Outdoor Working
Work activities can often require people to be outdoors for some or all of their day. Extremes of weather can make working outside difficult and can increase the risk of accidents.
Importance.
Working in intense cold can slow you down physically and mentally. Reactions are slower and decision making becomes harder. Existing risks can be made worse by hot, cold, windy or wet conditions. Skin damage is caused by ultraviolet (UV) rays in sunlight. A number of health problems are known to be made worse by working in cold and wet environments, including hand-arm vibration syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, asthma and bronchitis.
Regulations.
The Health and Safety at Work Act requires employees to take reasonable care for themselves and others. The regulations also require a safe working environment and this includes dealing with the weather.
Guidance.
- If possible arrange a work rota system so that regular periods are spent out of the cold and wind.
- Water proof clothing which allows adequate warm garments to be worn underneath should be worn.
- Work in water e.g. trench or where wading is necessary, even good boots and socks allow the feet to become numb. Do not stand in water for too long and change socks for a dry warm pair at intervals.
- Hypothermia occurs when you can’t maintain your body temperature at about 37˚C. Shivering is the first sign in some people, not all. If you begin to feel cold ‘deep inside’, take a break in a warm place.
- Have a warm drink and a snack on your break to help your body warm up.
- Chilblains, frostbite and skin damage are extremely painful and disabling so prevention is better than cure. Warm gloves and socks are essential but if you can feel your extremities getting too cold, change to a warm dry pair. Protective creams are available for face and wrists etc to replace the natural oils dried up by the cold and prevent cracking and peeling.
- Wind can add a chill factor and the added affect makes it seem colder, extra protection is required.
- Sheeting over scaffolding, tents, can help shelter the site and workers from wind and rain.
- Have somewhere warm and dry to take refreshments and dry clothes.
- Long sleeved vests, long-johns, thermal underwear, etc can all help to keep you warm and healthy.
- Sunburn is common, painful, but easily avoided. Use sun block lotion and keep skin covered.
- Heat exhaustion is the combination of high temperature, exertion and loss of fluid and salt through sweating. It can be dangerous if not recognised and lead to fainting, cramp and nausea. Frequent rests and plenty of cool, but not iced, drinks are necessary.
Questions.
- Why does working outside increase the risk of accidents?
- What precautions should you take in hot weather?
Summary.
Extreme weather conditions increase the risk of accidents and health problems for the site workforce. Suitable precautions should be taken in hot, cold, wet and windy conditions.
