Weather
Guidance Driving in snow and ice
HR Guidance - Major transport disruption and severe weather
Gov.UK - Guide on driving in adverse weather conditions
Highways Agency - Tips and guidance on winter road conditions
Snow and Rain
The highest cause of accident at the University is slips, trips and falls which reflect national statistics on work related accidents obtained by the Health & Safety Executive. During periods of adverse weather in Autumn and Winter this number increases due partly to less daylight, wet, icy and potentially slippery paths. The University has procedures in place to ensure pathways are maintained to a high standard and are kept clear as far as is reasonably practicable but every individual has a duty to take care of their own safety and not to do anything which may cause harm to others .
Sun
During periods of very hot weather care needs to be taken especially by those working or spending long periods of time outside to avoid prolonged and unprotected exposure. Severe burns and even skin cancer can be caused by exposure to the sun even when overcast. Any work carried on outside should be subject to or included as part of a risk assessment with the implementation of suitable controls:
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Use a high factor sunscreen - minimum SPF15
- Shade your eyes - wear sunglasses or a brimmed/peaked hat
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Wear a hat which covers the ears and the back of the neck
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Wear suitable clothing which covers arms and legs that may get excessive exposure
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Stay in the shade whenever possible, during your breaks and especially at lunch time
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Avoid dehydration by drinking plenty of fluids, especially water
