KEEP SAFE PLS READ.. Health & Safety Info Note – No.10 Driving a Vehicle in Winter Issued: Dec 2014 1. Introduction The wintry weather in Scotland can bring hazardous driving conditions. We recently issued the following information in our Senior Staff Brief. Due to a member request we have put our guidance in this Information Note. Please circulate this information among your staff. 2.Driving in Winter During winter, it is likely that we will experience weather which may cause travel disruption. To make sure services are delivered and organisations continue to function, our advice is that both employers and employees should be as flexible as possible. Staff should make every effort to attend work, which may involve using different modes of transport. Staff should only avoid travelling if it is unsafe to do so. If staff are unable to work at alternative locations, including their own home, unpaid leave; flexi time; TOIL; or annual leave can be used. Staff should make sure they are equipped for any commuting and business journeys in vehicles, as winter weather requires specific preparation to assist in avoiding breakdowns. Road organisations have once again issued the following advice to make sure people stay safe on the roads throughout the winter months: • Get up 10 minutes earlier to prepare your car; • If the car is idle over a long period, turn the engine over regularly to give the battery a chance to revive; • Check windscreen wipers are working; • Ensure screen wash is topped up; • Check oil and coolant levels are correct; • Ensure there is enough fuel; • Clear snow from the roof of the car before driving; • Use air conditioning for faster demisting, and to reduce condensation on cold windows; • Make sure tyre pressures are correct. When temperatures drop this affects the pressure in tyres; • Tyres should have at least 3mm of tread for the winter and no less than 2mm; • Turn the heater fan down and switch the heated rear window off once windows are clear; • As the wintry weather can cause disruption on the roads with traffic jams, it is recommended that you keep a blanket, water, snacks, ice scraper/de-icer and screen wash in your car in case of emergencies. • Remember when driving in the snow, the stopping distance is 10 times longer.
Posted on: Sat, 20 Dec 2014 12:01:08 +0000
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