Link copied!

Kick off the New Year safely on site

The holidays are done and dusted, and it’s time to ease back into work. Reopening your site safely is just as important as shutting it down properly and the New Year is the perfect chance to reset, refocus, and set the tone for the months ahead.

After a couple of weeks off, it’s normal for the team to have a bit of Mondayitis. So on day one, take it slow and run through a few key steps to get everyone back on track safely.

Start with a kick-off Toolbox Meeting

Before anyone gets stuck in, hold a Toolbox meeting.
Review  SSSP (Site-Specific Safety Plan), walk through emergency procedures, and ensure everyone is fit for work and mentally ready after the break.

Do a Site Review for new hazards

A lot can change while you’re off-site.
Walk the site and note any new hazards or risks, check fences and gates, and make sure everything is still secure.

Inspect structures, scaffolding, and excavations

Weather and time can take a toll. Check scaffolds, excavations, temporary structures, and anything else that could have shifted or been damaged while you were away.

Check tools, equipment, and mobile plant

Before the team starts using anything, run inspections and pre-starts. Make sure tools, gear, and mobile plant are in good working condition.

Ease back into it, safety first

Think about a soft start. Give everyone time to check their work areas, ease into the pace, and remember that safety is the priority.
Also keep in mind: after a couple of weeks relaxing in air-con, people may not be ready for full heat exposure straight away.

Heat Safety: Keep Your Team Cool and Safe

Hot weather brings extra risks, so put simple steps in place to keep your team safe and comfortable.

Provide shade and shelter: Set up shade tents or covered areas outdoors. For indoor work, open windows or use fans to keep air moving.

Keep everyone hydrated and protected: Make sure workers always have access to drinking water, and encourage sunscreen, lightweight clothing, sunglasses, and sun-protective hats.

Watch for signs of heat-related illness: Everyone reacts differently to heat. Keep an eye out for symptoms like:

• Dizziness or weakness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Pale, cool, clammy skin
• Rapid breathing
• Heat cramps
• Dehydration
• Confusion, disorientation, or slurred speech
• Heavy sweating
• Loss of consciousness
  

If someone shows symptoms, provide first aid and seek medical help if needed.

Know when to stop work

If temperatures get extreme, it might be safer to pause work until conditions improve.
Where possible, shift heavy physical tasks to machinery to reduce heat exposure.

Look out for each other

Safety is a team effort. Remind everyone to check in on their mates and report any heat stress symptoms early. Quick action can stop things from getting worse.

Be prepared this summer

Keep your team’s health, safety, and well-being front of mind as you head into the New Year.
Here are some handy resources to help:

• Blog: Looking out for everyone in the heat of summer
• Health & Safety checklist for Builders
• Health & Safety checklist for Tradies

If you need support or have questions, our Advisory Team is here to help on 1800 954 702  .