Health and Safety in the Autumn

Working outdoors in Autumn can create a lot of challenges for many people. It is a strange time of year as we often feel like we are in between seasons.

The mornings can be very cold and wet but by afternoon the temperature has increased significantly and suddenly you find yourself too warm in your workwear. The leaves have started falling from the trees and coupled with more rainy days, conditions underfoot can become quite hazardous. For many of us working outdoors at this time of year, we need to think carefully about our health and safety and working conditions.

Weather

Throughout Autumn the weather is quite variable. As September begins it still feels like Summer but by the end of November the clocks have changed, and the weather has taken a turn for the worse. The number of rainy days will have increased and often working conditions outdoors can be less than favourable.  It’s important that if you are working outside you are dressed appropriately so that your workwear does not hinder your performance.

Temperature

The variable temperature during this season can be a challenge. The mornings are quite cold giving a glimpse into the forthcoming winter but by afternoon the temperature has risen significantly and suddenly you are feeling uncomfortably warm in your choice of workwear. During this time layering is key as this allows you to stay warm in the cold and cool as the warmth of the day increases. Garments such as the Uniwear Classic Soft Shell Jacket are ideal as they are breathable, wind resistant and quick drying – perfect on those days where the weather is unpredictable.

Fallen Leaves

As picturesque as a blanket of fallen leaves may look, it can very quickly turn hazardous underfoot. Once the leaves become wet and start to decay, they can become a slip risk and obscure hazards from view. Consider what footwear you are wearing; does it provide you with the appropriate protection to prevent slipping or falling? What about the tread pattern? Sodden leaves can easily clog the sole of your boots, if the tread is too shallow your boots can become in effective very quickly. The Unbreakable Ankle Safety Boot conforms to the S3 safety rating and has a dual density HyGrip sole providing the wearer with optimum protection in a variety of working environments.

Visibility

Autumn signals the end of the long bright evenings and the beginning of limited daylight hours. Many people find themselves starting and finishing work when it’s dark outside. It’s vital that you are dressed appropriately so that you are visible to both motorists and the general public. Clad sell a wide range of hi-vis clothing and footwear ensuring you are safe and visible whilst performing the task in hand. Outerwear such as the Pulsar Padded Yellow Hi Vis Bomber Jacket has bands of 3M™ Scotchlite™ Reflective Tape providing the wearer with confidence that they are always visible, whatever time of day it may be.

Cold and Flu Season

This time of year is prime time for colds and viruses to become more prevalent. Encourage good occupational hygiene amongst your employees and if a staff member is unwell, advise them to stay at home to prevent illnesses from spreading. The healthier the working environment the more productive your people will be.

No matter what the season, good health and safety practice is of paramount importance.

 

Visibility

Autumn signals the end of the long bright evenings and the beginning of limited daylight hours. Many people find themselves starting and finishing work when it’s dark outside. It’s vital that you are dressed appropriately so that you are visible to both motorists and the general public. Clad sell a wide range of hi-vis clothing and footwear ensuring you are safe and visible whilst performing the task in hand. Outerwear such as the Pulsar Padded Yellow Hi Vis Bomber Jacket has bands of 3M™ Scotchlite™ Reflective Tape providing the wearer with confidence that they are always visible, whatever time of day it may be.

Cold and Flu Season

This time of year is prime time for colds and viruses to become more prevalent. Encourage good occupational hygiene amongst your employees and if a staff member is unwell, advise them to stay at home to prevent illnesses from spreading. The healthier the working environment the more productive your people will be.

No matter what the season, good health and safety practice is of paramount importance.