Construction workers are exposed to the full range of UK weather conditions throughout the year. Extreme heat, cold, wind, and rain affect both health and productivity. Employers have a legal duty to provide adequate welfare facilities that protect workers from the effects of extreme weather. This talk covers the welfare provisions needed during hot summers and cold winters on UK construction sites.
Key Hazards
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke during prolonged work in hot conditions
Hypothermia and cold stress from working outdoors in freezing weather
Dehydration from insufficient drinking water provision during hot weather
Wet clothing causing rapid body heat loss when drying facilities are unavailable
Control Measures
Provide heated welfare facilities with adequate seating and table space for all workers on site.
Ensure clean drinking water is freely available at multiple points around the site at all times.
Provide additional cold drinking water, ice, and electrolyte drinks during hot weather periods.
Supply drying rooms with adequate heating and hanging space for wet clothing during winter.
Schedule frequent rest breaks in welfare facilities during extreme heat or cold conditions.
Issue sun cream with minimum SPF 30 and encourage its use during summer months.
Provide warm welfare facilities close to the work area for remote or large site locations.
Monitor workers for signs of heat exhaustion, hypothermia, or cold stress during extreme weather.
Brief operatives on recognising the symptoms of heat illness and cold stress in themselves and colleagues.
Remember
Take regular rest breaks in welfare facilities during extreme heat or cold weather
Drink water frequently throughout the shift and do not wait until you feel thirsty
Change out of wet clothing as soon as possible and use the drying room provided
Watch your colleagues for signs of heat illness or hypothermia and report concerns immediately
Employers must provide heated welfare, drinking water, and drying facilities in all weather
Applicable Legislation: Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 · CDM 2015 · MHSWR 1999 · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974