Working at height blog

Storm Amy: Ensuring Workplace Safety and Cleanliness

Written by Emily Patrick | Oct 3, 2025

Understanding the Impact of Storm Amy on Workplace Safety

As Storm Amy sweeps across the UK, bringing with it strong winds and heavy rain, the importance of maintaining safety in workplaces becomes ever more critical. This storm, the first named storm of the 2025/2026 season, is forecast to produce gusts of up to 95mph, with the Met Office issuing amber and yellow weather warnings across large parts of the country. Such extreme weather conditions significantly heighten the risks of accidents, downtime, and compliance issues for businesses, particularly those operating at height or using essential cleaning machinery.

Stormy weather increases the likelihood of outdoor hazards such as falling debris, slippery surfaces, and structural damage. Indoors, the situation is equally precarious. Wet conditions often lead to water ingress, muddy footprints, and debris being tracked into facilities, creating unsafe flooring conditions. These factors contribute to an increased risk of slips, trips, and falls, which are among the most common causes of workplace injuries. Ensuring safety in such challenging conditions requires robust and reliable solutions.

 

The Challenges of Maintaining Cleanliness During Stormy Weather

Maintaining cleanliness during stormy weather poses unique challenges. Outdoor elements, such as rain and mud, are easily brought indoors, leading to dirty and slippery floors. This creates a hazardous environment for both employees and visitors. Furthermore, the increased moisture can lead to water damage and mould growth, complicating the cleaning process and creating additional health risks.

For businesses operating at height or those that rely on essential cleaning machinery, these conditions can disrupt regular operations. The risks of accidents and equipment downtime become more pronounced, and compliance with health and safety regulations becomes more challenging. In such scenarios, having reliable and efficient industrial floor cleaning solutions is crucial to maintaining a safe and productive workplace.

 

How Industrial Floor Cleaning Solutions Can Mitigate Risks

Industrial floor cleaning solutions from HLS can play a pivotal role in mitigating the risks associated with stormy weather. Our range of cleaning equipment is built to handle demanding conditions, ensuring that your operations can continue smoothly even in challenging weather. Whether you need a compact scrubber-drier for small spaces or a ride-on machine for larger facilities, our solutions are designed to meet your specific needs.

Utilising advanced technology, our floor cleaning machines can perform multiple tasks, such as sweeping, scrubbing, and drying, with minimal effort from the operator. This helps maintain clean and safe floors, reducing the likelihood of slips, trips, and falls. Additionally, our equipment is equipped with long-lasting battery power, ensuring prolonged periods of operation even during power outages caused by severe weather.

 

Benefits & Features of HLS Cleaning Equipment

Sweepmaster 980 R – Compact Ride-On Sweeper:

  • Compact ride-on design for both indoor and outdoor cleaning

  • Outstanding manoeuvrability for awkward areas and tight spaces

  • Long battery run-time for uninterrupted cleaning sessions

  • Take-it-Easy dual-dirt hopper system to reduce operator lifting strain

 

Sweepmaster 1500 RH – Heavy-Duty Vacuum Sweeper:

  • Powerful sweeper with 16,200 m²/h coverage rate

  • Efficient filter cleaning system for dust-free performance

  • Multiple power source options for versatile use across environments

  • Robust chassis and collision protection for durability

  • Special winding protection device to prevent bearing damage from film and tape

 

Scrubmaster B45 – Pedestrian Scrubber-Drier:

  • Low brush deck design for cleaning under obstacles and fixtures

  • Effective scrubbing and vacuuming in hard-to-reach areas

  • Compact pedestrian design for smaller, high-traffic spaces

 

View our range of cleaning and floor care equipment by clicking here

 

HLS Cleaning Equipment (General Features):

  • Advanced filtration systems for improved indoor air quality

  • Dust-free cleaning technology to maintain safe working environments

  • Reliable, durable machines built for storm recovery and everyday use

 

Best Practices for Using Floor Cleaning Machines in challenging Weather

Using floor cleaning machines during challenging weather conditions requires preparation, training, and proactive planning. By following best practices, you can ensure both safety and efficiency, even when storms like Amy bring added risks.

1. Regular Maintenance and Inspections

To maximise performance, your equipment must be in optimal condition. Routine checks reduce the risk of breakdowns during critical cleaning operations.

  • Inspect for wear and tear on brushes, squeegees, and moving parts

  • Ensure filters are clean to maintain dust-free operation

  • Check battery levels and charging systems before use

  • Address small issues early to avoid costly downtime

Find out more about annual maintenance contract and request a quote 

 

2. Staff Training and Safe Operation

Operators should be fully trained to use the equipment correctly and safely. This ensures both effective cleaning and compliance with workplace safety standards.

  • Train staff on the different functionalities of each machine

  • Highlight safety features and emergency shut-off procedures

  • Provide refresher training during storm season to reinforce safe practices


3. Risk Assessment and Rescue Planning

A comprehensive storm-response plan should include a clear risk assessment and a rescue plan. This ensures your team can respond quickly and safely to hazards.

  • Conduct a risk assessment to identify hazards such as slips, power failures, or restricted access routes

  • Create a rescue plan with defined roles, evacuation procedures, and safe response actions

  • Train all team members to handle emergencies, including incidents involving working at height or powered cleaning machinery

  • Ensure backup equipment and emergency protocols are in place to maintain compliance and minimise downtime

 

Ensuring Continuous Operations with Reliable Cleaning Solutions

In the face of Storm Amy and similar weather events, ensuring continuous operations is paramount. Reliable cleaning solutions from HLS can help you achieve this by providing robust and efficient equipment that can handle the demands of stormy weather. Our machines are built to last, with durable materials and energy-efficient designs that reduce the need for frequent repairs and replacements.

By investing in our industrial floor cleaning solutions, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with challenging weather, maintain a safe and clean working environment, and ensure that your operations continue smoothly. Whether you need pedestrian scrubber-driers for small areas or ride-on sweepers for larger facilities, HLS has the right solution for you.

For more information on how our industrial floor cleaning solutions can benefit your business, especially during challenging weather conditions, contact the HLS sales team at 0113 524 1018 or email info@hls.co. Let us help you keep your workplace safe and operational, no matter the weather.