When temperatures drop and wintry conditions set in, working outdoors becomes more challenging, especially for those operating power tools. Cold weather can affect both workers and equipment, leading to safety risks, reduced efficiency, and potential downtime.
At Southern Power Tools, we understand the unique challenges that come with using power tools in low temperatures. That’s why we’re committed to helping companies keep their teams safe, comfortable, and productive, no matter the weather.
We also cover essential storage tips at the end of this guide to help you winterise your kit correctly.
Understanding the Risks
Cold weather presents several hazards for power tool operatives, including:
👷 Reduced Dexterity and Grip: Low temperatures can numb hands, making it harder to control tools safely.
👷 Battery and Equipment Performance: Cold can drain battery life faster and cause some tools to function less efficiently.
👷 Slips, Trips, and Falls: Icy and wet surfaces increase the risk of workplace injuries.
Compliance and Best Practices
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provides clear guidance on protecting workers in cold environments. This includes ensuring proper PPE, maintaining safe working conditions, and understanding workplace temperature regulations. We work with businesses to ensure they have the right tools and knowledge to comply with these guidelines while keeping productivity high.
How SOUTHERN POWER TOOLS Supports Your Workforce in Winter
We provide essential solutions to ensure power tool operators stay safe and effective in wintry conditions, including:
👷 Cold-Resistant Work Gear: Insulated, high-grip gloves and protective clothing designed to maintain dexterity and warmth.
👷 Winter-Optimised Power Tools: We offer tools with enhanced cold-weather performance, including lithium-ion batteries that withstand lower temperatures.
👷 Safety Accessories and Training: From anti-slip matting to best-practice guidance, we help teams navigate hazardous winter environments safely.
Preventing Slips and Trips in Icy Conditions
Slips and trips are a major concern in winter, particularly when handling power tools. Southern Power Tools helps companies reduce these risks by supplying non-slip footwear, stable work platforms, and expert recommendations for safe outdoor operations.
High-Performance Tools for Cold Weather
We work with leading manufacturers such as DeWalt, Bosch, Makita, and Milwaukee to provide high-performance tools that excel in low temperatures. Our range includes robust power drills, saws, and impact drivers designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, ensuring reliability and efficiency even in the coldest situations.
Safety Training for Power Tool Operatives in Cold Weather
We emphasise the importance of proper safety training to protect workers using power tools in cold conditions. We provide expert-led training programs focused on cold weather best practices, including correct tool handling, PPE selection, and techniques to prevent slips, trips, and equipment malfunctions. Our goal is to ensure operatives are fully prepared to work safely and efficiently, even in the most challenging winter environments.
How to Store Power Tools in Winter
While knowing how to operate tools in the cold is important, improper storage during the winter months is the #1 cause of tool failure in spring. In the UK, dampness, condensation, and freezing temperatures can ruin batteries and clog carburettors before you even take them out of the shed.
Follow this checklist to winterise your kit correctly.
Battery Care (Lithium-Ion & NiCad)
Freezing temperatures are the enemy of battery life. Never leave your cordless tool batteries in a cold van or unheated shed overnight.
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Bring them inside: Store all batteries in a room-temperature environment (between 10°C and 20°C is ideal).
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Charge to 50%: Do not store batteries fully flat or fully charged. A 40-50% charge level is best for long-term storage to prevent cell degradation.
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Disconnect: Always remove the battery from the tool to prevent “vampire drain” and accidental activation.
Petrol Tools: The Fuel System
For petrol chainsaws, leaf blowers, and disc cutters, stale fuel is a major issue. Modern UK pump petrol (E10) contains ethanol which attracts moisture from the air. This can separate and cause significant rust inside the engine.
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Drain or Stabilise: You have two options. Ideally, drain the tank completely and run the engine until it stops. Alternatively, add a quality fuel stabiliser to the tank and run the engine for 5 minutes to circulate it.
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Change the Oil: Old oil contains acids and sludge that can corrode engine parts over winter. A fresh oil change provides a protective coating for internal components.
Cleaning and Lubrication
Damp conditions lead to rust quickly in unheated workshops. Before locking your tools away:
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Wipe down: Clean off sawdust, grease, and dirt. These hold moisture against the metal.
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Apply a protective coat: Spray metal surfaces (table saw beds, blades, chucks) with a dry lubricant or a rust inhibitor like WD-40 Specialist or GT85.
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Keep it off the floor: Concrete floors can wick moisture. Store tools on wooden shelves or in plastic cases to create a thermal break.
Stay Prepared This Winter
Cold weather doesn’t have to slow you down. With the right equipment, protective gear, and safety practices, power tool operatives can continue working effectively even in challenging winter conditions.
At SOUTHERN POWER TOOLS, we’re here to support your workforce with industry-leading tools, safety solutions, and expert advice.
Contact us today to find out how we can help your team work smarter and safer this winter.
Reach out to us:
sales@southernpowertools.co.uk
Together, let’s make your operations safer, smarter, and more productive. 😁
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