Tips offered on winter working

The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) has issued advice to businesses and organisations on maintaining health and safety standards during the winter months.

First among the ten tips is for firms at which access paths are frequently used. Iced-up pathways are an accident hazard, the institution claims, with slips and trips accounting for 38 per cent of work-related injuries during the colder months.

As such, IOSH recommends that companies take the step of gritting or salting icy walkways and clearing any snow that may obstruct users.

The rest of the recommendations made by the health and safety body relate to driving. Chief among these is taking the decision as to whether journeys are necessary. Working from home or taking public transport may be alternatives to getting behind the wheel in hazardous conditions.

Earlier this week, IOSH president Ray Hurst advised employers to look out for signs of stress among staff during the busy festive period.