SUN AND HEAT

Despite many of us craving sunshine in the summer months – especially during holiday periods – it can be quite damaging to colleagues working outside for long periods throughout the day.
 
We have procedures in place to ensure all colleagues stay safe. These include reminding colleagues to:
 
STAY HYDRATED. We make sure there are adequate supplies of cool water available to all colleagues, as cool water is absorbed into the body quicker than very cold water. Anyone feeling thirsty is likely to already be dehydrated so it’s important to drink water at regular intervals during the day – especially before, during and after physical labour.
 
PROTECT SKIN FROM HARMFUL RAYS Protect skin from harmful UV rays. We advise that colleagues wear their PPE and lightweight uniforms as clothing will stop most of the UV but we encourage all colleagues to use at least a SPF 30 sunscreen.
 
KEEP HAND SANITISER OUT OF THE SUN. Any alcohol based hand sanitisers need to be kept out of direct sunlight as extreme heat can cause the alcohol in the sanitiser to release vapours that can ignite. Store products in a cool place and, in vehicles, keep in a glove box or a cool, dark place.
 
AMEND SCHEDULES WHERE POSSIBLE. We encourage, where feasible, to try and schedule large amounts of outside manual handling work either before 11am or after 3pm to avoid the typically hottest parts of the day.
 
CHECK ON COLLEAGUES. We remind all colleagues about signs of heat stress so they can look out for each other. Signs include: an inability to concentrate, muscle cramps, heat rash, severe thirst and fainting. If anyone is experiencing these they need to cool off immediately using a cold compress or cold water.

HEAVY RAIN AND FLOODING
 
In the event of heavy rain and flooding, we advise:

• Road gullies are regularly checked and cleared to avoid silt and debris blocking them
• Branches in known flooding areas have sandbags
• To ensure there are cones and tape available should flooded areas need to be cordoned off  
• All drivers slow down to reduce the risk of skidding – whether in the warehouse where the floor surface can be slippery or when out and about
• Monitor weather forecasts at least twice daily
• Communication is also key so that all colleagues can be advised of up-to-date conditions and precautions

STRONG WINDS

Strong winds can impact a number of operations within Keyline. Our general advice is:
 

• Monitor the weather forecast twice daily to allow for decisions to be made prior to the end of day
• Identify the direction strong winds are coming from to understand areas of the branch that will be most impacted by strong winds
• Identify products that need to be secured/lowered and remove products stored at height
• Guidelines are not to operate the crane in any weather condition of Force 6 and above

SNOW AND ICE
 

• We have a grit plan to ensure all priority branches have ample supply
• Snow shovels are kept in close proximity to the staff car park and other key access areas
• For branches that might have experienced water pipes freezing bottled water is always kept on site
• Checks are carried out regularly to ensure pipes are insulated to avoid freezing
• Colleagues who can work from home are encouraged to do so in extreme cases with a phased return to work when safe to do so
• All customers are kept fully informed of any delays or issues relating to service levels and deliveries

 
We hope you’ve found our overview useful. Do get in touch with us for more advice or if you ever have concerns over how we keep our operations functioning come sun, rain, wind or snow.