Spring Safety: Preparing Your Workplace for the Seasonal Shift

Heather Lyle
Apr 16
3 min read

As the snow melts and warmer temperatures return, spring in Canada brings a welcome change—but it also introduces a unique set of workplace safety risks. From wet and slippery surfaces to temperature fluctuations and seasonal work ramp-ups, now is the perfect time to re-evaluate your health and safety practices.

Here’s how your workplace can stay safe, proactive, and prepared as we transition into the new season.

1. Spring Housekeeping: Clean, Clear, and Safe

With winter winding down, the effects of salt, snow, and debris can linger—especially in entryways, walkways, and outdoor areas.

Key housekeeping tips:

Remove leftover salt, sand, and debris from floors and outdoor surfaces.
Inspect and clean gutters, drains, and exterior walkways to prevent pooling water and slips.
Repair any winter damage to flooring, stairs, and handrails.
Refresh signage for wet floors or temporary hazards due to thawing.

A clean, well-maintained environment reduces the risk of slips, trips, and falls—one of the most common workplace injuries.

2. Review and Refresh PPE

With changing temperatures and working conditions, it's important to reassess your personal protective equipment (PPE) needs.

Consider the following:

Switch from insulated winter gear to breathable, weather-appropriate PPE.
Ensure waterproof footwear is available where necessary.
Replace any PPE that was worn out over the winter season.
Double-check fit and comfort—especially for gloves, outerwear, and headgear.

This is also a great time to provide training refreshers on proper PPE use and care.

3. Watch for Seasonal Hazards

Spring weather can be unpredictable—fluctuating between sunshine, rain, and even the occasional snowstorm. These conditions can create safety concerns, especially for outdoor and transitional work.

Stay alert for:

Wet and icy surfaces during early morning shifts when temperatures are still low.
Flooding or pooling water near entrances, basements, or parking areas.
Loose or unstable ground on construction or landscaping sites due to thawing.
Increased wildlife or pests emerging from hibernation or nesting near worksites.

Encourage workers to report hazards immediately and ensure all risk assessments reflect current seasonal conditions.

4. Restart Seasonal Equipment Safely

Spring often signals the return of equipment use in landscaping, construction, maintenance, and outdoor work.

Before use:

Inspect machinery and tools for wear, damage, or corrosion from winter storage.
Test all safety features, brakes, lights, and guards.
Confirm that all operators are trained and authorized to use the equipment.

A pre-use checklist and proper startup procedures can prevent accidents and extend the life of your tools.

5. Communicate & Stay Prepared

As always, good communication is at the heart of a safe workplace. Use toolbox talks, staff meetings, or safety bulletins to update your team on seasonal changes, procedures, and potential hazards.

Bonus tip: Spring is also a great time to review your emergency preparedness plans. With flooding risks and seasonal storms, ensure your team knows what to do in the event of an emergency.

Final Thoughts

Spring is a season of renewal—and that includes your workplace safety practices. By addressing seasonal hazards, updating PPE, and keeping safety top of mind, you can help ensure a smooth and secure transition into the warmer months.

Let’s embrace the season safely and responsibly!

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