Stay Safe in Cold, Wet Conditions

Now that we are halfway through the year we should think about how we negotiate our way through the colder months. The nature of our work already demands high levels of awareness and physical effort, and these cooler months add another layer of challenge.

To help you stay safe and well while working this winter, here are some top tips based on industry best practices and Safe Work Australia’s recommendations.

1. Dress for the Conditions

• Layer Up
Dressing in layers helps trap warmth and manage moisture. Start with a moisturewicking base layer, add an insulating mid-layer, and finish with a waterproof, windresistant outer shell (for those wet days). Layering up also allows you to regulate your temperature while working by removing a layer at a time as you warm up and the day heats up.

• Protect Your Extremities
As I’m sure you have experienced at some point, cold hands and feet not only feel miserable they can affect your grip and balance.

• High-Vis and Waterproofs
Visibility can reduce in winter conditions, with people hurrying about their business and not fully concentrating on what they are doing especially while driving. Make sure you’re wearing compliant high-visibility gear, and an investment in some good quality waterproof clothing will go a long way helping you to stay dry throughout the day.

2. Assess the Worksite Thoroughly

• Check the Weather Forecast
Cold fronts can move in quickly. Stay up to date with BOM forecasts and keep an ear out for any emergency call outs that might come through.

• Ground Conditions
Wet or slippery surfaces can be treacherous. Take care when walking or carrying equipment slips, trips, and falls are among the most common incidents reported in our industry.

• Tree Stability
Saturated soils can loosen root systems, making even large trees unexpectedly unstable. Always assess tree stability before beginning any climbing or rigging work. It is vital to check the ground around the base of the tree as much as it is to look up and assess the canopy

3. Equipment Care in the Wet

• Keep It Dry
Tools should be stored undercover when not in use to prevent rust, corrosion, and unnecessary wear.

• Fuel and Oils
Secure containers to prevent spills. A few drops of oil on a customer’s driveway in the wet can quickly become a PR nightmare. Make sure you have a spill kit on site with you in case a few drops of oil turns into a bigger problem.

• Ropes Are Lifelines
Always hang ropes to dry after use and keep them free from grit and moisture. Remember they’re called ‘lifelines’ for a reason and should be treated as such.

• Wear the Right PPE
Ensure you’re wearing all required personal protective equipment (PPE): helmets, hearing and eye protection, gloves (where appropriate), and cut-resistant clothing.

4. Follow Safe Work Australia Guidelines

Safe Work Australia provides clear guidance around working in extreme weather conditions. Cold exposure, wet environments, and manual handling risks all need to be managed as part of your workplace risk strategy. Key points include:

• Monitoring worker health and fatigue

• Providing shelter and warm-up areas where practical

• Modifying work tasks or schedules based on conditions

Visit safeworkaustralia.gov.au and search for working in extreme weather for more information.

5. Meet Tree Partner Safety Standards

• Risk Assessments
Before starting any job, conduct a proper prestart risk assessment. Look for site-specific hazards, particularly those that may be amplified by winter conditions.

• Training and Oversight
All team members should be trained in safe work practices and supervised accordingly, especially those still new to the industry. Working in wet conditions for a first time can be quite disheartening, keep an eye on all teammates and try to keep positive on site remember a hot coffee is never too far away.

6. Stay Hydrated and Rested

• Drink Water
It’s easy to forget in cooler weather, but dehydration is still a risk.

• Take Breaks
Cold conditions increase fatigue and decrease dexterity. Take regular breaks to warm up, refuel, and check in on your own condition and that of your work mates.

7. Be Ready for Emergencies

• First Aid Kit
Always have a well-stocked and accessible first aid kit on site and more importantly, make sure staff are qualified and know how to use it.

• First Aid Training
Aim to have at least two first-aid-trained staff per site. Ideally, all crew should be trained. A kit is only as good as the hands using it.

• Know Your Location
In an emergency, accurate location information is vital. Make sure everyone knows exactly where they’re working, especially in remote or rural areas. Consider using What 3 words when working in remote areas.

Following these guidelines and looking out for one another is a way we can keep our work safe, efficient, and professional, even when the weather’s doing its worst.

Stay safe.

Published: June 2025