Working Through the Dark: Managing Hand Signalling in Poor Conditions
Here in the UK, winter doesn’t just bring rainy weather and cold temperatures, it brings the challenge of working for longer in low light. A late sunrise, early sunsets and foggy, overcast days mean many workers start and finish their shifts in poor light conditions.
While most sites counter these problems with lighting and high‑visibility clothing, there’s one critical detail that’s often underestimated, and sometimes ignored altogether — hand signal visibility.
Traffic marshals, banksmen and site supervisors rely heavily on hand signals to guide vehicles, machinery and pedestrians safely, so wintery conditions bring several major issues:
- Hand signals are more easily missed or misunderstood
- The wrong gloves simply blend into the background
- Drivers struggle to distinguish instructions clearly
- Visual confusion increases the likelihood of a near miss or injury
The Hidden Risk: Hands That Can’t Be Seen
Hands do the talking on site. When visibility is poor, unclear hand signals can be just as dangerous as no signals at all.
Most safety gloves are designed without communication in mind, so in environments where split‑second decisions matter, that lack of clarity can make all the difference.
Improving Safety During the Darkest Months
While winter darkness is unavoidable, its risks can be managed. It’s advised to take a layered approach to visibility and communication:
- Reviewing lighting placement to minimise shadows
- Reinforcing clear communication procedures through training
- Scheduling regular safety briefings during winter months
- Choosing PPE that enhances visibility — not just from the torso up
High‑contrast PPE plays a key role in making sure instructions are seen instantly and understood clearly.
Why High‑Visibility Gloves Matter
Visibility is at the core of what Stop’N’Go does. Our safety gloves are designed specifically to improve hand signal recognition — even in poor light and challenging weather conditions.
With high‑contrast red palms and a bold green back, Stop’N’Go gloves help ensure:
- Hand signals stand out clearly
- Instructions are understood immediately
- Communication remains effective when light levels drop
Everyone knows that red means stop, and green means go, so it’s a simple change that can have a significant improvement on site safety — particularly during our midwinter months.
Stay Visible When It Matters Most
Mid‑winter working conditions will push your safety practices to their limits. Darkness, weather and fatigue all add pressure — but visibility and communication don’t have to suffer.
By reviewing your winter safety measures and choosing PPE designed for clear signalling, you can help reduce risk, prevent confusion and keep operations moving safely.
When the light fades, clarity becomes critical. Stop’N’Go gloves are built to keep hand signals visible — when it matters most.
Call our dedicated team on 01443 743398 , we’d love to help.