Winter can be a dangerous time in the workplace. From slippery corridors to poorly lit pathways, new hazards emerge as the days become colder and darker. Many of these dangers apply to traditional office settings, but other industries also have their fair share of pitfalls.
Whether you work in a shop, an office or a warehouse, it’s important to be extra vigilant about health and safety at this time of year. Here are some of the most common winter dangers, and the steps you can take to avoid any slip-ups (literally and figuratively!)
What are my responsibilities?
As with any workplace hazard, winter dangers fall under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. This makes it your duty to reduce workplace risks as far as is “reasonably practicable”, both to your employees and to the general public.
On top of this, The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 require every employer to carry out a risk assessment. This should identify any workplace hazards and outline the steps you will take to mitigate them. Updating your risk assessment is recommended if working conditions change significantly, and this could include the onset of winter.
What are the most common risks?
Winter risks are usually environmental. Harsher weather and darker nights can create a number of hazards that are not present during the rest of the year:
- Ice, rain and fallen leaves can create a slipping hazard on steps and pathways.
- Shop floors can become slippery as customers track rain and leaves into stores.
- Employees may be arriving and leaving work in the dark, increasing the risk of trips and falls in outdoor areas.
- Poor visibility can increase the risk of collisions in car parks and entrance ways.
- Delivery drivers may be driving in wet or icy conditions, making accidents more likely.
- The wires from portable heaters can create a tripping hazard in offices.
- Warehouses may be colder than usual, putting employees at risk of illness.
How can I avoid these risks?
As is the case with most risks, careful planning is the key to mitigating winter hazards. Try to anticipate as many of these dangers as possible, then take the necessary precautions to eliminate them:
- Check weather forecasts frequently and grit outdoor areas if cold temperatures are predicted.
- Put up signs to dissuade employees from taking shortcuts across grass.
- Monitor entranceways and mop them frequently on rainy days.
- Put up wet floor signs to warn employees and the public of slipping hazards.
- Install extra lighting in car parks and use signs to separate pedestrians and cars.
- Lengthen delivery windows so that drivers don’t have to rush in treacherous conditions.
- Ensure that wires from portable heaters are not covering thoroughfares, tucking them behind desks if possible.
- Provide warm clothing for employees in warehouses or outdoor spaces.
What does the law say about workplace temperatures?
No matter where you work, colder outdoor temperatures will often translate into colder indoor temperatures. Employers are often unsure about their obligations when it comes to working temperatures, especially as the law in this area is somewhat unclear.
The HSE’s Approved Code of Practice states that workplace temperatures shouldn’t fall below 16°C (or 13°C if employees are performing physical tasks). However, this is a guideline rather than a legal requirement. Your only legal duty is to maintain a “reasonable” workplace temperature. What constitutes reasonable is up to you.
In short, it depends on your staff. Rather than aiming for a particular temperature, ask your employees if they are feeling cold. If they say yes, consider providing portable heaters or turning up the central heating. If employees have different preferences, try to find a compromise that keeps everyone comfortable.
Don’t get left out in the cold
Winter may bring extra hazards, but that doesn’t have to translate into extra accidents. With a bit of planning, you and your employees can make it through to spring unscathed. If you have any questions about winter safety, we are always happy to help. Have a great New Year, and we’ll see you in 2024!
