Marley launches Winter Safety campaign

Marley has launched its Winter Safety campaign to provide professional roofers with advice and support on how to stay safe during harsh weather conditions.

Daniel Redfern, marketing manager at Marley, said: “As a responsible roof systems manufacturer, on-site health and safety is a top priority for Marley, with the winter months requiring very specific advice. We are committed to providing useful, straight-forward information, highlighting the risks and showing how to minimise them.”

Watch the weather

Throughout the winter months the weather can be unpredictable, hence the weather forecast should be monitored daily to ensure action, if required, is taken. It is also essential for roofers to check height platforms and roofs regularly for ice. As a requirement of the Working at Height Regulations 2005, if ice is present, work should cease immediately. In addition, the HSE recommend checking the windspeed with a hand-held anemometer to avoid falls.

Keep the heat in

Lower temperatures mean that additional clothing is essential to help counter the impact of cold on the body. Rapid heat loss or reduction in body temperature over time can lead to serious illness and downtime. Wear at least three layers of clothing – a base layer with moisture-wicking properties to draw sweat away from the body; a middle, breathable layer to help insulate and a wind/waterproof outer layer. Ensure the clothing fits well, allowing for a full range of movement and gives good elemental protection. Wet clothing should be changed immediately. Gloves should be worn at all times, especially when using ladders or scaffolding as frostbite can occur immediately if extremely cold metal is touched with bare hands. Finally, it is essential that hot food and drinks are consumed throughout the day to help keep the body’s core temperature at a healthy level.

Avoid slips, trip and falls

When a surface, such as a scaffolding platform or roof becomes cold, ice can form and present a major slipping hazard, with height only adding to the danger. Such areas need to be treated to avoid slips, trips and falls. Clearing icy patches with salt or sand improves traction and should be applied when and where needed. Sturdy footwear, such as robust waterproof boots with non-slip soles, should be worn with thick socks for added protection.

Redfern added: “As well as a host of useful winter safety advice available on our website, we’re also running a competition to win three fantastic Makita heated jackets. There’s the chance to win one jacket each month for December 2021, January 2022 and February 2022.