The Do’s and Don’ts of Winter Construction Work

Whether they’re doing important repairs in the middle of a blizzard or working on a new construction during dangerously low temperatures, construction workers need to wear the proper protective clothing during the winter.

Take these steps during the winter for safe construction. At the same time, it may be worth reviewing the following tips no matter what the current weather is, in case conditions take a turn for the worst.

Here are some basic do’s and don’ts brought to you by L&A Safety for construction professionals to follow during the colder months.

Do: Be cautious around downed power lines
The Occupational Safety & Health Administration mentions this in a list of winter weather guidelines, noting that snowy environments could make live wires even more dangerous than they are normally.

Don’t: Use equipment unsuitable for the weather
The tools workers employ in winter conditions need to be specifically approved for seasonal use. Assuming that a tool fit for warm weather use is equally viable in cold or snow could lead to a possible hazard, as can using any of this equipment incorrectly.

Do: Wear insulated gear
From head to toe, workers can look for apparel that retains body heat and keeps them comfortable. Insulated Gloves, scarves, socks, and coveralls with thermal protection can all be useful, as can boots and helmets with the right insulation.

Don’t: Work too long without breaks
Even with protection, workers shouldn’t spend too much time exposed to the elements. Managers should take precautions to keep workers warm and in good health, such as breaks in a well-heated space to recover.

Do: Keep walkways safe
Move slowly when surfaces are icy, and wear boots with treads to reduce the chance of losing a grip and falling. Sanding or salting slippery patches also helps with traction and get make it easier for crews to make it through high-traffic areas.

Check out the L&A Safety website  for all sorts of occupational safety products.

Protecting the hands of construction workers

Protecting the hands of construction workers is not an easy task. They need gloves that fit like a second skin while also offering protection from the sharp edges of building materials.

Today’s gloves are designed to protect workers from a variety of threats: cuts from the rough and sharp edges of building materials such as glass, brick and roofing; the potential poisonous effects of chemicals; chemical burns; and the threat of injury from the many materials and tools handled in the course of a day’s work.

The causes of hand injuries on construction sites are many. However, the number one factor is performing tasks within the protection of gloves. Other factors include performing an unfamiliar task, lack of training, distractions and being fatigued.

There is always room for improvement in hand protection, but recently new fibre technology has been developed that provides cut resistance with dexterity.

Researchers are able to meet the comfort and flexibility needs of workers with gloves that have the required cut resistance combined with:

- Lighter coatings

- Touch sensitivity

- Greater dexterity

With these new glove models, workers no longer have a reason to remove gloves when performing tasks.

Whenever gloves are being selected, these three key factors need to be discussed…

- Performance properties. The ability of the glove to provide protection against specific hazards

- Durability. The gloves retention of performance properties with use

- Human factors. The gloves fit, function and comfort

It is so important for everyone in the construction industry to find the right glove and wear it. Your hands will thank you later, remember you only have one pair!

L&A Safety is your one-stop shop for all your PPE and clothing! Contact us today or visit our branches in Milnerton, Vredenburg or Robertson.