Closing Construction Sites Safely for the Christmas Period
And Key Safety Tips for Sites Operating Over the Holiday Break
As the Christmas period approaches, many construction sites prepare to shut down temporarily, while others continue operating with reduced staff. Whether your site is closing fully or remaining operational over the festive break, careful planning is essential to maintain safety, security, and compliance.
Poor shutdown procedures or inadequate controls during holiday working can lead to accidents, unauthorised access, theft, vandalism, and serious safety risks. Below are key considerations to help construction sites manage the Christmas period safely and responsibly.
Safely Closing a Construction Site for Christmas
A planned and structured site shutdown helps reduce risks during periods of inactivity and ensures a smooth restart in the new year.
1. Secure the Site
Before closing, ensure the site perimeter is fully secure. This includes checking fencing, gates, and hoarding for damage, ensuring all access points are locked, and confirming security signage is visible. Where required, consider alarms, lighting, or security patrols to deter unauthorised access.
2. Isolate Plant, Equipment, and Services
All plant and machinery should be parked securely, keys removed, and isolated where possible. Temporary electrical supplies, gas, and water should be safely shut down unless required for security or monitoring purposes. Any equipment left on site should be protected from weather damage and unauthorised use.
3. Remove or Secure Hazardous Materials
Flammable substances, chemicals, and hazardous materials should be removed from site where possible or stored securely in appropriate containers and locations. Waste materials should be cleared to reduce fire risk and prevent environmental issues.
4. Address Temporary Works and Structures
Scaffolding, excavations, and temporary works should be checked for stability and protected against adverse weather conditions. Open excavations should be covered or fenced, and loose materials secured to prevent movement due to wind or flooding.
5. Housekeeping and Fire Safety
Good housekeeping is essential before closing. Clear walkways, remove combustible waste, and ensure fire exits are unobstructed. Fire detection and firefighting equipment should remain accessible and in working order, particularly if security personnel will be present.
6. Document and Communicate the Shutdown
Ensure the site shutdown is recorded and communicated clearly to all contractors and workers. Emergency contact details should be updated and displayed, and a plan should be in place for responding to incidents during the closure period.
Safety Tips for Construction Sites Operating Over Christmas
Some sites may need to continue working during the holiday period. Reduced staffing levels, fatigue, and changes to routine can increase risk if not managed properly.
1. Review Risk Assessments and Method Statements
Risk assessments should be reviewed to reflect reduced workforce numbers, limited supervision, shorter daylight hours, and potential weather conditions. Ensure RAMS remain suitable and sufficient for the work being carried out.
2. Ensure Adequate Supervision
Even with smaller teams, appropriate supervision must be maintained. Supervisors should be clearly identified, competent, and aware of emergency procedures.
3. Manage Fatigue and Wellbeing
Working over the festive period can impact morale and fatigue levels. Ensure working hours are managed appropriately, breaks are taken, and workers are encouraged to raise concerns if they feel tired or unwell.
4. Maintain Site Security
With fewer people on site, security risks can increase. Control access carefully, keep gates locked, and ensure visitors and deliveries are properly managed.
5. Plan for Emergency Response
Emergency arrangements should be reviewed and communicated. Ensure first aid provision remains adequate, emergency contacts are up to date, and workers know what to do in the event of an incident.
The Christmas period presents unique challenges for construction sites, but with proper planning, clear communication, and robust safety controls, risks can be effectively managed. A safe shutdown or a well-controlled site operating over the break, protects workers, the public, and the project itself.