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The colder winter months bring unique challenges to contractors trying to continue their construction projects. Snow, wind, and ice can make jobsites treacherous for workers, damage equipment, and slow progress. However, taking a break all winter typically isn’t an option. With some planning and preparation, contractors can continue most of their project work throughout the winter months.
Our focus this month is to encourage workers to be particularly mindful of the added exposures that exist during the colder weather. Additional considerations for owners and project managers include:
- Assess road maintenance into and around the jobsite for potholes and uneven surfaces which should be addressed before the ground is frozen.
- Ensure engine fluids and hydraulic oils in your equipment are rated for cold weather. Replace them if necessary.
- Consider temporary site structures or site covers to enclose and protect your project and equipment.
- Keep snow and watershed away from all foundations to prevent sleet, ice, freezing, and thawing from contributing to foundation cracks.
- Remove snow with appropriate equipment. Snow should be plowed away from the building project to avoid flooding during a thaw.
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Maintenance of fuel-burning heaters, equipment and vehicles is crucial. Vehicle exhaust systems need to be regularly inspected for leaks or other damage.
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Monitors and audible alarm systems should be in place wherever CO is a potential hazard. Ventilate areas where fuel-burning equipment is used. Use portable CO detectors as necessary.
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Finally, make sure your company’s fleet of work trucks and vehicles is equipped with winter weather emergency kits. Your kits should include a shovel, ice scraper and brush, sleeping bag, water, non-perishable snacks like protein bars, tow straps, emergency flares, and a backup battery for your cell phone. It’s also a good idea to have some cat litter, salt, or sand to help with traction in case you get stuck.
A Spanish version is also available by clicking this SPANISH SAFETY TOPIC OF THE MONTH link.
If you haven't committed to holding monthly safety meetings yet - it's never too late to get started! If this month's topic doesn't appeal to you, click here to see last month's email, or use your Portal account to access prior issues!
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