As the UK moves into the latter part of the year, daylight hours shorten, weather conditions worsen, and construction sites face added layers of risk. Poor visibility, cold, wet surfaces, and challenging working conditions all contribute to a higher likelihood of accidents, injuries, and delays.
For site managers, this isn't just an operational challenge, it's a compliance issue. Under UK health and safety law, employers are legally obligated to anticipate seasonal risks and put robust control measures in place. That means ensuring:
- Adequate lighting so that workers can move safely and carry out tasks accurately, even in early mornings or late afternoons.
- Safe access routes that are protected against ice, mud, and standing water.
- Appropriate PPE to keep workers warm, dry, and visible in darker, colder conditions.
Failure to prepare exposes businesses not only to the risk of incidents but also to potential enforcement action under regulations like the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, CDM 2015, and the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992.
At FixFirm, we combine decades of construction supply experience with a comprehensive range of safety products to help you stay one step ahead. From LED site lighting to grit bins, protective floor coverings, and compliant PPE, we provide the practical solutions that keep your site safe, efficient, and legally compliant through the darker months.
The Legal Framework: What UK Law Demands
Several key pieces of legislation apply directly to site safety during periods of low light and adverse conditions:
- Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 - employers must ensure, so far as reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare of employees.
- Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM 2015, Part 4) - requires safe access, safe working areas, and sufficient artificial lighting.
- Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 - mandates suitable lighting and safe pedestrian routes.
- Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 2022 - requires employers to provide appropriate PPE (free of charge).
- Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 - employers must assess seasonal risks and implement control measures.
Each of these regulations carries direct implications for site safety during shorter, darker days and FixFirm provides the solutions that help you comply.
Lighting: Meeting CDM and Workplace Regulations
The challenge: Reduced daylight makes poor visibility a major hazard. Both CDM 2015 and the Workplace Regulations 1992 require sufficient artificial lighting to ensure safe access and working conditions.
FixFirm solutions:
Galaxy 1200 Rechargable LED Nightsearcher Work Light (Code: V921-3471)
A compact rechargeable LED work light, with a powerful 1200 lumen light output. It is ideal for use across all types of industry giving a portable, dependable light without risk of high heat build-up.
110V 20W SiteForce Slimline Floor Flood Light (Code: V921-350)
A compact, energy-efficient LED floodlight offering broad illumination. Ideal for ensuring CDM 2015 compliance with sufficient artificial lighting on site, especially during shorter daylight hours.
1. 110v 30W SiteForce LED Globe Light (Code: V921-340)
This modern LED Globe Light has a 360 degree light distribution, emitting light in all directions to create an efficient workspace lighting solution.
50W SiteForce Slimline Floor Flood Light (Code: V921-351)
A more powerful version of the flood light with enhanced brightness, effective for illuminating larger site areas or outdoor compounds, aiding safe access as required under CDM and workplace regulations.
LED Lenser H3.2 Lightweight Dimmable Headtorch (Code: Z182-154)
A lightweight, high-intensity headtorch with adjustable dimming and a 90 degrees swivel beam, ideal for hands-free visibility in confined or low-light areas, supporting safe working practices in line with CDM and workplace regulations.
How They Bolster Both Safety & Compliance:
| Product | Safety Function | Regulatory Link |
| 20W Slimline Flood Light | Illuminates walkways and general areas during low-light hours | Meets CDM 2015 and Workplace Lighting Regulations (1992) for safe visibility |
| Folding A-Frame LED Light | Provides focused, glare-free task lighting |
Supports precise indoor work and hazard reduction under Workplace Regulations 1992 |
| 50W Slimline Flood Light |
Covers larger areas like compounds and access zones |
Helps maintain safe, well-lit environments per CDM and Workplace Regulations |
By investing in adequate lighting, site managers demonstrate compliance while protecting workers during early mornings, evenings, and overcast conditions.
Safe Access: Gritting and Protection
The challenge: Ice, frost, and mud can significantly increase the risk of slips, trips, and falls. Both CDM 2015 and the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 require employers to maintain safe access for workers and visitors, particularly in challenging weather conditions.
FixFirm solutions:
200 Litre Yellow Plastic Salt/Grit Bin - 250 kg Capacity (Code: Z113-420)
A large-capacity, robust grit bin with a secure hinged lid. Ideal for high-traffic areas such as site entrances, compounds, and vehicle access points. Keeps grit dry, secure, and ready for use to ensure compliance with access safety requirements.
130 Litre Yellow Plastic Salt/Grit Bin - 125 kg Capacity (Code: Z113-413)
A compact, durable grit bin designed for smaller sites, walkways, and ramps. Perfect where space is limited but access safety is essential.
White Deicing Salt 'Rock Salt' - 25kg (Code: Z101-900)
Essential for keeping pedestrian and vehicle routes clear of ice, reducing slip risks, and maintaining safe access in compliance with UK health and safety regulations.
| Product |
Safety Function |
Regulatory Link |
| 200 L Grit Bin (Z113-420) | Provides high-capacity grit storage for larger sites and compounds | Supports CDM 2015 & Workplace Regulations 1992 safe access requirements |
| 130 L Grit Bin (Z113-413) | Ensures smaller access routes and ramps are kept ice-free | Demonstrates compliance with Management of H&S Regulations 1999 (risk control) |
| Rock Salt / De-icing Salt | Reduces slips, trips, and falls by de-icing routes | Helps fulfil employer duty of care under Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 |
By installing grit bins and ensuring regular salt application, site managers demonstrate proactive compliance with UK safety regulations while protecting workers and visitors from seasonal slip hazards.
PPE: Protecting Workers Under the Law
The challenge: The Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992, updated in 2022, place a legal duty on employers to provide suitable PPE free of charge to all workers, including casual or contracted (limb (b)) staff. PPE must be risk-assessed, properly maintained, and matched to the specific tasks and environments in which it is used.
FixFirm solutions:
Winter Waterproof Orange Latex Grip Gloves
(Size 9 Large Code: Z051-3109)
(Size 10 XL - Code: Z051-3110)
Waterproof winter gloves with latex coating for grip and thermal protection, great for wet and cold environments.
Winter Hi-Vis Builders Grip Gloves
(Size 9 Large - Code: Z051-0184)
(Size 10 XL - Code: Z051-0185)
Thermal-lined with a high-visibility design and textured latex palm for improved grip. Ideal for handling materials in cold, low-light conditions.
Yellow Portwest S491 Sealtex Ultra Hi-Vis Waterproof Unlined Rain Jacket
(Size S- Code: Z061-1503)
(Size M- Code: Z061-1504)
(Size L- Code: Z061-1505)
(Size XL- Code: Z061-1506)
(Size 2XL - Code: Z061-1507)
(Size 3XL- Code: Z061-1508)
Sealtex Ultra Hi-Vis Waterproof Unlined Jacket is garment of exceptional quality. Made from a unique lightweight material which offers an unrivalled mixture of breathability, waterproof and windproof protection.
Yellow SEALTEX ULTRA Hi-Vis Reflective Waterproof Trousers - S493
(Size S- Code: Z061-6583)
(Size M- Code: Z061-6584)
(Size L- Code: Z061-6585)
(Size XL- Code: Z061-6586)
(Size 2XL - Code: Z061-6587)
(Size 3XL- Code: Z061-6588)
(Size 4XL- Code: Z061-6589)
Made from a unique lightweight material which offers an unrivalled mixture of breathability, waterproof and windproof protection. Sealtex Ultra Hi-Vis Reflective Waterproof Trousers are exceptional quality.
| Product | Safety Function | Regulatory Link |
| Winter Hi-Vis Builders Grip Gloves | Keeps hands warm, visible, and secure during handling tasks | Meets PPE Regulations 1992/2022 - employers must provide suitable, hazard-appropriate PPE at no cost. |
| WorkGlow Hi-Vis Bomber Jacket | Ensures worker visibility and protection from wind and rain | Supports employer duty under Health & Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and PPE Regulations for protective clothing |
| Winter Waterproof Latex Grip Gloves | Provides grip and waterproofing in harsh conditions | Aligned with PPE duty to ensure suitability and protection in UK construction environments |
By equipping workers with the right PPE, like high-performance gloves and jackets, you actively meet your legal obligations while keeping your team safe, visible, and comfortable in challenging conditions.
Risk Management: Meeting HSE Expectations
The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 require employers to assess seasonal risks, such as low light, cold stress, and slippery walkways and implement practical control measures.
By incorporating FixFirm's lighting, access, and PPE solutions, site managers can demonstrate proactive compliance and protect against HSE enforcement.
Why Choose FixFirm?
Compliance-first approach - all products aligned with UK safety regulations.
Comprehensive seasonal range - from lighting and grit bins to PPE and temporary protection.
Trusted expertise - decades of supporting UK construction sites.
Sustainability focus - energy-efficient lighting and eco-conscious sourcing.
The darker months don't just bring operational challenges, they bring legal responsibilities. By partnering with FixFirm, you can protect your workers, maintain productivity, and demonstrate compliance with Health and Safety at Work, CDM 2015, PPE Regulations, and more.
View our safety range here and get your site prepared for the season ahead.
BACK TO ARTICLES
