Weather Emergency Plans
The Problem
Severe weather events such as high winds, lightning, and flash floods can occur suddenly, posing serious risks to workers and equipment. Without a coordinated response plan, these events can lead to injuries, damage, and chaos. Today, we’ll discuss how to prepare for, respond to, and recover from weather emergencies in line with WorkSafe New Zealand guidelines.
Identify the Hazards
- Sudden Severe Weather: High winds, lightning strikes, flash flooding, and heavy rain.
- Delayed or Poor Communication: Inability to alert workers in time.
- Inadequate Sheltering: Lack of suitable or prepared shelter locations.
- Unsecured Equipment: Tools and materials becoming airborne in high winds.
- Improper Recovery: Returning to work before hazards are fully managed.
Safety Practices and Preventative Measures
Weather Monitoring Systems:
- Use MetService alerts, weather apps, and site-based observation.
- Assign monitoring responsibilities:
- Site Supervisor: Primary monitor
- Health & Safety Coordinator: Secondary monitor
- Team Leads: Report field observations
- Site Supervisor: Primary monitor
- Monitor for trigger conditions: wind gusts over 40 km/h, thunderstorm warnings, flood alerts.
Warning System Protocols:
- Emergency Alert Levels:
- Level 1 – Advisory: Continue work but monitor closely.
- Level 2 – Prepare to Evacuate: Secure tools, stop high-risk activities.
- Level 3 – Evacuate or Shelter Immediately
- Level 1 – Advisory: Continue work but monitor closely.
- Alert Methods:
- 3 Horn Blasts: Begin securing and shutting down.
- Continuous Horn: Seek shelter immediately.
- Flashing Beacon/Strobe: Lightning danger.
- Radio/Verbal Call: “Weather Red” signals evacuation.
- 3 Horn Blasts: Begin securing and shutting down.
Emergency Shelter Specifications:
- Identify primary shelter locations (e.g., site office, designated container units).
- Ensure shelters are stocked with:
- First aid kits, torches, battery-powered radios, bottled water, emergency blankets.
- First aid kits, torches, battery-powered radios, bottled water, emergency blankets.
- Keep access clear at all times.
Communication Framework:
- Create an emergency contact structure:
- Emergency Coordinator (radio channel 1)
- Site Supervisors (channel 2)
- First Aid and H&S Team (channel 3)
- Emergency Coordinator (radio channel 1)
- Use two-way radios and backup devices (cellphones, air horns).
- Keep records: incident logs, muster reports, equipment status forms.
Equipment Security Procedures:
- Stop use of cranes, elevated work platforms, and power tools.
- Secure loose items, tie down materials, isolate power sources.
- Document safety checks with forms and photos.
Recovery Operations:
- Conduct post-storm site inspections:
- Structural checks, machinery integrity, slips/trip hazards.
- Structural checks, machinery integrity, slips/trip hazards.
- Resume work only after the all-clear from Site Manager.
- Test and certify equipment before restarting operations.
Real-Life Case or Scenario
During a storm last winter, unsecured roofing materials were blown from a partially covered structure. Workers were unaware of the incoming storm due to lack of alerts. Thankfully, no one was injured, but the event caused significant damage. A basic site-wide emergency procedure and proper equipment securing would have prevented the incident.
Employee Responsibilities
- Monitor weather and follow evacuation/shelter instructions.
- Know the shelter locations and how to access them.
- Secure equipment and report issues.
- Participate in emergency drills.
Employer Responsibilities
- Provide reliable weather monitoring methods.
- Maintain and supply adequate emergency shelters.
- Train all personnel on the severe weather response plan.
- Conduct and review emergency response drills.
Discussion & Questions
- Where is your nearest designated shelter?
- What are the site’s warning signals, and what do they mean?
- What is your role during a Level 3 emergency?
- When did you last participate in a drill?
Commitment/Action Plan
Let’s commit to staying alert to changing weather and responding quickly and safely. Starting today, take time to familiarise yourself with shelter locations, the emergency response plan, and equipment securing procedures.
Wrap-Up
Weather-related emergencies can escalate fast, but with preparation, training, and clear communication, we can manage them safely. Thanks for making safety a top priority.
Standards Overview
WorkSafe NZ requires workplaces to:
- Have an Emergency Plan covering severe weather (as per the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015).
- Conduct risk assessments for environmental hazards.
- Train workers and maintain emergency response readiness. These standards exist to safeguard workers and reduce harm during weather-related incidents.
Disclaimer
These toolbox talks are provided for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional legal, health and safety, or regulatory advice.
The content reflects recognised best practices and general industry standards as at the date of publication. However, it may not be applicable to all workplace environments or specific operational contexts.
It is the responsibility of the Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU), as well as officers, workers, and other duty holders under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA), to ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and WorkSafe New Zealand guidance.
The authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk disclaim all liability for any loss, damage, or injury arising from the use or reliance on the information provided. Users should seek advice from a suitably qualified health and safety professional or legal advisor for guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.
Always follow your organisation’s policies, procedures, and safe work practices to manage risks and maintain a safe and healthy workplace.
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