Most of the images we associate with fall are harmless: pumpkin patches, pretty leaves, and corn mazes. But we get so wrapped up in visions of pumpkin spice that we often forget the transition from warm to cold also means inclement weather.
This is all well and good if you’re working indoors—but it’s a whole different story for people who work at construction sites. It’s hard for workers and equipment to be kept safe. That’s why this is the perfect time to brush up on these tips for preparing your construction site for severe weather.
Thunderstorms
Thunderstorms are some of the most common severe weather patterns during this time of year. Just because a scenario is common doesn’t mean we should be complacent about it, however. These are some principles to keep in mind during thunderstorms:
- Monitor the storm’s position as you go.
- Secure loose materials from high winds.
- Avoid having workers in high places.
- Unplug unused equipment ahead of lighting.
- Double-check water pumps and drains to prevent flooding.
In addition, make sure that workers know what to do in the event someone is struck by lightning. Move the victim to a safe location, call 911, check for a pulse, and—if necessary—perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.
Tornados
We typically associate tornadoes with spring, but since fall is a mixture of warm and cool air, tornados during fall are common (depending on the area.) Along with the thunderstorm tips, you should also follow these tips during a tornado:
- Have an action plan in place and train your employees in it.
- Create an alarm system that can alert employees about incoming tornadoes.
- Exit all equipment before a tornado hits.
- Have a designated storm shelter area on site.
- Assign someone to perform a headcount in case of emergency.
Keep in mind that one of the biggest dangers in a tornado is debris. When you’re preparing your construction site for severe weather of this type, be extra cautious about where sharp or dangerous materials are stored outside.
Blizzards
Even though the weather is still fairly warm for most of the fall, later fall can bring early snowfall, and that can take a toll on your employees and equipment. Prepare for an unseasonable blizzard by doing the following:
- Make sure your employees have a warming shelter they can visit regularly.
- Ensure everyone has the proper PPE—if employees don’t have it, provide it.
- Use proper snow removal techniques.
- Keep emergency kits in all vehicles and equipment.
- Warm up all equipment before use.
Along with warming up equipment, it’s especially important to perform regular equipment inspections during these kinds of cold snaps. Freezing temperatures can lead to rubber hoses and seals breaking, which results in hydraulic fuel complications even for new machines.
