Winter driving (1) (PDF)

NES (North Electrical Services) Ltd.

SAFETY ALERT

Date: 27.02.2018

No: 012

Extreme Winter Driving Conditions
We are being warned about the storm which is about to hit the country over
the next few days. The ‘Beast from the East’ as it has become known is
certainly a headline grabber.
We want to make sure that we are not going to do anything to become the
headlines ourselves when we are driving in these conditions.
We are told to expect very severe weather- snow, gales, and blizzard
conditions. This safety alert is to prompt us to think about the conditions that
we might be faced with and adjust our driving accordingly.
What we need to do.
There are a few simple things that we need to do before we put ourselves at risk and set out in severe weather
conditions.
As with all safety matters involving risk, we must make
sure that we have to be exposed to the risk –
Firstly, and most importantly is asking yourself - Do I
really have to drive during the worst of the weather, or
can I reschedule or work differently? An easy step to
overlook.
If you determined that you have to travel, then there are
several things we need to consider
-

Allow more journey time.
Check road and weather reports for your route and destination conditions.
Reduce your speed and increase your braking distances.
Fully demist vehicle before setting out.
Check vehicle condition – tyres, brakes, lights, wipers, screen wash levels etc.
Drive with headlights on.
Make sure that you have plenty of fuel.
Have your mobile phone fully charged or an in-car charging lead.
Sun / tinted glasses to reduce glare from snow.
Warm clothing, gloves, torch, snack food and water.
LET’S MAKE SURE THAT WE ARE AS PREPARED AS WE CAN BE FOR THE ‘BEAST FROM THE EAST’

Remember if severe weather is going to make you late, don’t put yourself at risk by driving too fast
for the conditions – its better to be ten minutes late than 40 years too early!!

“Working safely beyond compliance is the NES way”