10/02/2026
🚨 Attention Team! 🚨
This month, our HSEC focus is Winter Readiness — because as temperatures begin to drop, changing weather conditions introduce new hazards both on and off site. Snow, ice, reduced visibility, slippery surfaces, and freezing conditions can increase the risk of incidents if we aren’t prepared.
Winter readiness starts before the snow arrives. Taking the time to prepare our vehicles, equipment, walkways, work areas, and ourselves can help eliminate or control winter-related hazards.
Before starting work in winter conditions, ask yourself:
✅Are my vehicle windows, running boards, and access points clear of snow and ice?
✅Are road and ground conditions safe for travel?
✅Are walkways, stairs, and access/egress routes clear and properly maintained?
✅Am I wearing appropriate winter footwear and using traction aids where required?
✅Have materials and work areas been organized so hazards won’t become hidden by snow?
✅Is my equipment properly prepared for colder temperatures?
✅Do you have snow shovels, vehicle window scrappers and other equipment required for clearing snow?
✅Do you have a supply of salt melt for treating pathways and stairs ready for the freezing temperatures?
✅Do you have a plan to clear and dispose of snow should a heavy fall happen?
Here are a few key reminders:
🔹Slow down when driving and increase the distance between you and other vehicles or equipment. Watch for black ice and hidden hazards.
🔹Keep walkways clear of snow and ice, use sand to improve traction, and avoid shortcuts or “goat trails.”
🔹Walk, don’t run. Take short steps, stay focused on your path, and use three-point contact when exiting vehicles.
🔹Maintain good housekeeping. Small debris, lumber, plastic, and loose flagging can become hidden hazards once covered by snow.
🔹Prepare materials and equipment. Keep materials raised off the ground, organize laydown areas, check hoses and lines, and make sure spill kits are stocked and accessible.
🔹Be prepared away from work too. Check smoke and CO alarms and keep a winter emergency kit in your vehicle.
🛑 STOP AND ASSESS — Have winter conditions changed the hazards around me? Is my path of travel safe? Is my vehicle or equipment ready for the conditions? Have I identified winter-related hazards on my POWRA?
If something doesn’t look right, stop and speak up.
Safety First. Every Job. Every Time.
