Ensuring Safe and Efficient Site Access During Inclement Weather

The Impact of Inclement Weather on Construction Sites

Bad weather can cause a number of issues, including:

Mud and Flooding

Heavy rains can lead to waterlogged and muddy conditions, making it difficult for vehicles and equipment to maneuver around and for workers to continue working. Flooding can block access routes and create dangerous conditions, making it more likely for equipment to get stuck or damaged.

• Setting up temporary drainage systems can help control water and prevent flooding. Pipes, ditches, or pumps can move water away from important parts of the site.

Snow and Ice

Slippery surfaces can be dangerous for workers and machinery. These conditions can also block access routes and make moving materials and equipment difficult.

• During winter months, remember to use salt, sand, or de-icing chemicals to treat icy surfaces and improve vehicle traction. Regularly plow snow to keep access routes clear and ensure safe passage.

Erosion and Soil Compaction

Regular and frequent rain can cause the soil to erode and get packed down, making the construction site unstable and creating unsafe working conditions.

Strategies to Help Maintain Access After Bad Weather

It is essential to maintain access after bad weather for a number of reasons – and safety is always a main concern. It’s always important to protect equipment from damage and make sure workers have stable, non-slip surfaces. These are two ways good access control helps prevent accidents and injuries. 

Improve Access on Your Site

MegaDeck^® HD+ composite mats are designed to offer a stable surface under the most challenging conditions. These mats are essential to keep vehicles and equipment safe to access in muddy or wet conditions. 

The patent-pending MDX pinning system uses high-strength aluminum alloy pins and engineered plastic to provide durability and strength. It securely links the mats together, creating a continuous, stable surface for work platforms and temporary roadways, and has multiple benefits:

• Prevents shifting, separation, or movement of the mats under heavy equipment.
• Mats can be locked securely with clear visual indicators.
• A reversible design allows mats to be installed in various configurations.
• The high-strength pin and plastic components are designed for extreme environments and provide long-lasting performance.
• Increased cost-efficiency from multiple features minimizes the need for constant adjustments or replacements.

To better manage construction site access after bad weather, also try some of these strategies:

Weather Monitoring

Keep an eye on the weather forecast to plan ahead for bad conditions. This helps to adjust project schedules and take steps to prevent problems before they happen. It’s always easier to prevent issues than to fix them later.

Site Assessment

Look for trouble spots on the construction site that could worsen due to bad weather. These would be areas with poor drainage, erosion, or flooding potential. Plan ahead with potential solutions to manage these issues before they become more serious.

Tips to Maintain Construction Site Safety 

1. Regular Inspections → Check access routes and work areas often to spot weather-related issues. Look for signs of erosion, mud buildup, or other hazards that could affect safety.
   
   
2. Equipment Maintenance → Make sure all equipment is in good condition and ready for bad weather. Add features like snow chains or mudguards to improve safety and performance in tough conditions.
   
   
3. Worker Training → Teach workers how to safely operate equipment and move around in bad weather. Train them to deal with slippery surfaces and stay safe in challenging conditions. One big benefit of MegaDeck HD+ mats is how simple they are to install. A small team can install a truckload of mats (42 mats), unloading and setting them up swiftly. This quick installation helps keep the project on track, reduces downtime, and provides an efficient access route.
   
   
4. Choose Durable Solutions → MegaDeck HD+ mats are made to last over 10 years. They're resistant to rotting and wear, making them a smart, long-lasting choice for your site.

Key Takeaways:

• Regularly monitor weather forecasts and conduct site assessments to identify potential hazards before they become issues.
• Develop and communicate comprehensive emergency plans that include evacuation procedures and training for all employees.
• Create and maintain stable access routes using appropriate materials, like MegaDeck HD+, to ensure safe navigation after adverse weather conditions.
• Regular inspections of access routes and work areas should be conducted to identify and promptly address any weather-related hazards.
• Provide thorough training for workers on safe practices for navigating and operating equipment in inclement weather.
• Ensure all equipment is properly maintained and equipped for adverse conditions to prevent damage and enhance safety.
  
  

Ensure Safety with Signature Systems

It takes careful planning, preventative measures, and efficient management techniques to ensure safe and efficient construction site access after bad weather. Even in severe weather circumstances, Signature Systems’ products will help keep construction sites safe and accessible after inclement weather. 

Adopting composite matting solutions is essential to safety not only on construction sites but across industries. Whether it's MegaDeck^® HD+, SignaRoad^®, DuraDeck^®, or DiamondTrack^™, the Signature Systems team is here to assist you with selecting the safest, most efficient composite mats for your business. Contact us for a consultation with one of our experts.