NOW HIRING – CLICK HERE TO APPLY! Español Vaccination Tracker Our Story Our Work Our Locations Careers Employee Links Contact Blog < All News November 22, 2021 Construction Safety Tips: A Guide to Winter Weather by David DeGraaf It’s never too soon to begin outfitting your jobsites for the winter months. Just as quickly as autumn crept upon us, so too will icy conditions. First and foremost, educate your crews on the signs of hypothermia and frostbite. Symptoms can include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech and drowsiness. Your body loses heat faster than it can be produced when exposed to cold temperatures. Be aware of the warning signs for yourself and look out for colleagues. It’s all about accountability. Our team of safety experts has compiled a guide for contractors to best equip their jobsites this winter. Attire Put on at least three layers of clothing, gloves and hats for protection from the elements Wear appropriate shoes for insulation, traction and water-resistance Shorter, slower steps help you react more quickly to changes in traction Equipment Allow ample time to warm up equipment and tools Always have an emergency kit on-site Emergency weather kits should include a brush, ice scraper, shovel, flares, non-perishable protein-packed snacks, water and tow straps Food and Drink Stay hydrated during cold temperatures – oftentimes you don’t realize the amount of water lost and you could feel less thirsty Caloric loss will be higher at cold temperatures so eating properly throughout the day and evening can help you stay healthy and ready for the day Jobsite Clear ice and snow from all working areas to prevent slips – not just at the ground level, be sure to clear walkways, roofs, ladders and any other working areas Stay in tune with the National Weather Service for the most accurate forecast Designate a heated break area Look out for downed power lines Vehicles Ensure tire tread, battery voltage and windshield wipers are in good condition Have the following readily available – jumper cables, flashlight, abrasive material such as sand or cat litter, snow brush and snow shovel Stay up to date on vehicle maintenance Plan your route and give yourself extra time depending on road conditions Slow down and increase your following distance Caution and preparation are the best defense. More information on winter weather hazards and planning can be found on OSHA’s website. Previous News Post Search for: About Kent Companies Kent Companies is a full-service concrete construction contractor offering a complete range of concrete-related specialties. Social Media Facebook Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Archives Archives Select Month November 2021 October 2021 September 2021 August 2021 July 2021 June 2021 May 2021 March 2021 February 2021 December 2020 August 2020 March 2020 February 2020 January 2020 October 2019 July 2019 June 2019 March 2019 September 2018 August 2018 July 2018 June 2018 March 2018 February 2018 January 2018 November 2017 October 2017 September 2017 June 2017 April 2017 March 2017 February 2017 January 2017 November 2016 October 2016 September 2016 August 2016 July 2016 June 2016 May 2016 April 2016 March 2016 February 2016 December 2015 October 2015 Categories Categories Select Category Austin Awards Charlotte Community Dallas Grand Rapids Ohio People Recognition Safety Texas Traverse City Uncategorized MICHIGAN, OHIO, TEXAS, CAROLINAS, MISSOURI Toll Free: 800-968-2345 OUR STORY History Mission Safety The Four Hallmarks In The Community Blog OUR WORK Concrete Construction Concrete Pumping Site Concrete Building Restoration & Commercial Waterproofing Deep Foundation Solutions Facilities Services Floor Specialties Underlayment Specialties OUR LOCATIONS Grand Rapids, Michigan Dallas, Texas Austin, Texas Charlotte, North Carolina Detroit, Michigan Columbus + Strasburg, Ohio Traverse City, Michigan St. Louis Area CAREERS Search Jobs Open Interviews Why Join the Kent Family? Our Hiring Process Craftworkers Professionals Students / New Grads Employee Links Content © 2021 Kent Companies: all rights reserved. Designed and Developed by Clearly Media