AWC - 07.01.10 Brief for Ops Managers for Team Disc

[brothermagrew]

Adverse Weather Conditions (January 2010 update)
07.01.10 - Brief for operations managers for team discussions

Background
As you have probably seen on the news, the UK is experiencing its worst winter in 30 years.
We need to take extra care, make sure risks are assessed before going out and staff remain aware once out on delivery or collection. Managers must support staff in making the right decision.
Safety hazards during this winter period can increase and change quickly due to the severe weather conditions and longer hours of darkness.
People may want to deliver the mail in adverse weather, as they don't want to let our customers down or don't want the workload to build up. We must ensure our people do not put themselves in unnecessary danger and this must be communicated at daily huddles, WTLL and 1-2-1s.
Ask your people to remain aware and keep an eye out for safety hazards. If they feel their route has become too dangerous or inaccessible due to poor weather, support their decision to not carry on and encourage them to return to the office.
Be prepared to update the walk risk assessment log every day and make sure the most recent version is shared with anybody who is covering somebody else's walk.
Make sure you are prepared and know how to minimise the risks of having accidents.
At the onset of severe weather, managers should contact their line manager and seek agreement to implement the local severe weather action plan.
Check reliable weather websites, such as BBC Weather to keep a regular eye on weather conditions.
Please use the following key messages to brief your people on what to do in adverse weather.

Key messages:
The risk of slips and falls increase at this time of year.
Make sure you and your colleagues are safe at all times and take the necessary steps to reduce the risk of accidents.
Safety on delivery starts before you leave the office.
Make sure you are wearing the appropriate clothing for your duty.
Check bag weights - the lighter the better in poorer conditions. Wear the pouch across the chest to spread weight.
Check the walk log for hazards and difficult calls. highlight these by marking letters on the back.
Check all equipment, cycles and vehicles are working correctly before using them.
Keep to your designated route so that others will know where you are.
If you have any concerns speak to your manager.

Working outside in adverse weather:
Ensure you are wearing appropriate clothing and layers for the conditions. You may be outside for a number of hours and need to plan accordingly.
Wear high visibility clothing at all times and make sure you can be seen.
Ensure your shoes have sufficient grip.
If you need replacement uniform or footwear, talk to your manager about the choices available.
Take extra care on stairways and footpaths to reduce the risk of slipping on snow, ice or leaves.
If it becomes too cold to work seek shelter and let your manager know.
In high winds watch out for flying debris such as branches and tiles.

Driving in adverse weather:
Assess the weather and road conditions before setting off.
Ensure tyres, lights and wipers are working correctly before leaving the yard.
Wear a seatbelt at all times when driving, even when doing a short journey.
Check the vehicle has appropriate anti-freeze and screen wash.
Ensure mirrors and seats are properly adjusted before moving off.
Drive according to the conditions. Black ice, rain, fog, snow and ice all require extra concentration. Allow more time if needed.
Avoid sharp acceleration, braking and steering in slippery conditions. If you start to skid, take your foot of the accelerator and steer in the direction of the skid.
Clear the windscreen, mirrors and other windows of snow, ice or condensation before setting off.
Be careful leaving and entering the vehicle as you could slip. Assess the surface before you leave the vehicle.

Cycling in adverse weather:
Assess whether it is safe to use a bicycle in the weather and road conditions. If not alternative arrangements must be made.
Safety helmets and high visibility clothing are mandatory and must be worn whenever using a bike.
Ensure tyres, torches and cycle lamps are working correctly before leaving the yard.
If weather conditions change and become too difficult to cycle push rather than ride cycles.

[steven100]

Another thing written down on wasted paper, in practice GET YOUR MAIL OUT.

[portadown]

no media talk about the lazy post person now no mention of us out and about in the snow and all weathers people forget

[Wild Rover]

Seeing as how RM bleat on about Health & Safety, where are the snow chains for EVERY employees boots/shoes?

[Dee Plish]

Another thing written down on wasted paper, in practice GET YOUR MAIL OUT.

Absolutely correct. Token arse covering document, in practise, they do not support us and want give the incredulous non believing looks when we tell them we can't do as much as they want. Tossers.

[TrueBlueTerrier]

Another thing written down on wasted paper, in practice GET YOUR MAIL OUT.

Absolutely correct. Token arse covering document, in practise, they do not support us and want give the incredulous non believing looks when we tell them we can't do as much as they want. Tossers.

Well known practice amongst seagull management practitioners, its called Box Ticking.