Developing a winter weather plan for construction sites is essential to ensure the safety of our project teams and the successful continuation of project activities during cold and potentially hazardous conditions.
Here are the steps our Miller Valentine construction teams are taking as we head into the winter months:
Risk Assessment & Compliance
- Identify potential winter weather-related risks, such as freezing temperatures, snow, ice, and strong winds (is there a winter heating plan in place / what heat sources will be utilized).
- Evaluate how these risks can affect the construction site, workers, and equipment.
- Familiarize yourself with local, state, and federal regulations related to winter construction safety.
- Ensure compliance with relevant safety standards, including those from OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration).
- Conduct a site-specific evaluation to identify areas vulnerable to winter weather hazards, such as icy patches, areas prone to drifting snow (egress doors), or locations where water may accumulate (walkways).
- Develop a clear and concise emergency response plan for various winter weather scenarios, including accidents, extreme cold, or unexpected snowfall (snow loads on roofs or obstructed vents).
- Train all construction site personnel on the potential risks of winter weather conditions and how to stay safe.
- Inspect and maintain construction equipment and tools to ensure they are ready for winter use.
- Provide guidance on proper cold-weather clothing, personal protective equipment (PPE), and procedures for working in cold conditions.
- Ensure all workers understand their roles in case of emergencies.
Weather Monitoring & Flexible Scheduling
- Continuously monitor weather forecasts to anticipate extreme conditions.
- Establish a communication system for disseminating weather-related updates to the construction team.
- Develop a flexible construction schedule that can accommodate delays caused by winter weather.
- Plan for shorter workdays and provide frequent breaks in extremely cold conditions.
Communication & Record Keeping
- Establish a clear communication protocol for relaying information about delays, hazards, and emergency situations.
- Ensure that all workers have access to communication devices or radios.
- Maintain thorough records of all winter-related activities, incidents, and emergency responses.
- After the winter season, conduct a review to identify lessons learned and areas for improvement in the winter weather plan.
By following these steps and regularly updating our winter weather plans as needed, the Miller Valentine Teams are minimizing risks and ensuring the safety and productivity of their jobsites during adverse winter conditions.
