When winter arrives, construction workers face conditions that can turn a routine job into a dangerous one. Ice, rain, wind and darkness can all increase the risk of serious injuries, many of which could be prevented with the right safety measures in place.

At Switalskis, our Personal Injury lawyers regularly support construction workers who have suffered life-changing injuries due to unsafe working conditions. Our role goes beyond securing compensation; we help clients access rehabilitation and long-term support so they can rebuild their lives after a serious injury.

How winter increases the risk of serious injury

Construction sites are already among the most hazardous workplaces. But in winter, the combination of cold weather and reduced daylight can make conditions unpredictable and unsafe.

Some of the most common causes of serious injury include:

• Falls from height – icy scaffolding, ladders or platforms can make footing unstable, leading to fractures, head and spinal injuries.
• Being struck by moving vehicles or machinery – reduced visibility and shorter daylight hours increase the risk of collisions.
• Manual handling injuries – cold temperatures can reduce flexibility and coordination, leading to strains, slips or crush injuries.
• Exposure injuries – working outdoors for long periods without suitable protection can cause hypothermia and frostbite.
• Falling objects – strong winds and frozen materials can dislodge tools or debris from above.

These incidents can result in catastrophic harm — from broken bones and head injuries to long-term musculoskeletal damage.

Employers’ duty to protect workers in winter conditions

Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, employers must take reasonable steps to protect workers from avoidable risk. That includes adapting safety procedures and site management to account for winter hazards.

This duty extends to:

• Carrying out seasonal risk assessments to identify weather-related dangers.
• Providing suitable PPE, including insulated gloves, non-slip footwear and waterproof clothing.
• Ensuring lighting is sufficient for early starts and late finishes.
• Keeping walkways, scaffolding and platforms free from ice and snow.
• Providing warm rest areas and regular breaks for workers exposed to the cold.

If these measures aren’t in place and a worker suffers a serious injury, the employer may have failed in their legal duty of care.

What to do if you’ve been seriously injured at work

A serious construction injury can have lasting effects - physically, emotionally and financially. If you’ve been hurt in unsafe conditions, you should:

1. Report the incident immediately and ensure it’s recorded in the accident book.
2. Seek medical attention and keep detailed records of your treatment.
3. Collect evidence where possible — photographs, witness statements or details of unsafe conditions.
4. Seek legal advice from a solicitor who specialises in serious workplace injury claims.

At Switalskis, we understand how overwhelming this time can be. Our team will investigate the circumstances of your accident, work with medical experts to assess the full impact of your injuries, and help secure the compensation and rehabilitation you need.

Supporting your recovery

Our approach is built around you. We know that recovery isn’t just about financial compensation, it’s about helping you regain stability, independence and confidence after an injury.

We work closely with rehabilitation specialists, support networks and occupational therapists to ensure every client has the right care in place to move forward.

Speak to our serious injury specialists

If you’ve suffered a serious injury while working on a construction site this winter, you’re not alone. We’re here to help you understand your rights, hold your employer to account and secure the support you need for your recovery and future.

Give us a call today on 0800 138 0458, or get in touch online. Our friendly team of personal injury solicitors are ready to listen and help you start your claim at a time that works for you.