In the UK, harsh winter conditions present extra challenges on construction sites. Colder temperatures, shorter daylight hours and unpredictable weather can affect the efficiency and safety of a building project. Ensuring adequate heat, light and power supplies is critical to smooth progress and efficient project delivery. Here at PSM Hire, we are pleased to offer our clients a range of equipment to meet demand and optimise their construction site.
Keep Workers Warm and Materials Ready
As the temperature plummets, it can severely impact your workforce and construction materials. Site workers are likely to perform better - and certainly more safely - in a warm environment. A warmer temperature is more comfortable and reduces the risk of cold-related illnesses like hypothermia or frostbite. In addition, certain materials, such as paints, adhesives and plaster, may require specific temperature ranges to cure or bond properly. Without appropriate heating, work delays and quality issues can arise.
Heating solutions for a construction site:
Electric heaters are ideal for site offices, welfare units, workshops and covered outdoor spaces. They provide clean, dry heat without the risk of emissions.
Tips: Position a larger heater outside the enclosed area and use ducting to direct warm air evenly into the space.
Make sure ventilation is adequate - this prevents condensation buildup, which can lead to damp and mould growth.
Gas heaters can be used for outdoor work areas and partially constructed buildings.
Tips: If using indoors, ensure proper ventilation and sufficient airflow to avoid a buildup of fumes.
Inspect the gas heater before use and only ever use well-maintained gas heaters from a reliable supplier.
As well as heaters, we can also provide dehumidifiers – click to check out our drying solutions. In cold and damp conditions, moisture settles on surfaces which can cause delays in project completion. Large-capacity dehumidifiers remove excess moisture from the air, speeding up drying times for plaster, paint and other thermosetting materials. Our air mover and carpet dryer is also useful for flood scenarios.
Lighting To Ensure Maximum Visibility and Safety
Because our winter days are short - and our daylight hours are often dismal! - building sites require additional lighting to operate effectively. Good lighting is necessary for productivity and - more importantly - it plays a pivotal role in site safety by reducing the risk of accidents. Our comprehensive range of site lighting is essential for building projects and areas with limited access to permanent lighting.
Lighting solutions for building sites:
Our towable lighting boasts multi-directional, adjustable and tiltable floodlights. With compact dimensions, the tower offers easy handling and transportability and convenient ‘plug and play’ connection.
IP67 level protection certified, this lighting tower includes control panel alarms for engine protection and fuel level indicator and a circuit breaker for electrical protection against overload. With a fully bunded tank and adjustable stabilisers, it has certified wind stability up to 110 km/h.
- Tripod Stand and Mast Lighting
Mounted on sturdy tripod masts, our single, double and four-headed floodlights offer high-intensity illumination, making them ideal for night work or early mornings.
Tips: Check that cables are securely fastened and elevated to avoid creating a tripping hazard.
Ensure the mast is set up on level ground to maintain stability.
Position the tower to minimise shadows and ensure even lighting across the site.
- Inspection & Task Lighting
Portable task lights allow workers to carry out focused work in confined spaces, even in low light conditions.
Tips: Our rechargeable handheld lighting options reduce reliance on batteries.
Position inspection lights carefully to avoid glare that could limit visibility or cause discomfort.
Powering An Operational Site
Reliable power is a constant necessity on-site, come rain or shine. However, during the winter months, electrical systems are often under additional strain due to increased heating and lighting demands as well as weather-related power outages. A reliable and well-functioning power supply ensures the smooth and consistent operation of tools, machinery, safety equipment and site welfare facilities.
Power solutions for a construction site:
Generators are a reliable source of power, ideal in remote locations or on sites with insufficient grid access. Diesel generators are suited for heavy-duty use - larger models are capable of powering multiple pieces of equipment simultaneously.
Tips: Check fuel levels and ensure a sufficient backup supply to avoid downtime. Perform routine maintenance on generators - such as checking oil levels and coolant - to avoid cold-start issues.
We also supply petrol generators in various sizes and power capacities, including larger industrial-grade generators that are capable of supplying electricity to an entire building or site.
Peace of Mind and a Safe and Efficient Winter Site
The right heating, lighting and power equipment is essential for maintaining productivity and ensuring safety on winter building sites. Choosing solutions that are tailored to the needs of your project will ensure that your workforce stays warm, your materials are in optimal condition and your site is well-lit and operational throughout our coldest months.
For reliable, high-quality heating, lighting and power solutions, contact us today. We are proud to provide a comprehensive range of equipment to meet your winter construction challenges. For all hire enquiries, please get in touch with our knowledgeable team on 020 8850 5658 or complete our enquiry form.