As the clocks go back and we gain an extra hour, the days start to feel shorter, and the nights draw in earlier. This shift marks the start of the colder months, bringing darker mornings and evenings. For lone workers, these changes can present new challenges, from increased risks in poorly lit environments to dealing with winter weather hazards. Staying safe during this time is crucial, and preparation is key. Here are some tips to help lone workers stay safe as the winter season sets in.
- Adjust to the Change in Light
With daylight hours shrinking, lone workers are more likely to find themselves starting or finishing their shifts in darkness. It’s important to adapt routines to the changing light to ensure safety.
Tips:
- Wear high-visibility clothing: This ensures you’re visible to others, whether you’re working on a building site, near traffic, or simply walking to and from your vehicle.
- Use appropriate lighting: Carry a torch or headlamp to illuminate dark areas. Ensure your worksite or vehicle is equipped with sufficient lighting.
- Be mindful of visibility on the road: If driving, adjust your commute to account for reduced visibility, and check that your vehicle’s lights are working properly.
- Check and Prepare Your Equipment
Winter months can affect your work equipment, particularly if it’s exposed to cold and wet conditions. Ensuring that all safety gear and tools are in good working order can prevent accidents and improve safety.
Tips:
- Regularly inspect your safety devices: If you’re using lone worker devices to stay connected, ensure they’re charged and functioning properly. If you are experiencing issues with your devices, please get in touch with us.
- Test your lone worker app and safety devices regularly: Make sure they’re fully operational, as staying connected in case of an emergency is vital during the colder months.
- Stock your vehicle with winter essentials: In case of delays or emergencies, having a kit that includes a blanket, torch, spare batteries, and emergency food and water is a wise precaution.
- Prepare for Weather Hazards
Winter brings cold, snow, ice, and rain – all of which can increase the risk of slips, trips, and falls. It’s important to stay aware of the weather and be prepared for sudden changes in conditions.
Tips:
- Watch out for icy surfaces: Whether walking to your vehicle or working outdoors, icy pavements and roads can be hazardous. Wear sturdy, slip-resistant footwear, and take extra care when moving around in poor weather.
- Dress appropriately for the weather: Layering is key to staying warm, but ensure that your clothing doesn’t restrict your movement or compromise your safety. Waterproof outer layers can help keep you dry, while thermal layers will keep you warm.
- Stay updated on weather forecasts: Always check the forecast before heading out and plan for potential delays if poor weather is expected.
- Keep Communication Open
With the darker evenings and weather hazards, lone workers may find it harder to call for help or report their location. Keeping communication lines open with your team, supervisor or emergency contacts is essential.
Tips:
- Get a lone worker device if you or your staff work alone: If you’re regularly working on your own or in isolated areas, investing in a lone worker safety device is a must. These devices can provide an instant connection to a monitoring station who can alert emergency services or your safety team, ensuring that help is always within reach.
- Use regular check-ins or our automatic Amber Alerts to stay in touch: Regularly scheduled check-ins with your team are a simple but effective way to stay connected. Keeping communication lines open is vital for ensuring safety during the darker, colder months. Having the right systems in place means help is always close by.
- Stay Aware of Fatigue
The clocks going back and shorter daylight hours can disrupt your body’s natural rhythm, leading to feelings of fatigue. This can affect concentration and reaction times, increasing the risk of accidents.
Tips:
- Plan rest breaks: Take regular breaks to stay alert, especially if your work involves driving or operating machinery. Fatigue can slow reaction times, making accidents more likely.
- Maintain a consistent sleep routine: Despite the changes in daylight, try to stick to a regular sleep schedule to help your body adjust.
- Stay hydrated and eat well: Keeping your energy levels up is important during the winter months. Carry water and healthy snacks to keep you going throughout the day.
The transition to winter brings its own set of challenges for lone workers, but with the right preparation, you can stay safe and secure. By being aware of the risks posed by darker nights and cold weather, and by using the right safety tools and techniques, you can ensure that you’re ready for whatever winter throws your way. Make sure to use your lone worker safety devices, check in regularly with your team, and stay prepared for sudden changes in conditions. Stay safe out there this winter!