Keeping your job site safe is imperative no matter what time of the year, but it’s especially crucial as the weather gets cooler and it starts to rain. Rain, particularly on construction sites, is a big hazard that is pretty unavoidable (especially in the UK), so learning how to work with it is the key to success.
There are a few different tips and tricks you should be implementing to ensure the safety of your workers and the public on construction sites in rainy weather. From proper equipment to adequate training and everything in between, this is everything you need to know to keep yourself and others safe on your job sites.
Non-Slip Surfaces Are Key
When it comes to safety in the rain, one of the most important things you can do is ensure you have adequate non-slip surfaces in place. Slips and falls are a huge hazard on job sites at any time of the year, but they become even more dangerous in the rain.
You want to make sure that you have the right non-slip solutions in place when on your construction site to mitigate any safety concerns. GRP gratings are a great solution that can help minimise slips even in rainy weather. Whether it’s for a pedestrian walkway on the outskirts of your site or you want to use them to ensure the safety of your works within your construction site, they’re the perfect solution for areas with high traffic that need to remain non-slip at all times.
Utilise Proper Equipment
You need to ensure that every single one of your employees has the rightequipment and clothing to remain safe during wet weather. This includes waterproof clothing to protect from the cold, non-slip, protective boots and even waterproof gloves to help your employees keep a secure grip on tools and equipment in the rain.
The safety of employees on construction sites really is everyone’s responsibility, and ensuring your employees have access to all the correct gear is crucial to ensure safety at all times, especially in the wet weather.
Keep A Close Eye On The Weather
Whilst you can’t call off work every single time there is light rain, keeping a close eye on the weather is crucial to ensure the safety of individuals on construction sites. You want to ensure you keep an eye on how much rainfall is expected, and if it’s particularly heavy or if a thunderstorm is on the way, you may need to consider stopping work until it subsides.
Whilst no one wants to delay a job, ensuring the weather is safe to work in is far more important than meeting a deadline.
Invest In Proper Training
A properly trained team is a safe team, especially when it comes to best practices in the rain. You want to regularly train your workers on the best safety measures for wet weather work and ensure everyone is informed on the best practices regarding equipment and clothing.
Regular training of your team ensures everybody knows exactly how to prepare for work in the rain, and it ensures they are always prepared for changing weather conditions.
Properly Secure Loose Items
Rain and wind tend to go hand in hand, so ensure that any loose items are correctly secured and protected from the elements. You will also need to ensure that you have the correct shelter for any tools or equipment that can’t get wet.
Be Extra Careful With Electrics
It’s no secret that water and electricity don’t mix, so you really need to ensure that any electrical equipment that may be damaged by water is safe and protected from the rain.
You also need to ensure that your electrics are regularly inspected, tested, and safe all year round, especially after rainy weather.
Move Carefully
One of the most important things to do is to move carefully, especially in the rain. Don’t rush through construction sites in the wet weather, and ensure you’re avoiding puddles or any possible tripping hazards.
A Safe Work Environment Is A Good Work Environment
When it comes to wet weather, safety really is the number one thing you need to be considering. By utilising these tips and tricks, you can ensure your team and the public are safe on-site, no matter the weather.
