm strap. For any project that could potentially threaten safety due to risk of slips and falls, the proper fall equipment provided by Werner fall protection kits can prevent it!

Ladder and Scaffolding Use During the Winter Construction

There may come a time when you will need to use your ladder outside for a project or job during the winter months. Preparing yourself beforehand is imperative to reducing the risk for accidents during cold and snowy weather. Using common sense and considering the right preparation for a job can go a long way when it comes to winter construction safety.

For any job requiring the use of a ladder, remember to choose one that suits all of your needs and offers the proper capabilities. For example, if you need to reach a structure 7 feet in height, use a 10-foot extension ladder that has a weight bearing capacity within your weight and weight of your tools and equipment combined.

If your ladder or scaffolding equipment is located outside, make sure to remove all ice and snow before the next use. Make sure to inspect all equipment thoroughly for potential damage caused by freezing temperature or ice. Never use damaged machinery during winter construction projects, or ever. Before ascending the ladder, make sure to place it on an even surface that’s clear of any snow and ice to avoid a slip during use. Also, remove any snow or ice located on the base of the ladder so that potential slipping doesn’t occur.

Many winter construction ladder incidents happen because individuals try to clean snow from roofs while standing on their ladders. Make sure to dismount your ladder before utilizing a snow rake to remove snow from roofs, or rake from the floor level to avoid slips completely.

Health and Cold Temperatures During Winter Construction

Remember to never work in freezing temperatures. Getting your work done is important, but your health and safety should be your number one concern. If there is too much ice and snow to perform your job safely and effectively, it is best to choose a day that is a more suitable environment. Don’t put your employees or your own life in jeopardy. Additionally, if you decide to work in colder conditions, prepare your body by ingesting enough water to avoid dehydration. Wear proper weather related garments to prevent frostbite and exhaustion due to overexposure.

Purchasing a Ladder or Equipment for Winter Construction

Need some new equipment to make your winter construction jobs safer?  Werner ladders, roofing safety kits, scaffolding, lifting equipment, job site storage, vehicle accessories, and more can be found at our online store, Industrial Ladder.com. All of our products are shipped right to your door as soon as you order them. If you have any questions about our services or products, we would love to hear from you! Give us a call today at 1-800-833-0800 or contact us on our website to hear from us shortly. And remember, make sure to utilize your safety knowledge while performing any construction task this winter!  

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