As the seasons change, so do the safety risks we face in our workplaces. Often, these hazards creep up on us, only becoming clear once they’ve already posed a risk.
From the intense heat of summer to the slippery conditions of winter, each season brings its own unique set of challenges. If we’re not prepared, these hazards can sneak up and turn what should be routine work into a potential danger zone.

The Seasonal Hazards You Might Be Overlooking
Summer: In the warmer months, heat-related illnesses and UV exposure are top concerns. High temperatures can lead to dehydration, heatstroke, and other serious health issues, especially for outdoor workers. Without regular breaks, shade, and hydration, these workers are at real risk.
UV exposure is another big factor, and while providing sunscreen is important, don’t forget to check those expiration dates! (I’ll admit, I’ve had my own “mother of the year” moment, sending my kids out with expired sunscreen, only to find they got burnt to a crisp.) Expired sunscreen loses its effectiveness, so a quick check can make all the difference in keeping your team protected.
And let’s not forget about Australia’s “creepy crawlies” like bees, spiders, and snakes that seem to love summer as much as we do!
Winter: Colder months bring their own hazards. Wet, frosty, or icy surfaces can quickly turn into slip risks, both outside and in entryways where moisture is tracked inside. Shorter daylight hours and poor visibility from fog or snow add another layer of risk for outdoor work and driving.
Spring: As we move into spring, thunderstorms become more frequent, bringing risks like lightning strikes and power outages. Spring also means allergens are on the rise, which can be a serious issue for workers with asthma or other respiratory conditions. Insects and snakes are also out and about more, especially in rural or wooded areas, which can lead to unexpected encounters.
Why These Hazards Tend to Sneak Up on Us
One of the biggest challenges with seasonal hazards is how fast they change. Just as your team adapts to one set of conditions, the season shifts, bringing fresh risks. It’s easy to overlook these hazards, especially since they often feel like a natural part of the environment rather than direct threats to workplace safety. But the reality is, these seasonal changes can lead to serious incidents if they’re not anticipated and planned for.
A Proactive Approach to Seasonal Safety
So, how can you stay ahead of seasonal hazards and prevent them from catching you off guard? The trick is simple: build seasonal awareness right into your regular workplace inspections.
Quick Win: Add a “Seasonal Hazards” section to your workplace inspection forms.
Quick Win: Add a “Seasonal Hazards” section to your workplace inspection forms.
This small adjustment can have a big impact. It prompts your team to actively look for seasonal risks during their routine checks, making it far less likely that these hazards will go unnoticed.
For instance:
- In summer, check that hydration stations are stocked, and make sure workers have access to shaded areas and sunscreen.
- In winter, have your team inspect outdoor areas for icy patches and make sure non-slip mats are in place at entrances.
- In spring, keep an eye out for insect nests, snake sightings, or any other natural hazards that come with the season.
By adding these checks to your existing safety routines, you’ll be able to address risks before they escalate. This proactive approach not only keeps your team safer but also reinforces a culture of safety that adapts to changing conditions.
The Benefits of Staying Ahead of Seasonal Hazards
Getting ahead of seasonal risks has big payoffs. It lowers the chance of accidents and injuries, which can mean fewer workers’ compensation claims and lower insurance costs. More importantly, it shows your team that you value their well-being year-round, creating a safer, more supportive work environment.
Don’t let changing seasons catch you off guard.
By adding seasonal safety to your workplace inspections, you’ll stay proactive, protect your team, and maintain a safe working environment year-round.

ABOUT THE Author - Kylie Dowell
Kylie Dowell is a seasoned WHS consultant, trainer, and safety advocate with over 25 years of experience helping Australian businesses create safer, compliant workplaces.
Through her partnership with TEAMS, an accredited Registered Training Organisation, Kylie delivers a wide range of training up to Advanced Diploma level, empowering businesses with the knowledge and skills to manage safety effectively.
As an approved trainer for Health and Safety Representative (HSR) courses by three Safety Regulators, Kylie has guided countless organisations in building stronger safety cultures and fostering healthier work environments.
Specialising in practical and effective safety solutions, she works closely with small and medium-sized businesses to simplify complex WHS requirements, making safety approachable and achievable.
When she’s not delivering high-quality training or conducting ISO 45001-certified audits, Kylie enjoys collaborating with her clients to design tailored workshops and strategies that suit their unique needs.
Ready to make safety simpler? Get in touch with Kylie today for personalised support.