- 1 April 2025
Winter’s coming - Here Are Some Tips for Tradies That’ll Help You Face the Rain, Cold, and Tough Conditions Ahead
As you know, wet weather can create some pretty hairy safety hazards on site, delay work, and damage materials. So, it's important that the right precautions are taken, especially since tradies make up 58% of workplace injuries in Australia.
Here’s what you need to keep in mind to make sure your site can stay on track when the sky opens up:
Manage Hazards
You don’t have to be an expert to know water and construction don’t mix. So, to make the site safe, you’ll need to take into account for:
- Slippery Surfaces – Rain creates slippery scaffolding, ladders, and platforms, increasing the risk of slips and falls. Use non-slip materials and ensure surfaces are as dry as possible.
- Electrical Safety – When there's exposed wiring and power tools, it’s essential to make sure you’ve got waterproof coverings and ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs).
- Reduced Visibility – Fog, mist, and heavy rain can make it harder to see hazards, signals, and workers. Popping on high-vis clothing and having proper lighting will help maintain safety.
- Unstable Ground and Mud Risks – Even a bit of rain can turn solid ground into a muddy mess, so lay down gravel on walkways for traction, and mark hazardous areas.
Work Delays and Productivity Challenges
With the right precautions, rainy days don’t have to bring construction to a screaming halt. Good site management and some common sense can keep things running smoothly. It’s best to have a plan for the following:
- Concrete and Paint Delays – Wet weather slows drying times and affects structural integrity. Cover materials and allow for extended curing times.
- Excavation Issues – Waterlogged soil increases the risk of trench collapses. Use pumps to manage water buildup and reinforce trenches.
- Tool and Machinery Protection – Rain can damage engines, electrical components, and hydraulics. Store machinery in covered areas and use water-resistant covers.
- Material Storage – Timber, cement, and plasterboard absorb moisture, leading to warping and degradation. Keep materials dry with tarps and where possible, in elevated storage.
- Schedule Adjustments – Some tasks simply can’t be done safely in wet conditions. Plan ahead for possible delays and adjust work sequences accordingly.
Prevention is the Best Practice
For all your wet-weather needs, Mitre 10 has the gear, tools, and materials to keep your job site running smoothly and safely. If you’re looking to prevent any issues or accidents, we recommend considering:
- Drainage and Runoff Control – You can prevent flooding with proper site grading, drainage channels, and water pumps.
- Temporary Coverings – Tarps and temporary roofing protect materials and work areas from damage.
- Worker Safety and Comfort – Waterproof clothing, gloves, and non-slip boots keep workers dry and safe.
- Traffic and Machinery Control – Wet, muddy paths can make vehicle movement difficult. Gravel pathways and regular maintenance prevent bogging.
- Emergency Planning – Weather changes fast, so have a plan in place to keep your crew informed and safe.
Get The Full Picture
When in doubt, you can refer to the Safe Work Australia guidelines for managing risks of working in hazardous weather to ensure legal and safety requirements are always met on site.
