Safe Work Procedure: Severe Weather

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER] Revision Date: [DATE] Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE] Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This Safe Work Procedure (SWP) outlines the necessary precautions and steps to be taken to ensure worker safety during severe weather conditions. It applies to all personnel working in areas where severe weather may pose a risk. This procedure covers preparation, awareness, and response to various severe weather events, including but not limited to thunderstorms, high winds, heavy rain, and extreme temperatures.

2. Definitions

Severe Weather: Weather conditions that pose a significant risk to life and property, including thunderstorms, high winds, heavy rain, extreme temperatures, and other hazardous weather events.

PPE: Personal Protective Equipment, including but not limited to safety glasses, gloves, and appropriate clothing.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

Monitor weather forecasts and alerts to identify potential severe weather conditions.
Communicate weather-related risks and safety procedures to workers.
Ensure that work areas are safe and that necessary precautions are in place before work begins.
Suspend work activities if weather conditions become too dangerous.
Conduct post-weather event inspections to ensure work areas are safe for resumption of work.

3.2 Workers

Monitor weather conditions and be aware of potential hazards.
Follow supervisor instructions and adhere to safety procedures.
Use required PPE and ensure it is in good condition.
Report any unsafe conditions or hazards to the supervisor immediately.
Take necessary precautions to protect themselves and others during severe weather events.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

Assist in the development and review of severe weather safety procedures.
Conduct safety training and awareness programs related to severe weather.
Investigate incidents and recommend corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
High Winds	Flying debris, structural damage, loss of control	Monitor weather forecasts, secure loose materials, suspend work at height, seek shelter in a sturdy building
Heavy Rain	Flooding, reduced visibility, slips, trips, and falls	Monitor weather forecasts, provide adequate drainage, use slip-resistant footwear, increase visibility with lighting
Extreme Temperatures (Heat)	Heatstroke, heat exhaustion, dehydration	Monitor temperature, provide shade and hydration, schedule frequent breaks, use cooling PPE
Extreme Temperatures (Cold)	Hypothermia, frostbite	Monitor temperature, provide warm clothing, schedule frequent breaks in warm areas, use insulated PPE
Lightning	Electrocution, fire	Monitor weather forecasts, suspend outdoor work, seek shelter in a grounded building or vehicle, avoid contact with metal objects

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Proper PPE is essential for protecting workers from the hazards associated with severe weather.

Safety Glasses - Protect eyes from dust, debris, and splashes.
Gloves - Protect hands from temperature extremes, cuts, and abrasions. Use impermeable gloves and protective clothing as necessary to prevent skin contact [1].
Appropriate Clothing - Wear clothing suitable for the weather conditions, such as waterproof gear in heavy rain or insulated clothing in cold temperatures.
Slip-Resistant Footwear - Reduce the risk of slips, trips, and falls in wet or icy conditions.

Inspect PPE before each use to ensure it is in good condition and replace if damaged. Store PPE in a clean, dry place when not in use.

6. Equipment and Tools

Using the right equipment and tools is crucial for maintaining safety during severe weather.

Weather Radio - Provides real-time weather updates and alerts.
Shovels - For clearing snow or water.
Sand/Salt Spreaders - To improve traction on icy surfaces.
Lighting Equipment - To increase visibility during heavy rain or low-light conditions.

Inspect equipment and tools before each use to ensure they are in good working condition. Report any defects or malfunctions immediately.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Workers must be trained on severe weather safety procedures, including hazard identification, risk assessment, and the proper use of PPE. Training should cover specific weather-related hazards relevant to the work area.

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Before starting work, conduct a pre-job briefing to discuss potential weather-related hazards, review safety procedures, and assign responsibilities. Ensure all workers understand the plan and are aware of emergency procedures.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Secure loose materials and equipment to prevent them from being blown away by high winds.
Ensure adequate drainage to prevent flooding.
Provide access to shelter in case of severe weather.
Clear walkways and work areas of snow and ice.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Monitor Weather Conditions

Continuously monitor weather forecasts and alerts from reliable sources such as weather radios, local news, and online weather services. Pay attention to warnings and advisories for severe weather events.

Check the weather forecast before starting work and throughout the day.
Be aware of changing weather conditions.
Use a weather radio or mobile app to receive alerts.

Safety considerations: Stay informed about potential weather hazards.

Suspend Work Activities

If severe weather conditions are imminent or present, suspend all non-essential work activities. Ensure all workers are accounted for and directed to a safe shelter.

Follow supervisor instructions to suspend work.
Cease operations and secure the work area.
Move to a designated safe shelter.

Safety considerations: Prioritize safety over productivity.

Seek Shelter

During severe weather events, seek shelter in a sturdy building or vehicle. Avoid open areas, trees, and metal objects during lightning storms.

Move to a designated shelter area.
Follow emergency procedures.
Stay informed about the situation.

Safety considerations: Protect yourself from weather hazards.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Stay Informed - Monitor weather forecasts and alerts regularly.
Secure Materials - Secure loose materials and equipment to prevent them from becoming hazards in high winds.
Provide Shelter - Ensure access to safe shelter in case of severe weather.
Use PPE - Wear appropriate PPE for the weather conditions.
Communicate - Maintain clear communication between supervisors and workers.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In the event of a weather-related emergency, follow these general procedures:

Assess the situation and ensure personal safety.
Alert emergency services if necessary.
Provide first aid to injured personnel.
Follow evacuation procedures if required.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

High Winds - Seek shelter indoors, away from windows and doors.
Heavy Rain/Flooding - Move to higher ground, avoid driving through flooded areas.
Lightning - Seek shelter in a grounded building or vehicle, avoid contact with metal objects.
Extreme Heat - Move to a cool area, drink plenty of water, seek medical attention if symptoms of heatstroke or heat exhaustion develop.
Extreme Cold - Seek shelter in a warm area, wear warm clothing, seek medical attention if symptoms of hypothermia or frostbite develop.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

Emergency Services: 911
[Company Safety Officer]: [PHONE NUMBER]
[Local Hospital]: [PHONE NUMBER]

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

Report all incidents, near-misses, and hazards related to severe weather to the supervisor immediately. Conduct a thorough investigation to determine the root cause and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION] Date: [APPROVAL DATE]