Often built in remote areas. Access roads are built to withstand heavy transport and loads, but not always maintained to the standards of public roads.
Working in Nordic countries brings in another parameter that can easily become a liability when driving – snow and ice.
Now that the winter has arrived, are we all ready to go? Have we got the correct tires for driving safely on snow and ice?
As part of that preparation, AFF Windservices is ready for the busy winter. Winter tires with spikes on all our vehicles.
Awareness raising towards driving under these conditions. And also, awareness raising towards some often forgotten necessities that can become handy. Dry and warm clothes in each vehicle. Ensuring there is always at least a half tank of fuel in it. Ensuring there is antifreeze liquids and enough screen wash, suitable for the minus temperatures.
Preparation is the key to a successful result.
Advice from our managers
Considering the adverse weather conditions in wintertime daily I get used to keep a safe distance from vehicles that are in front of me, avoid sudden changes in speed or in direction. As much as possible I try to slow down the car trough inertia / with support of gearbox, rather than using brake as a first choice, long and progressive braking are preferable in my daily driving in case there is a need to slow down or stop. Never let the car drive on road in neutral position, use the gearbox to help slowing down.
Pay more attention during driving in these conditions, we are used to do the same route every day, this habit make us to feel more comfortable, but that can be our enemy, so plan your actions when driving; when approaching crossroads, roundabouts or even at corners. It can make a big difference between being safe or skidding off the road, or even getting into accidents. Adopt a defensive driving attitude.
Other good advice is the one that we already discussed. Keep warm clothes in our car in case that we are stuck somewhere without any help nearby. Keep at least half tank of diesel all the time. Some food and liquids to stay hydrated and nourished.
Other actions that are to be considered on the project itself. Ensure road markings are done, with the use of snow poles. Ensure also that all vehicles, including heavy plant have got the adequate tires for driving on snow and ice. Road sweeping should take priority over any activity after a snowfall and additional salt/gravel should be available, in those areas where machinery cannot reach yet personnel is walking around. Any walking surface needs to be treated and protected against slipping, with i.e. a grid cover, to prevent slips and falls.
Suitable, warm resting rooms need to be available as well as heated toilets. Working force needs to have a space where they can not only warm up but also have a warm food and drinks.
Extreme cold requires also extra and better handling of tools, that are not made for those temperatures, for this to happen more and better storage needs to be in place, i.e. heated insulated storage containers.
Golden rule to any weather circumstance – don’t run and don’t rush. This is even more critical when it comes to working in the winter.
AFF Windservices takes safety as number one priority.
Stay safe!
