Dear Team,
Can you please ensure that you read this email in full and forward to any members of staff that are not included but may need to be notified.
Yellow Warnings issued for strong winds
Please be advised of weather warnings that have been issued – details below.
Met Office Yellow warnings for wind have been issued, strong winds and heavy rain for many in the south of the UK.
This will run throughout Thursday 23rd October, therefore we need to ensure that all of our temporary works are assessed first thing Friday 24th October.
Please see below areas of concern:
Scaffold
- Can you please ensure all scaffolds are secure for tonight and checked thoroughly before next use.
Work at Height
- Keep in mind the “sail” effect and plan any works accordingly.
Sites
- Materials stored safely and securely.
- Site perimeter checked ensuring all Heras fencing is secure, feet are in place, double clipped, braced where necessary etc.
- Check temporary structures are stable and able to withstand bad weather conditions
Vehicle Preparation
- A well-prepared vehicle for adverse weather is important.
- Check your tyres are correctly inflated and to manufacturers guidance.
- Clear your windscreen fully and ensure that there are no observed damages and make sure you have adequate levels of screen wash.
- Make sure your lights are clean and work as they should and report any defects immediately.
- Do a full vehicle check and record findings accordingly.
Driving
Slow down, watch for deep surface water/ice and consider the increased stopping / braking distances. 10 times the distance than normal driving is recommended.
Be mindful loading materials in the back of vans and ensure loads are stored securely as they will move when sever braking is undertaken.
Drivers are to be aware of not only the sun in their eyes but also the glare off other vehicles windscreens which would affect other drivers.
Drivers are to be aware that during reversing operations full visibility is to be maintained and should drivers be unable to see they are to ‘get out of the vehicle and look’ (GOAL) to ensure the safety of both them and other road users along with pedestrians. Drivers are to ensure that they check their blind spots physically and not just rely on their fitted vehicle sensors.
What do the warning colours mean?
Red warning
- Dangerous weather is expected and, if you have not done so already, you should take action now to keep yourself and others safe from the impact of the severe weather.
- It is very likely that there will be a risk to life, with substantial disruption to travel, energy supplies and possibly widespread damage to property and infrastructure.
Amber warning
- There is an increased likelihood of impacts from severe weather, which could potentially disrupt your plans.
- This means there is the possibility of travel delays, road and rail closures, power cuts and the potential risk to life and property.
Yellow warning
- Yellow warnings can be issued for a range of weather situations.
- It is important to read the content of yellow warnings to determine which weather situation is being covered by the warning.
If you have any questions, please contact the Health & Safety Team –hse@cardogroup.co.uk