Just as quickly as summer strolls into our lives, it departs — leaving us with Fall. This is the time of year when the sun starts to disappear more and more and trees begin losing their leaves. Not only does the weather change, but, for some, the way business methods are carried out does, too. Those who work outdoors need to make changes to ensure that construction safety and productivity remain a top priority. Construction sites and workers are one example of changing their whole business model. They must ensure that their projects can continue running smoothly, even as the cold and snowy weather begins.
Preparing construction sites for fall is an essential part of business; here are some tips to help do just that.
Trees will lose their leaves
Trees come in all sizes and serve so many purposes. They suck up the carbon dioxide in the air and release fresh oxygen for us to breathe. Trees provide a shelter and food source for animals and insects. They also provide shade for construction workers who spend their days under a beating hot sun.
What is the one major sign that Fall has arrived? The leaves change to beautiful shades of golden yellows, oranges, and browns. Then the leaves fall to the ground – taking all its protective shade with it.
To prepare for Fall, crews must make sure that they have a replacement for shade on their construction sites. Whether it was used for the crew personally or as a shield for various pieces of equipment, the trees are gone. Securing a temporary fabric structure will allow you to act as a shelter against the sun and all other weather situations.
Another preparation for falling leaves is ensuring that they do not interfere with mechanical equipment or the job site itself. These leaves can pile up, clogging exhausts or jamming equipment. If the leaves get wet, they can also become a very slippery hazard.
Weather changes
Weather changes happen quickly. During the Fall, it is not uncommon for it to be 90° Fahrenheit one day and a high of 55° the next. Working outside on a construction site means that you will need to be prepared to face any and all weather-related changes to maintain efficient and safe production.
When the temperature drops, there are necessary steps you will need to take to maintain a healthy crew. Such as:
- Providing a shelter from inclement weather. Even providing an enclosed construction tent can give your crew a break and a chance to warm up on frigid days.
- Require your crew to bring heavy, warm gear – just in case. The weather during this season can change quickly and dramatically. Therefore, being prepared is extremely important.
- Educate your crew on safety measures and danger signs of too much exposure to rough weather.
Daylight Savings Time
It is important to keep in mind that the Fall brings shorter daylight in our days. Daylight Savings Time asks us to turn our clocks back an hour. Doing so can cause a great need for adjustment in the hours and manner your construction crew handles its projects. Adjusting for it to be lighter in the morning, but darker sooner can make sure your crew uses the best of the daylight it is offered.
Overhead protection on construction sites
As discussed throughout this article, some type of overhead protection can be very beneficial – especially during this time of year. A few of the most obvious reasons you will want shelter are:
- Weather can change in an instant. Overhead protection can protect your crew from harsh weather – including temperature drops, excessive sunlight, rain, wind, etc. For those rough seasons – snow and ice.
- Outdoor elements can wreak havoc on your materials, supplies, tools, equipment, etc. Having this outdoor protection on construction sites means that the expenses your company puts out will not be wasted.
- A lot of falling leaves can potentially cause safety hazards at your construction site. When piled (and especially if they get wet) slip and falls can occur. In addition, the leaves can gather at your construction site and cause a mess – requiring cleanup and potential damage.
- Machinery and construction site equipment is a huge expense. Why would you want to leave them outside and unprotected? Having a source of overhead protection will allow you to maintain your equipment healthily.
This protection can come in the form of a garage or a warehouse. However, if you are looking for the most versatile form of overhead protection, you may want to consider a tent rental. They offer many benefits over other types of shelter. For example:
- Tents can go where you go. Unlike permanent structures, tents can travel. Construction sites often moves from location to location, so you will want something that can go with you.
- Temporary fabric structures are completely customizable. They can be designed to meet any sizing requirements your construction site has.
- The options that come with these tents also make them very beneficial. For instance, side walls, windows, flooring, etc.
Be prepared and look ahead to winter safety
Seasons change quickly. Just as Summer is coming to an end, so will Fall. You will be left with the cold, wintry season. Keep in mind that Mother Nature doesn’t always go by a calendar – so the winter weather could hit before the season technically changes. Instead of waiting until it is too late, prepare your construction site now. Use this intermittent season as a prepping period.
- Complete any maintenance that needs to be done on your machinery or equipment. For any of those vehicles that will be used by your construction crew, this is the time to prepare and create winter emergency kits. These kits should contain things such as blankets, flashlight, snow brush, ice scraper, as well as nutritious snacks and bottled water.
- Check your work site for weather protection. The winter weather can change in an instant so it is best to be prepared. Use this time to prepare a temporary shelter for your crew.
- Take the time to train your employees on winter safety so that they are prepared when winter weather arrives. They should know the proper gear to wear, the signs of overexposure to the cold, and ways to protect themselves and their co-workers in extreme weather.
Following these suggestions can help you successfully prepare your construction sites for Fall weather.