February 2024

Safety on site
SIMPLE TIPS FOR WORKING IN POOR
WEATHER
Winter working – especially on exposed roofs – can be a challenge, and keeping both warm
and safe should be a priority for the nation’s contractors. As part of its annual Winter Safety
campaign, Daniel Redfern, from Marley, offers some practical steps roofers and other
outdoor workers can take to minimise risk, increase comfort and, above all, stay safe.
The opportunity to work outside during the
summer is often seen as one of the
perks of the building and roofing trade.
But working outside does bring its own
challenges. As temperatures drop and wet
conditions take over, it’s important relevant
measures are taken to minimise health and
safety risks, especially for those who spend
their days working on exposed areas such as
roofs.
Marley’s annual Winter Safety campaign aims
to emphasise how and where roofing contractors
can take better care and mitigate risk.
So, while it is not possible to totally eradicate the
impact of bad weather, there are some simple
practical tips roofers can follow to offset the
impact of outdoors working.
Risk assessment
The first step is to ensure that a full risk
assessment is undertaken around working
conditions and any potential hazards to workers
are identified.
Challenging winter weather can turn a low-risk
environment into a potentially high-risk situation.
Relatively mild temperatures and rain, or ice and
high winds, all generate issues around working at
height and must be factored in by roofing
companies asking their roofing contractors to
complete roofing projects. Sharing concerns and
pointing out potential issues in an open and
collaborative forum can ensure that the whole
team fully understands hazards and can work to
mitigate risk where it is seen.
Marley says it is vital that roofing professionals do not discard their high
vis jackets in exchange for a bulkier winter coat.
Be safe, be seen
Contractors should also make sure they are using
the correct personal protection equipment (PPE).
PPE is there for a reason, offering both practical
individual protection and a hi visibility solution
that reminds everyone on the job that they are
operating in a risky environment.
Finally, with the use of PPE essential for safety on
site, it is vital that roofing professionals do not
discard the high vis jacket in exchange for a
bulkier winter coat. It is far more effective to layer
up. This not only ensures the breadth of
movement needed by busy workers, but it will
deliver optimised warmth for the best health
protection against the cold winter months.
Helping hands
An obvious and inexpensive tip is the
recommended use of strong gloves and durable
hats to keep hands and heads protected and
warm. Snoods are also a great way to provide
extra warmth without getting in the way of getting
the job done.
Body heat is lost through exposed extremities
leading to increased fatigue as the body works
harder to keep warm in cold or wet conditions.
For jobs where hand dexterity is required,
gloves may be inconvenient, but making the
effort to keep hands and fingers well-wrapped
will minimise discomfort and help alleviate the
creeping impact of colder temperatures on
skin and bones.
Roofers often need to use machinery to resize
tiles or other roofing structure components.
Again, handling machinery that vibrates can
lead to issues such as hand-arm vibration
syndrome when the body is cold, making it more
important than ever to keep well covered.
Don’t forget feet
Unfortunately, roofers are more prone to colds,
chest infections, injuries and fatigue as a result
of working out in low temperatures or enduring
downpours.
The role of appropriate footwear should also
never be underestimated when dealing with
slippery, icy, or wet conditions. Water-resistant
and robust boots, or ice grips on soles, not only
help provide a sound footing for roofers, but they
will also ensure day-long comfort and increased
confidence when on roofscapes.
As part of its Winter Safety campaign, Marley is
giving away hundreds of branded snoods – claim
yours at www.marley.co.uk/wintersafety
Contact Marley
01283 722588
www.marley.co.uk
Marley
FEBRUARY 2024 TC 15