Link copied!

The holiday season is over and now it’s time to get back into the swing of things. Coming back to work and reopening your site is just as important as shutting it down. The New Year is the perfect opportunity to refocus and set the tone for the year ahead. Coming back to work after a couple of weeks off can give some people a serious case of Mondayitis, so consider taking the following steps on the first day back:

• Hold a kick-off Toolbox meeting to re-brief the team

Rather than diving straight into work, start with a kick-off toolbox talk. This is an essential step to rebrief your team on the SSSP (Site-Specific Safety Plan) and emergency procedures. Use this time to check that all workers are fit for work and mentally prepared after the break.

• Complete a Site Review to identify any new hazards

Perform a site review to identify any new hazards or potential risks that may have emerged during the downtime. Check that fences are still secure and containers are locked.

• Inspect Structures, Scaffolding, and Excavations

After a break, it’s crucial to ensure all structures and scaffolds are intact. Inspect scaffolds, check excavations, and assess other infrastructure that may have been affected by weather conditions during your time off. Ensure everything is in working order before resuming normal operations.

• Check Tools, Equipment, and Mobile Plant

Before use, inspect all tools and equipment to confirm they are in good condition. It’s also vital to pre-start mobile plant to ensure it’s functioning correctly.

• Start Slow: Prioritise a Safe and Smooth Transition

Consider a soft start to your operations. Allow your team the time to properly check their work areas, inspect equipment, and remind everyone that safety is the number one priority. This includes keeping in mind workers don’t overheat after spending the last couple of weeks in air conditioning, relaxing, and indulging. They may not be acclimatised to working in the heat.

• Manage the Risks of Working in Hot Conditions

As the weather heats up, so can risk on-site. Make sure that workers are provided with adequate protection from working in the heat so that they can do their work safely and comfortably. Here are some steps to help mitigate these risks:

• • • Provide Adequate Shade and Shelter: Set up shade tents or additional undercover areas if working outdoors. Ensure that windows are open, or fans are in use in indoor workspaces.
    • Ensure Hydration and Protection from the Sun: Workers should have constant access to drinking water, sunscreen, and wear appropriate PPE like lightweight clothing, sunglasses, and sun-protective hats.
    • Monitor Heat-Related Illness: Not everyone reacts to heat the same way. Be aware of the symptoms of heat-related illness such as dizziness, nausea, pale skin, rapid breathing, heat cramps, and dehydration. If a worker shows signs of heat illness, provide first aid and seek medical attention if necessary.

• Know When to Stop Work in Extreme Heat

If temperatures are dangerously high, it’s sometimes best to stop work until conditions improve. Consider shifting physical tasks to machinery for tasks such as lifting or digging, reducing the exposure to extreme heat.

• Support and Look Out for One Another

Safety is a shared responsibility. Encourage your team to keep an eye on each other and to report any symptoms of heat stress. Prevention is key, but swift action can prevent more severe conditions from developing. For the early stages of heat-related illness, first aid can often be effective, but you should always seek medical assistance if in doubt, or if the person’s symptoms are severe. Symptoms to look out for are:

• • • Dizziness and feeling weak
    • Vomiting and nausea
    • Pale, cool and clammy skin
    • Rapid breathing and shortness of breath
    • Heat cramps resulting from heavy sweating without replacing salt and electrolytes
    • Dehydration from increased sweating and workers not drinking enough water

Be prepared this summer and make sure to keep the health, safety, and well-being of workers front of mind. Refer to the below resources for more information:

• Blog: Looking out for everyone in the heat of Summer
• Health & Safety checklist for Builders
• Health & Safety checklist for Tradies

If you have any questions you can contact our Advisory Team on 0800 555 339.