Northamptonshire Amalgamated
Northamptonshire Amalgamated
Dear Colleagues
Severe
Weather and Heavy Snow
We are receiving mixed messages in relation to local managements’
approach to dealing with the severe weather, snow and ice; which varies from
exceptionally good in many cases to totally irresponsible in others. Prior to
the worst of the recent weather hitting the UK, the H,S&E Department
requested a review of the Severe Weather Policy and the issuing of fresh clear
Safety Guidance, putting worker safety and wellbeing 'First' as per the Royal
Mail Safety Policy. A response is still awaited.
I attach copies of previous LTBs 076/09, LTB 077/09 LTB 099/09 last
issued on this subject for info. Could ASRs run a check in their Areas and
Regions to see if management are dealing with the situation sensibly in hard-hit
areas or stupidly! Could ASRs
also check whether proper risk assessments are being carried out along with
proper consultation with safety reps (ASRs & WSRs) and report back to this
department.
People working in BT should
refer to the BT Health and Safety Handbook. Detailed below is appropriate advice
on Driving in Winter, Watch Your Step, and Snow and Ice.
“Part 1 - Driving in Winter
Winter is here - Drive Safely
We are facing some of the most uncertain weather patterns on record.
There is no doubt that bad weather and longer nights pose a danger - with about
50% of all reported road traffic collisions at night occurring in wet
conditions; even though in the
Between
Now is therefore a good time to focus on staying safe on the road this
winter - whether you are driving on work business or in your own time. Before
you Drive Driving in winter weather - falling leaves, snow, ice, wet and cold -
creates a great challenge for vehicles and drivers. Keeping yourself and your
vehicle in good technical repair reduces your overall chances of any mishap or
disaster while driving in winter weather.
To prepare your vehicle for winter driving give it a complete check-up -
electrical system (battery, ignition and lights); brakes; tyres; exhaust;
wipers; fluids, radiator/antifreeze and heating/cooling system. Keep your fuel
tank near to full to ensure that you do not run out. It is particularly
important to check your tyres are in good order, and have plenty of tread depth.
Recent research has shown that effective well maintained tyres can have a major
effect on stopping distances on wet and slippery roads. Weekly checks, or when
refuelling, are recommended. In really extreme weather, prepare an emergency kit
for your car. Include items that cater for the unexpected - what would you need
if you found yourself stranded miles from help during a snow storm? Include
items like warm clothing, boots, gloves or mittens, flashlight with fresh
batteries, blankets, and fresh first-aid supplies.
During bad weather let people know where you are going, your route of
travel, and when you expect to arrive. Plan your driving and likely arrival time
in advance. Never drive if fatigued or under the influence of alcohol. Allow for
extra travelling time or even consider delaying a trip if the weather is
inclement. Is an alternative method of travel possible? Listen to weather
forecasts, and if weather and visibility are hazardous, ask yourself 'is this
trip really necessary?' On the Road Drive according to current road and weather
conditions. Whenever driving conditions are less than ideal, it pays to be
cautious. Make sure that all windows (front, side and rear) and mirrors are
clear and that wipers and defrosters are in good working condition.
Drive slowly with low beam headlights on if visibility is poor, test your
brakes frequently, leave a bigger gap and never tailgate. Posted speed limits
are for ideal travel conditions. Driving at reduced speeds, in a lower gear and
at a safe distance from the vehicle in front are the best precautionary measures
against any misfortune while driving on slippery roads. Lengthen your following
distance behind the vehicle ahead of you - stopping distances double on slippery
roads.
If the Worst Happens
If you get stranded, don't panic. Keep yourself safe, and follow the
detailed procedures in your BT driver's handbook if you are in a work vehicle.
In your own vehicle you should contact the appropriate support organisation,
such as the RAC and follow their guidance. Safe Driving this Winter Remember to
make sure you and your vehicle are in top condition; plan your journeys and
adapt your driving style to allow for the road and weather conditions. More
detailed winter driving advice is available at (www.thinkroadsafety.gov.uk) and (www.brake.org.uk).
Part 2 - Watch Your Step
Winters have been generally mild recently but we should always expect a
certain exposure to ice and snow before the spring. Taking care and being
vigilant applies equally on our way to work and at work. When outside we need to
be extra vigilant when the weather is or has been poor. Snow can mask
obstructions and trip hazards, compounded on occasions by the presence of ice
underneath the snow. Try to keep to a well-defined route and areas that have
been treated when ice and / or snow is present.
It is of course important to take care when inside a building
particularly when it is wet and people may have brought snow or mud into the
entrance areas to buildings. Working in the external engineering network during
bad weather brings its own problems. Hazards such as undulating surfaces and
drains or holes are not as obvious when covered by snow or leaves. Care is
always needed and when working in rural areas, local knowledge can be
particularly relevant, holes created by wildlife e.g. rabbits and badgers may be
present when away from defined routes, always tread with caution when you cannot
see the ground surface. The type of footwear worn is an important factor when
avoiding slips and minimising injuries. Protective footwear designed for
external work not only provides protection to the toes it also ensures that a
good sole and tread helps maintain grip on poor surfaces. The wearing of a boot
gives additional ankle support. If you are issued with protective footwear
always wear it for the purpose it was issued. All people should consider wearing
appropriate footwear when the weather is bad; fashion footwear rarely affords
the necessary grip and support when conditions outside are poor.
Part 3 - Snow and Ice Clearance
Check to make sure that the local supplies of salt are adequate and request more
if these stocks become depleted by contacting BT Property on 0800 223388.
BT Property (Tel: 0800 22 33 88) provide a proactive
snow & ice clearance service to a number of nominated operational sites in
Conditions underfoot in winter can be hazardous and
assessing the state of all work sites is important to ensure that plant and
equipment will not slip, and of course it assists you in being well prepared and
reduces the risk of an accident.
During strong winds keep clothing buttoned up,
especially when working above ground, to stop it ballooning out in the wind. In
ice and snow, clear any loose snow from where you are going to work and, if
needed, use rock salt to melt any frost or ice. Footwear can become clogged with
mud or snow, especially in rural sites. Before climbing a ladder inspect the
soles of your protective footwear and scrape off as much as possible. This will
stop the mud from sticking on the rungs and becoming a slip hazard.
Pumping out water from an underground structure
could result in an area becoming unsafe especially in icy or wintry conditions
so carry out this practice with caution. Remember this could affect members of
the public and road users. Do not carry any lighted portable appliance in a
vehicle unless expressly approved or installed for the purpose. Never attempt to
thaw out a pump or petrol driven equipment with a naked flame. Check hoses for
cracks caused by sub zero temperatures.
Cold weather can make muscles tighten up. If you
need to undertake manual handling activities always consider using a mechanical
aid. If you have to lift, perhaps one or two stretches of the arms, legs and
back will increase your body’s defence against a pulled muscle or a strain.
Each building will have an individual snow/ice plan
depending on the risks associated with that building
• Monteray should be delivering against the criteria set down by BT for the
management of sites during this weather. This criterion is detailed within
the snow and ice policy for the building.
• The plan is located on the main building notice board and is reviewed every
year and updated where any change occurs.
• On behalf of BT, Monteray are not required to grit whole areas of car parks,
but if/where there are areas clearly requiring additional attention- again this
will be detailed in the plan.
• In most buildings there will be an element of individual responsibility and
gritting facilities will be provided.
• Access areas to and from buildings (i.e. footpaths) will be gritted
• It is vital that in difficult conditions we all ensure we take extra care
and are extra vigilant.
If additional grit is required this can be obtained by calling BT Property on
0800 223388.
Between
Now is therefore a good time to focus on staying safe on the road this winter
– whether you are driving on work business or in your own time.
Driving in winter weather – falling leaves, snow,
ice, wet and cold - creates a great challenge for vehicles and drivers. Keeping
yourself and your vehicle in good technical repair reduces your overall chances
of any mishap or disaster while driving in winter weather.
To prepare your vehicle for winter driving give it a
complete check-up - electrical system (battery, ignition and lights); brakes;
tyres; exhaust; wipers; fluids, radiator/antifreeze and heating/cooling system.
Keep your fuel tank near to full to ensure that you do not run out.
It is particularly important to check your tyres are in good order, and have
plenty of tread depth. Recent research has shown that effective well maintained
tyres can have a major effect on stopping distances on wet and slippery roads.
Weekly checks, or when refuelling, are recommended.
In really extreme weather, prepare an emergency kit
for your car. Include things that cater for the unexpected - what would you need
if you found yourself stranded miles from help during a snow storm? Include
things like warm clothing, boots, gloves or mittens, flashlight with fresh
batteries, blankets, and fresh first-aid supplies.
During bad weather let people know where you are
going, your route of travel, and when you expect to arrive. Plan your driving
and likely arrival time in advance. Never drive if fatigued or under the
influence of alcohol. Allow for extra travelling time or even consider delaying
a trip if the weather is inclement. Is an alternative method of travel possible?
Listen to weather forecasts, and if weather and visibility are hazardous, ask
yourself - ‘is this trip really necessary?’
The Health Safety and
Environment Department will continue to monitor the position.
Yours sincerely
Dave
Joyce
National
Health, Safety & Environment Officer
Att.
|
No.
076/’09 |
|
Date:
|
To: All Branches
Dear
Colleague
As Branches will know much
of the
London Transport suspended its bus services
because of dangerous conditions on the roads. On the Underground, 10 out of
the 11 Tube lines are either completely or partially suspended. Many Train
services linking
Parts of the motorway network in the south east
have ground to a halt and there were a number of crashes in the early
hours. The AA has warned motorists to stay off the roads. Many businesses were closed
down for the day as workers struggled to make journeys in on icy roads and
without public transport.
Royal Mail Letters Central Postal Control
confirmed to the CWU Health, Safety & Environment Department that a
"Safety First Approach" would be adopted and advice was issued just
after midnight on Monday Morning 2 February via an Opsflash [CPC (2009)
009] entitled "Safety and Weather Conditions". The Opsflash was
for the immediate attention of and action where appropriate by, all RM UK
Operations and RM shift managers and senior manager on duty who were made
responsible for ensuring the information was cascaded immediately to all
managers on duty as necessary, within processing, distribution and delivery
functions.
The message was that in light of this
adverse weather, all offices were to consider additional staff briefings to
promote Royal Mail’s safety policies and advise staff to take extra care
on delivery, collections and any other outdoor or driving duties. Where
appropriate, yards and paths were to be gritted, etc. The Royal Mail "Severe
Weather Policy" wwas also made available for implementation. Further
to this the Opps Flash stressed that heavy snow would in many areas make
driving conditions poor and consideration should be
given to conditions before setting out in road vehicles.
By Monday morning CPC confirmed that the worst
hit areas were
See
attached for your information and reference copies of RML Opsflash
[CPC (2009) 009] "Safety and Weather Conditions" and a copy of
the latest version of the Severe Weather Policy.
National
Health, Safety & Environment Officer
|
No.
077/’09 |
|
Date:
|
To: All Branches
Dear
Colleague
Following the information
supplied to Branches in LTB 076/09, many parts of the
The Health Safety and
Environment Dept would welcome feedback from Postal Branches and/or Branch ASRs
in relation to the Severe Weather Policy, and its implementation in their Areas.
People working in BT should
refer to the BT Health and Safety Handbook. Detailed below is appropriate advice
on Driving in Winter, Watch Your Step, and Snow and Ice.
Part 1 - Driving in Winter
Winter is here - Drive Safely
We are facing some of the most uncertain weather
patterns on record. There is no doubt that bad weather and longer nights pose a
danger - with about 50% of all reported road traffic collisions at night
occurring in wet conditions; even though in the
Between
Now is therefore a good time to focus on staying safe
on the road this winter - whether you are driving on work business or in your
own time. Before you Drive Driving in winter weather - falling leaves, snow,
ice, wet and cold - creates a great challenge for vehicles and drivers. Keeping
yourself and your vehicle in good technical repair reduces your overall chances
of any mishap or disaster while driving in winter weather.
To prepare your vehicle for winter driving give it a
complete check-up - electrical system (battery, ignition and lights); brakes;
tyres; exhaust; wipers; fluids, radiator/antifreeze and heating/cooling system.
Keep your fuel tank near to full to ensure that you do not run out. It is
particularly important to check your tyres are in good order, and have plenty of
tread depth. Recent research has shown that effective well maintained tyres can
have a major effect on stopping distances on wet and slippery roads. Weekly
checks, or when refuelling, are recommended. In really extreme weather, prepare
an emergency kit for your car. Include items that cater for the unexpected -
what would you need if you found yourself stranded miles from help during a snow
storm? Include items like warm clothing, boots, gloves or mittens, flashlight
with fresh batteries, blankets, and fresh first-aid supplies.
During bad weather let people know where you are going,
your route of travel, and when you expect to arrive. Plan your driving and
likely arrival time in advance. Never drive if fatigued or under the influence
of alcohol. Allow for extra travelling time or even consider delaying a trip if
the weather is inclement. Is an alternative method of travel possible? Listen to
weather forecasts, and if weather and visibility are hazardous, ask yourself 'is
this trip really necessary?' On the Road Drive according to current road and
weather conditions. Whenever driving conditions are less than ideal, it pays to
be cautious. Make sure that all windows (front, side and rear) and mirrors are
clear and that wipers and defrosters are in good working condition.
Drive slowly with low beam headlights on if visibility
is poor, test your brakes frequently, leave a bigger gap and never tailgate.
Posted speed limits are for ideal travel conditions. Driving at reduced speeds,
in a lower gear and at a safe distance from the vehicle in front are the best
precautionary measures against any misfortune while driving on slippery roads.
Lengthen your following distance behind the vehicle ahead of you - stopping
distances double on slippery roads.
If the Worst Happens
If you get stranded, don't panic. Keep yourself safe, and follow the detailed
procedures in your BT driver's handbook if you are in a work vehicle. In your
own vehicle you should contact the appropriate support organisation, such as the
RAC and follow their guidance. Safe Driving this Winter Remember to make sure
you and your vehicle are in top condition; plan your journeys and adapt your
driving style to allow for the road and weather conditions. More detailed winter
driving advice is available at (www.thinkroadsafety.gov.uk)
and (www.brake.org.uk).
Part 2 - Watch Your Step
Winters have been generally mild recently but we should
always expect a certain exposure to ice and snow before the spring. Taking care
and being vigilant applies equally on our way to work and at work. When outside
we need to be extra vigilant when the weather is or has been poor. Snow can mask
obstructions and trip hazards, compounded on occasions by the presence of ice
underneath the snow. Try to keep to a well-defined route and areas that have
been treated when ice and / or snow is present.
It is of course important to take care when inside a building particularly when
it is wet and people may have brought snow or mud into the entrance areas to
buildings. Working in the external engineering network during bad weather brings
its own problems. Hazards such as undulating surfaces and drains or holes are
not as obvious when covered by snow or leaves. Care is always needed and when
working in rural areas, local knowledge can be particularly relevant, holes
created by wildlife e.g. rabbits and badgers may be present when away from
defined routes, always tread with caution when you cannot see the ground
surface. The type of footwear worn is an important factor when avoiding slips
and minimising injuries. Protective footwear designed for external work not only
provides protection to the toes it also ensures that a good sole and tread helps
maintain grip on poor surfaces. The wearing of a boot gives additional ankle
support. If you are issued with protective footwear always wear it for the
purpose it was issued. All people should consider wearing appropriate footwear
when the weather is bad; fashion footwear rarely affords the necessary grip and
support when conditions outside are poor.
Part
3 - Snow and Ice Clearance
All
people
We are entering the time of year when snow and ice are predictable. Please
ensure that arrangements are in place to make external operational areas safe by
having salt available for use in yards, traffic and pedestrian routes. Check to
make sure that the local supplies of salt are adequate and request more if these
stocks become depleted by contacting BT Property on 0800 223388.
BT Property provides a pro-active snow and ice clearance service to a
limited number of nominated operational sites in
For all other locations a “self help” policy exists. Many operational
buildings with low occupancy levels do not have formal arrangements for salting
the access routes. BT people and contractors who are based in, garage vehicles
at, or visit such locations are requested to apply the salt to areas of the
yards in most use. It is important that all BT people and agents work together
locally to ensure that the salt is spread as early as possible if injuries and
incidents are to be prevented.
Those who require salting grit for use whilst working in the field should
use the stores procedure for obtaining grit and not the estate management
process.
The Health Safety and
Environment Dept will continue to monitor the position, with the severe weather
moving northwards, and forecasters warning some areas could face fresh snow
later in the week
Dave Joyce
National
Health, Safety & Environment Officer
|
No.
099/’09 |
|
Date:
|
To: All Branches
Dear
Colleague
LTBs 76/09 and 77/09 dated 3rd February reported
that many parts of the UK were struggling with a two days of disruption
following the heaviest snowfalls in 18 years and provided information to
Branches and Safety Representatives on the measures being taken by Royal Mail
Letters (RML) and BT.
A copy of the current RML Severe Weather Policy and the RML Opsflash [CPC
(2009) 009] "Safety and Weather Conditions" was circulated to CWU
Branches for reference and use by Branch Reps and Area Safety Representatives.
The Health Safety and Environment Dept would welcome any feedback from Postal
Branches and/or Branch ASRs in relation to the Severe Weather Policy, and its
implementation in their Areas as we intend to review the Policy at a later date
to discuss if there is a need for any amendments and improvements. We have noted
the need to make more detailed reference to Network Distribution and for
Parcelforce to adopt a similar formal Policy.
Reports and feedback being received from ASRs so far is that local
Managers have been applying the measures set out in the Severe Weather Policy
and Opsflah instructions sensibly and pragmatically, conducting Risk Assessments
and adopting a Risk Control based approach in consultation with Safety
Representatives with a small number of exceptions which have been resolved by
referring matters to more senior management.
The Health Safety & Environment Department has been in daily contact
with Royal Mail Network Management Central Postal Control and Pacelforce
Worldwide Operations.
Bother Royal Mail Letters and Parcelforce Worldwide have confirmed to the
CWU Health, Safety & Environment Department a commitment to a prudent
"Safety First Approach" being adopted.
"Safety and Weather Conditions" advice was issued by RML
Central Postal Control on Monday via Opsflash for the immediate attention and
action of all Managers, within processing, distribution and delivery functions
to consider staff briefings to promote Royal Mail's safety policies and advise
staff on whether operations would proceed or not and where they did to take
extra care on delivery, collections and any other outdoor or driving duties.
Where appropriate, yards and paths were to be gritted and the Royal Mail Letters
"Severe Weather Policy" was to be implemented. The Ops Flash stressed
that heavy snow would in many areas make driving conditions poor and
consideration should be given to conditions before sending vehicles out on the
road.
The result was that the worst hit areas of Essex, Kent, Surrey, West
London and surrounding areas in the South East as well as some other areas had
Royal Mail Vehicles snowbound stuck in yards and in many areas no collections
took place and no van deliveries were made. Also in the worst areas Distribution
and Mail Centre HGVs did not go out on the roads. Drivers were temporarily
redeployed on indoor work.
Parcelforce confirmed that around 15 sites were closed on Monday and a
similar number in the
As you will know more heavy snowfalls hit the
Amid the further snow storms and travel disruption estimates from various
organisations are that about five million people took the day off work yesterday
and six million had stayed at home on Monday.
More snow may be on the way say forecasters and the cold weather is set
to continue for a few more days to come. The figures were announced as rail
services were hit for a second day, affecting routes including those into
The Highways Agency repeated warning for motorists to take care on the
roads on yesterday, today and ahead of Friday morning. Drivers are advised to
check the road and weather conditions before setting out, and to drive with care
in affected areas.
<http://uk.messages.news.yahoo.com/UK/forumview?bn=UKN-UK-Employment&e=uXOnfO7JeHmB9t4QZ7UMWtp1kMpX1BXvgmUJgEpUUii7FyYSpUTXu5MRqtBDzqvM2XEe4w5Ki.M80dgstzzAqT1dt8ulaA-->
Motorists and Fleet Operators were again warned to take extra care after snow
blocked many roads and snow on the roads turned to ice, making driving
conditions treacherous. On the roads, driving conditions are particularly
dangerous on the M4 and M5 in Wiltshire. The Army was called in to help rescue
hundreds of motorists trapped by blizzards on a road in
RML Central Postal Control
(CPC) confirmed yesterday that due to the heavy snowfalls and poor weather which
hit the
An hourly update was being
issued by CPC detailing which sites have access or despatching problems and the
situation at Vehicle Operating Centres (VOCs). NDC,
Due to the fleets of salt spreaders and snow ploughs working flat out to
keep the major roads clear of ice and snow and continuing until conditions
improve, there is also growing concern over dwindling supplies of salt and grit
to treat icy roads. Many local authorities running out of salt to treat roads
and stocks nearly depleted in some areas. Royal Mail informed us today that
Royal Mail Group’s main suppliers along with other suppliers have been told to
give priority to the Highways Agency in order to grit major
"prioritising" remaining stocks in order to focus on the most
important roads. The Highways Agency will have priority over and above Local
Authorities who are responsible for minor roads with organisations and companies
last in the queue. Royal Mail have
flagged up the potential problem this may cause with gritting yards and that
Mail Centre and Distribution Centre yards will be prioritised where we have HGVs
in the yards. This shortage if not addressed by suppliers could cause potential
problems with clearing and making safe yards and therefore it has been agreed
that Senior Managers with work with and consult Area Safety Representatives on
the best way of making yards and building access/egress as safe as possible.
The outlook for the weekend remains wintry with more rain, sleet and snow
forecast for parts of the