During the winter months changes in the external environment, fewer hours of daylight and changing weather conditions bring their own risks. We all need to make sure we are prepared. There are a number of simple actions you can take to make sure you stay safe.

Adverse weather

Severe weather can cause a range of problems particularly to travel and transport systems and we recognise that adverse weather conditions can prevent staff from reaching work locations. Weather conditions can change quickly, so it is essential to keep up-to-date with the latest weather forecasts and weather warnings from the Met Office and real-time journey information available from Traffic Scotland.

Plan ahead and allow extra time for your journey. Avoid getting into the situation where you are taking risks on the road just to gain a few minutes.

If there is a forecast for adverse weather it may be more appropriate not to drive. If it is unsafe to drive you should discuss the requirements of the business with your Line Manager and agree an alternative approach. Employees should not expect or be expected to drive if isn't considered safe.

Travel to and from work

You are expected to make all reasonable efforts to attend your normal place of work. Consider alternative means of transport even if this may take longer; for example, walking, train or bus where you would normally have driven. If possible, you could also consider working from another, closer office location. If adverse weather prevents this then you should contact your Line Manager or another manager in your business area and make them aware of your situation. While employees are expected to make all reasonable efforts to come to work we do not expect staff to compromise their own wellbeing by attempting to get to work when it is genuinely unsafe to do so. More information can be found in the Council's Adverse Weather Policy.

Travelling on official business

As at any time of year you should consider alternatives to travelling like telephone or video conferencing. In the event of adverse weather conditions, or where adverse weather is forecast, you should only make arrangements to travel where it is absolutely necessary. It is important to check conditions shortly before your journey is due to start.

Hints and tips for keeping you and your vehicle safe in wintry conditions

• Check your tyre pressure regularly; especially when temperatures start to drop. Cold winter temperatures will typically reduce your tyre pressure
• Check your tyre tread depth regularly; the minimum tread for tyres should be 5mm for winter.
• Get your battery checked. Cold weather starts make the vehicle battery work much harder.
• Make sure that your wiper blades are in good condition to fully clear your windscreen
• Add anti-freeze to the radiator and winter additive to the windscreen washer bottles
• Keep the windscreen, washers, mirrors and lights clean and clear of snow and ice
• Clear all snow and ice from your vehicle and trailer. This will help avoid sheets of ice flying off the vehicle and creating difficulties for vehicle behind.

Personal Safety

The hazards faced by staff outside of the office after dark are often the same as those during the day. But poor visibility and quieter streets can increase the risks to staff; particularly to those required to work on their own. There are a number of steps you can take to safeguard your wellbeing:

• Let someone know where you are going and when you are expected to arrive.
• Ensure your mobile phone is charged and updated with useful numbers like local taxi firms.

If you are walking:

• stick to well-lit, busy areas whenever possible where you can be clearly seen and where you can clearly see other people. Never be tempted to take a risky short cut through parks, alleyways or car parks.
• always be aware of your surroundings and the people around you. Using your mobile phone or listening to music can be distracting. The sooner you become aware of potential danger, the easier it is to avoid it. It also advertises that you have something worth stealing.

Above all, trust your instincts. If you feel uneasy about anything don't tell yourself it's fine and don't wait for your fears to be confirmed. Get away from the situation or get help as quickly as possible.

It is important to report if something happens to you using the Accident/Incident Reporting form HR14. It provides us with an opportunity to learn from what has happened and take any action to help prevent any future recurrence.

You have a responsibility for your own health and safety so it's important to plan ahead and be prepared.