21 Nov Safety During the Silly Season: Keeping Construction Sites Safe in December

Keeping Construction Sites Safe in December

With December’s festive cheer comes unique challenges for Sydney’s construction industry. Known as the “silly season,” this time of year brings a relaxed atmosphere, but it also requires a heightened focus on safety. At HLH Group, we recognize the importance of stringent safety measures, especially during this season. Here’s how construction sites can stay safe while embracing the holiday spirit.

Balancing Festivity with Responsibility

December’s festive mood can create a more relaxed mindset — great for morale but potentially risky for safety. Construction sites demand continuous vigilance and balancing the holiday spirit with safety is essential. This means:

• Providing regular safety reminders
• Increasing supervision where needed
• Avoiding rushed deadlines to prevent accidents

With many companies under pressure to meet pre-Christmas deadlines, it’s essential to prioritize worker safety over urgency, as accidents are more likely to happen when workers are overextended.

Managing Seasonal Staffing Changes

During December, staffing levels may fluctuate as employees take leave. Temporary staff, often unfamiliar with site-specific risks, become vital to operations. Reliable labour hire ensures skilled temporary workers who can integrate smoothly into existing safety practices. At HLH Group, all workers undergo an additional safety induction, scoring 100% to confirm they’re prepared to uphold safety standards on site.

Adapting to Weather Conditions

Sydney’s December weather is unpredictable, often with extreme heat, leading to risks like heat stress and dehydration. To protect workers, site managers should:

• Regularly check forecasts and schedule breaks for water and shade.
• Adjust work hours to cooler parts of the day.
• Remind workers to use sun protection and PPE—sunscreen is essential, and it’s wise to bring your own, rather than relying on the site to provide it.

Alcohol Policy for Holiday Celebrations

The festive season often brings celebrations, but alcohol and construction sites don’t mix. Clear, zero-tolerance policies for alcohol are crucial, particularly around end-of-year events. Educating workers on these policies and the importance of avoiding alcohol on workdays reinforces safety.

Supporting Mental Health and Wellbeing

December can bring added stress, with pressures at work and home. Supporting mental health is key to overall safety on site. Providing resources, fostering an open-door policy, and encouraging conversations around mental health create a positive, supportive culture where workers feel comfortable seeking help if needed.

Keeping Construction Sites Safe in December

HLH Group remains dedicated to supporting Sydney’s construction industry with skilled labour committed to the highest safety standards. With a focus on these areas, we can enjoy the holiday season while ensuring that everyone stays safe on site.

We’re providing labour hire over Christmas so if you need labour hire support during the silly season, call us at (02) 8985 2019, email info@hlhgroup.com.au or contact us online.