Your construction project might face some hurdles during the colder months, and it is best to prepare for the worst. The construction industry has a reputation as a fair-weather industry. With an increase in builders’ risk during the winter due to snow and ice, it seems logical that construction work is more prevalent in warmer weather. Working in construction during the winter season does pose some risks.
Creating a Plan for Your Construction Project
Understand those hazards and prepare accordingly.
Precipitation Increases Builders’ Risk in Winter
During the winter, rain, snow, and ice can create slippery, dangerous conditions on the job site. When you break ground, that moisture seeps under the surface, freezes, and creates cracks, heaves, and holes that can lead to injuries. Be attentive to the effect of winter temperatures and any form of precipitation to protect your crew.
Pouring Concrete Is Unpredictable in Winter
The winter season makes concrete construction more difficult. When you pour concrete, moderate temperatures help that concrete cure properly and settle in place. Frozen ground interferes with that settlement. As the ground later thaws, the concrete shifts, cracks, and crumbles.
Winter Weather Poses Risks
Your builders’ risk insurance may rate your construction business as higher risk if you work in the winter season. Severe winter storms, high winds, and ice pose serious safety risks and may lead to injuries and accidents on the job site. Stay mindful of current weather forecasts, avoid working in inclement weather when possible, and take every possible safety precaution for improved safety and reduced risk.
Winter Weather Affects Construction Schedules
Does construction work slow down in winter? The demand for construction projects often slows through the winter as people focus on the holidays, shelter from the cold, and start looking toward spring. Severe weather can restrict construction worker accessibility as well, making it harder to find crews willing to work. That does not mean construction is inaccessible in winter, though. It can continue through the winter if you want to maintain year-round work.
Builders’ Risk Coverage Varies
If you plan to work year-round, ensure your builders’ insurance reflects that. Additionally, a good construction general liability plan can help offset the risks of building in the winter. Most risk policies specify construction periods, and the premiums reflect those periods. When you plan to work through the winter, you need a policy that offers coverage for year-round work. Discuss the policy with your agent so you understand any increased risk, policy exclusions, and concerns.
The right insurance coverage is essential for protection against accidents and injuries on the job site. Construction is a high-risk industry in any weather, though it becomes even more dangerous when you add inclement weather and ice through the winter season. Protect your crew, project, and company’s reputation by investing in the right builders’ risk insurance for your operation. Insurance reduces the risk of severe monetary losses if an injury does occur.
About Provident Protection Plus
For more than 65 years, Provident Protection Plus has served the businesses and residents across several states nationwide. Today, we are a wholly-owned subsidiary of Provident Bank, the region’s premier banking institution. To learn more about our coverage options, contact our specialists today at (888) 990-0526.