Safe Start After Christmas and New Year
Happy New Year! We hope everyone had a safe, relaxing, and enjoyable Christmas break. As construction sites begin to reopen following the festive period, it’s important to take the time to ensure a safe, well-planned return to work for all operatives, contractors, and visitors.
Returning after an extended shutdown can present unique challenges, including changed site conditions, winter weather, reduced daylight hours, and workforce fatigue. A structured safe start process helps manage these risks and sets the tone for a safe and productive year ahead.
Carry Out a Thorough Site Inspection
Before work resumes, a full site inspection should be completed by competent persons. This should include checking site security, fencing, access points, and signage, as well as inspecting scaffolding, excavations, temporary works, and walkways. Weather-related damage, standing water, ice, or wind-blown materials should be identified and addressed before operatives return.
Review and Update Risk Assessments and Method Statements
Site conditions may have changed during the shutdown period. Risk assessments and method statements (RAMS) should be reviewed and updated to reflect current site conditions, weather risks, workforce levels, and planned activities. Any changes must be clearly communicated to all workers before tasks begin.
Check Plant, Equipment, and Temporary Services
All plant, machinery, and equipment should be inspected before use to ensure it remains safe and fit for purpose. This includes checking guards, isolation systems, lifting equipment, electrical supplies, and temporary services. Any defective or damaged equipment must be removed from service immediately.
Rebrief the Workforce
A site-wide induction or re-induction should be carried out for all returning workers. This should cover site rules, emergency procedures, welfare arrangements, and any changes to site layout or operations. Toolbox talks are an effective way to highlight risks associated with winter working and restarting after a break.
Manage Fatigue and Wellbeing
The return to work after the festive period can be physically and mentally demanding. Employers should be alert to fatigue, reduced concentration, and wellbeing concerns. Working hours should be managed appropriately, and workers encouraged to speak up if they feel unfit to work safely.
Reinforce Site Housekeeping and Welfare
Good housekeeping standards should be re-established immediately, with clear access routes, tidy work areas, and waste removed. Welfare facilities must be fully operational, clean, heated where necessary, and adequately stocked.
Confirm Emergency Arrangements
Emergency procedures should be reviewed and confirmed before work resumes. This includes checking fire points, first aid provision, emergency contact details, and evacuation routes. All workers should be reminded of what to do in the event of an incident.
Monitor the First Days Back
The first few days back on site are critical. Increased supervision, regular checks, and open communication help identify issues early and prevent incidents from occurring.
A safe start after Christmas and New Year is an essential part of responsible construction site management. By taking the time to plan, inspect, communicate, and supervise effectively, sites can return to work safely and confidently, setting strong foundations for the year ahead.
If you need support with safe start procedures, site inspections, or health and safety planning, Combined Safety Solutions is here to help.