Published: 28 Oct 2026
With winter approaching – and the hours of autumn daylight already shortening – it’s time for anyone who works outside to take stock of their working practices. Geospatial surveying involves working outdoors in all kinds of situations. Some jobs can be sited in remote locations, while other places can be particularly exposed to the elements. In our latest web article, we’re looking at working as a surveyor when the nights have drawn in – and things you need to know, learn and remember to stay safe over the winter.
‘Weather’ or not….
Autumn and especially winter throw up all kinds of inclement weather, and being prepared for the worst should always be the case. A mild, dry winter is a pleasant surprise, but we always get cold snaps and spikes of bad weather – often unexpectedly. Carrying the right kit and being aware of your surroundings are part of the planning process for site visits. Forewarned is forearmed, and experience counts for a great deal when it comes to safe working. Surveying kit such as boots and a high-vis jacket will offer some protection against the weather and temperature, but it’s often factoring workloads and timelines into the equation that can protect outdoor workers most.
Timing is everything
Timing when you’re working on site becomes partially defined by the winter months. The shorter days, darker mornings and early sunsets ensure that the most has to be made of daylight hours. Plan your day around when the light will be best, check forecasts for warnings of particularly bad weather and make sure office work, or at least work indoors, is carried out if possible. Some sites may be urban and lit, while others will be all but inaccessible in the hours of darkness, and your working day will be over by sundown.
Planning ahead
Health and Safety is paramount when working on site. Whether it’s on a busy construction site, or in a remote location to carry out a topographical survey, winter makes these issues even more pressing. Wet or cold weather can also make site visits hazardous, so take note of ground conditions and prepare for the worst. In the cold winter months, this can involve snow and ice, and rain can cause flooding, which can cause access issues. Unpredictable weather like mist and fog can cause travel and access issues too, so being aware of where you are going and when you need to be there are worth considering at the earliest opportunity.
Working remotely
Remote working and solo working are two elements of the profession that can present the highest risk to surveyors. It’s important to make sure that you keep in contact with colleagues, if you find yourself working alone and away from populated areas. It’s common practice in many organisations for teams of two to work together when it comes to working in remote places. This ensures that if any problems should arise, there is at least on-site support to get help, or alert the wider organisation of the situation. It should also be kept in mind that not everywhere has a perfect phone or Wi-Fi signal, or internet access – and back-up isn’t always a simple phone call away.
GSA always advises its members to stay safe on site and winter makes our work so much more hazardous. Bearing these planning tips in mind will go some way to mitigating against any unwanted surprises that emerge from the dark of winter.
