As winter brings freezing temperatures and inclement weather, Eastman Cooke is committed to prioritizing safety and site protection. Our outstanding superintendents and project managers remain dedicated to achieving the highest level of safety and making sure our jobsites are prepared to withstand the toughest conditions in any season. To help navigate these challenges safely and effectively, we’ve compiled some essential strategies.
The Calm Before the Storm
Prior to potentially dangerous weather, Eastman Cooke staff receive alerts from Management notifying them of the risk. The best way to prevent accidents is with thorough preparation beforehand.
“Being properly dressed for the weather will play a large role in reducing exposure to extremely cold weather,” said Superintendent Steven Dodge. Prolonged exposure to extreme cold can also lead to serious health concerns, including frostbite and hypothermia. “Host toolbox talks with your subcontractors regarding the importance of wearing layers.” One tip that you may not expect comes from David Shroads: “Most don’t think of this, but you need to eat enough calories for your body to stay warm.”
Eastman Cooke Superintendent Jonathan Gonzalez keeps an eye on the weather before the workweek starts, and recommends being mindful of dark clouds or high winds picking up. Most importantly, communication is key. Jonathan says, “Conduct daily huddles and speak with your teams’ supervisors about best practices in the event a storm is to occur.”
To safeguard our workers and projects, it is crucial to ensure that all crews are equipped with proper layered clothing, including moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer layers to combat the chill. Using hand and feet warmers can help maintain comfortable working conditions.
Securing the Job Site
Mother Nature can pose risks to the stability of an existing job site. “Prior to a snowy day, we use a snow melt preventer and may cover certain areas with tarps. After it snows, simply remove the tarp and get back to work,” said General Superintendent Ray Ruggiano.
Freezing conditions can affect concrete, pipes, and equipment. “Properly warm up all machinery and start with a slow idle approximately 10 minutes before using,” Ruggiano said. Shroads emphasized the importance of daily checklists for machinery. “The biggest work hazards are frostbite and icy slip-and-falls,” Shroads said. Maintaining clear pathways and wearing slip-resistant boots are both great strategies for preventing injury.
When asked about securing a jobsite in frigid temperatures, Ray Ruggiano emphasized the importance of taking proactive measures: “Tent in your jobsite or close all doors and windows if possible. Provide temporary heat through electric heaters if possible, as they are safer than fossil-fueled heaters.”
Sometimes, there are weather conditions that no amount of preparation can solve. “If the conditions are unsafe and impact vision or the ability to operate your tasks safely, it is always best to pause and make a plan,” Dodge said. “That plan may be to stop work for the day.”
Safety should always come first, as no task is more important than ensuring the well-being of our workers. With these strategies in mind, we can create a safer, more productive environment even in the face of winter’s challenges.
Safety Matters.
For more information on weather safety, check out these helpful OSHA resources: