Learn to Prevent the Three Major Winter Weather Hazards on Construction Sites

It's no secret that construction sites are dangerous. But with winter weather hazards such as snow and ice, those dangers are compounded, resulting in a dramatic increase in accidents and injuries. Fortunately, these accidents and injuries are preventable if you know what to look for. Be sure to inspect your site daily during the colder months by taking a walk-through to check for these three common hazards:

1. Slippery traffic or work areas. Ice can accumulate on many surfaces such as walkways, stairs, scaffolds, ladders, and work platforms. Be sure to check these areas and remove snow/ice and properly salt or take steps to rope off areas that cannot be made safe.
2. Icicles. As temperatures begin to warm, thawing icicles can fall presenting a hazard to workers or other pedestrians below. Remove icicles, if possible from a safe place, or rope off the area until they no longer present a hazard.
3. Snow piles. While snow removal is imperative for work to resume on many construction sites, it is crucial for snow piles not to be so high as to obstruct the view of those working in the area. Moving snow to an area where workers are not likely to be conducting duties can prevent accidents and injuries.