Winter Workplace Hazards You Might Not Notice

Winter often brings colder temperatures, darker days and busier schedules. While many hazards are easy to spot, several risks appear quietly during the season and can catch organisations by surprise. Small changes in weather and workplace activity can affect safety, comfort and productivity in ways that are easy to overlook.

This article highlights common winter hazards that are often missed and offers simple, practical tips to help workplaces stay safe during colder months.

Wet Entrances and Slippery Walkways — A Common Winter Workplace Hazard

Cold weather usually means more rain, moisture and wet surfaces. Entrances, corridors and external walkways can become slippery very quickly. In many cases, slips and falls are preventable through basic housekeeping and early awareness.

Consider:

• floor mats near entrances

• regular drying of wet spots

• wet floor signs

• weather protected entry points

A few quick checks each morning can prevent avoidable incidents throughout the season.

Reduced Visibility

Shorter daylight hours can reduce visibility inside and outside buildings. Poor lighting increases the chance of accidents, especially around high traffic areas, staircases and loading zones.

Improving lighting and ensuring bulbs are replaced on time can significantly reduce risk. Motion sensors and automatic lighting can also help maintain visibility during darker hours.

Electrical Load from Seasonal Lighting

Festive decorations and temporary lighting can increase electrical use more than expected. Additional sockets, extension cables and decorative lights can overload power systems.

It is a good idea to:

• avoid overcrowding extension cables

• check sockets for heat

• keep wiring organised

• confirm fire extinguishers and exits are clear

Electrical overloads contribute to many winter related fire risks.

Additional Heating Equipment

Portable heaters and heating fans are common during colder months. These can pose risks if placed close to flammable materials or left unattended.

Ensure heating units:

• are kept away from paper, fabrics and packaging

• have adequate ventilation

• are positioned safely

• are turned off when not required

Heating is helpful, but safety should remain part of the process.

Reduced Mobility and Bulky Clothing

Colder weather often means thicker clothing and heavier footwear. While this feels comfortable, it can reduce mobility and increase the risk of catching clothing on equipment or moving awkwardly in confined spaces.

Encouraging clear pathways and organised storage can help staff move safely and reduce risks associated with restricted movement.

Less Staff and More Pressure

Workloads can become heavier towards the end of the year while team availability sometimes becomes limited. This combination increases the risk of shortcuts, reduced attention and higher stress levels.

Simple measures such as task planning, better time allocation and regular check ins can support workplaces during this busy period.

Small Checks Make a Big Difference

Fortunately, most winter hazards are manageable with small, consistent actions. A few minutes each day spent reviewing walkways, lighting, electrical connections and emergency access points can protect people throughout the season.

Winter is often a time of celebration, planning and change. It is also a valuable moment to pay attention to risks that quietly appear as the season progresses. Awareness and preparation today help create safer workplaces for tomorrow.

How Base Solutions Can Help

If your organisation needs support identifying seasonal hazards, reviewing risks or putting preventive measures in place, our Risk Assessments service can help you analyse specific concerns and apply practical controls.

We assist businesses in reducing risks, improving awareness and maintaining safer work environments throughout the year.

Learn more about our Risk Assessments service here: ➡️ https://www.basesolutionsltd.com/risk-assessments-service