Does your workplace safety program include steps to reduce the risks your drivers face when driving on the job in winter? It needs to. Your safety responsibilities don’t change with the seasons. But you do need to address the additional driving hazards created by winter road and weather conditions. Some of the biggest hazards for log haulers include:
- Driving too fast for the conditions.
- Lower visibility caused by blowing snow, fog, shorter daylight hours, and dirty windshields.
- Driver fatigue from working in cold, low-light conditions, or on long shifts.
- Driving in remote or rural locations where help may take longer to arrive.
The good news from Road Safety at Work is that most crashes can be prevented. By preparing vehicles, training drivers, and planning trips with safety in mind, employers can reduce risks, protect workers, and avoid costly disruptions.