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Winter changes the way we do outdoor work. The mornings are slower to start, daylight disappears too early, and the air has that familiar crisp bite. But there’s something energising about it too – a fresh start, a new pace, and a chance to work smarter!
For anyone working at height, it’s not just about staying warm; it’s about staying aware. Reduced visibility, slippery ground and freezing machinery mean there’s far more to think about before the work can even begin. At Smiths Hire, we’ve been supplying powered access equipment for over 50 years, so we know that when the seasons change, the safest thing you can do is change your approach, not just the tools you hire.
Plan your work and assess the site
Every good job starts with planning, but in Winter, the planning stage is where you can prevent most issues from even cropping up in the first place. A thorough Winter-specific risk assessment is essential because the conditions you’re used to working in can shift overnight. Reduced daylight can make it a little harder to see potential hazards, and frost, ice or wet leaves may change how the ground behaves, so it’s worth checking stability before you start.
Always walk the site in good light to check for uneven ground, low obstacles and anything else that could cause a slip or trip once visibility drops. Remember that shorter days also mean shorter working windows, so plan your schedule to make the most of available daylight and avoid rushing tasks when conditions deteriorate.
Choose the right powered access equipment
In Winter, it’s important to choose equipment that suits both the task and the environment you’re working in. When daylight is limited, a bit of additional site lighting can make all the difference, helping you keep things clear and safe as the day draws in. And if the ground is soft or uneven, using a machine designed for tougher terrain will help you stay steady and in control, even when conditions aren’t perfect. Models like the Skyjack SJ9250 Rough Terrain Scissor Lift or our diesel rough-terrain scissor lifts are built with 4×4 traction and stabilising support, making them ideal for outdoor work where the surface underfoot can’t always be trusted.
Prepare the machine and work area
When the cold sets in, a quick once-over of the equipment isn’t enough; take time to check that every light, control and emergency function is working as it should. The area around the machine should be clear of hazards like ice, slush and any other debris.
You’ll also want to make sure everyone on site is dressed for the conditions, with high-visibility clothing, thermal layers and gloves that still allow proper grip and control. When temperatures drop, it’s worth keeping in mind that, like most equipment, access platforms can take a little longer to get going in colder weather than they would on a mild day. Allowing a few extra minutes at the start helps everything warm up and run smoothly, keeping your day on track from the first lift.
Operate with extra awareness
Working at height always calls for focus, but Winter just adds a few extra things to stay mindful of. It helps to get as much done as you can while there’s daylight, and if the job runs into dusk, make sure your work area’s well-lit and everyone stays in clear contact from ground to platform. Take your time with the controls and keep movements smooth so everything stays steady and predictable. As the day goes on, keep an eye on the weather too; frost can turn to surface water, and a calm morning can soon become breezy. If something starts to feel off, it’s worth pausing for a moment to check things over before carrying on.
Shut down safely and review the day
If you can, it’s always worth storing your powered access equipment in a sheltered or covered spot at the end of the day. It’s not a strict requirement, but keeping the machine out of the worst of the weather helps protect it from frost, ice and heavy rain, and makes it quicker to get going again in the morning.
All our powered access machines for hire at Smiths Hire are maintained and thoroughly inspected before delivery, but how you leave the equipment at the end of each day is equally important. It’s also a good idea to have a quick debrief with your team to record any hazards or incidents so improvements can be made before the next task.
At Smiths Hire, we have an extensive range of powered access equipment, including all the machines mentioned in this guide and plenty more to suit every kind of site and season. Whether you’re tackling a one-off Winter project or managing large-scale maintenance across multiple locations, we’re here to make sure you’ve got the right tools to get the job done safely and efficiently.
We’ve been supporting the trade and DIY sectors for more than 50 years, supplying high-quality, well-maintained equipment from our 18 depots across the North West and Yorkshire. You’ll find us in key locations like Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds and beyond, all ready to deliver the service and reliability our customers have come to expect.
If you’d like expert advice on the best powered access solution for your Winter work or want to discuss your next hire, our friendly team is only a call away on 0333 323 2100!
