Facilities and estates teams across the UK are beginning to prepare buildings for the colder months ahead. Yet while significant attention is given to the maintenance tasks that need to be completed, less consideration is often given to the systems that enable safe access in the first place. Tim Lee, Omega Red Group's Height Safety Technical Manager, explains why height safety should be part of every winter readiness strategy.
If I were to ask facilities managers how much time they spend thinking about guardrails, anchor points or roof walkways, the answer would probably be very little. There are gutters to clear, roofs to inspect and drainage systems to check, and these priorities often demand the full attention of facilities management professionals.
Yet one critical element of winter readiness is frequently overlooked: the condition of the height safety systems that make this work possible.
As long as inspections have been completed and certification is up to date, it can be easy to assume that height safety systems are ready for use. However, compliance should not be viewed as a one-off exercise. It should be the golden thread that runs throughout the entire service life of a height safety system.
Move beyond the 'one-off exercise' mindset
Many organisations only think about their height safety systems when an inspection becomes due or a defect is identified. The systems themselves can fade into the background, despite being relied upon by contractors and maintenance teams throughout the year.
The reality is that height safety systems are a vital part of a building’s infrastructure. They enable safe access to roofs and elevated work areas, support essential maintenance activities and help protect the people responsible for keeping buildings operational.
Safe access is fundamental. If guardrails, walkways, ladders or anchor points are compromised, essential maintenance activities can become more difficult and potentially more dangerous.
By taking a proactive approach to height safety, organisations can ensure that these systems remain fit for purpose whenever they are needed.
Don't ignore the small issues
Like any asset exposed to the elements, height safety equipment can deteriorate over time.
Corrosion, weathering, loose fixings, storm damage and general wear and tear can all affect the condition and performance of a system. Whilst these issues may not be immediately visible, they can have a significant impact on safety if not addressed.
Regular reviews help identify potential problems early, allowing remedial work to be planned before minor defects develop into larger risks.
Understand the impact of winter weather
Temperature fluctuations, prolonged rainfall, high winds and freeze-thaw cycles can place additional stress on buildings and the systems attached to them. These conditions can contribute to material movement, corrosion and increased strain on height safety equipment and its fixings.
Protecting people means protecting operations
The benefits of a well-maintained height safety system extend beyond compliance and safety.
When maintenance teams can access work areas safely and efficiently, essential tasks are more likely to be completed on schedule. This helps reduce operational disruption and minimises the likelihood of costly emergency repairs.
Take a proactive approach
Height safety systems should be treated as critical infrastructure rather than a box-ticking exercise.
Organisations that regularly review the condition, suitability and compliance of their access systems are often better positioned to manage risk, maintain business continuity and support safe working practices throughout the year.
After all, your roof is only as safe as the systems protecting those who access it.
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This practical checklist will help you identify potential risks, maintain compliance and assess whether your height safety systems are prepared for the challenges winter can bring.
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