Returning to Work After the Christmas Break: Health & Safety Risks and Key Controls to Consider

Returning to Work After the Christmas Break: Health & Safety Risks and Key Controls to Consider

For many workplaces, the Christmas and New Year period brings a welcome shutdown or slowdown. However, returning to work after an extended break comes with its own set of health and safety risks that are often underestimated.

From reduced concentration and changes to routines, to cold weather and equipment that hasn’t been used in weeks, the first days back in January are a critical time for employers and workers alike.

Why the Post-Christmas Period Is Higher Risk

After time away from work, employees may:

• Be out of routine and slower to refocus

• Experience fatigue, poor sleep, or lower motivation

• Be dealing with winter illness, stress, or financial pressures

• Forget safe systems of work they normally follow automatically

At the same time, workplaces may face:

• Equipment that has been idle or inadequately checked

• Changes in staffing levels or responsibilities

• Poor weather conditions affecting access, transport, and outdoor work

These factors combine to significantly increase the risk of accidents, near misses, and injuries during the first few weeks back.

Common Risks When Returning to Work

Some of the most frequent hazards seen in January include:

• Slips, trips, and falls due to ice, frost, wet floors, and poor lighting

• Manual handling injuries as bodies readjust after reduced physical activity

• Equipment and machinery failures following periods of non-use

• Reduced situational awareness and shortcuts being taken

• Driving risks, particularly for early starts, poor weather, and long commutes

• Stress and mental health concerns as employees transition back to work

Key Health & Safety Measures to Put in Place

A proactive approach at the start of the year can prevent incidents and set the tone for the months ahead.

1. Re-induction and Safety Briefings

Even for long-standing staff, a short return-to-work safety briefing is invaluable. This should:

• Remind employees of key hazards and controls

• Reinforce reporting of hazards and near misses

• Highlight any changes to procedures, equipment, or layouts

• Re-emphasise the importance of taking time and not rushing

2. Workplace and Equipment Checks

Before full operations resume:

• Inspect machinery, tools, vehicles, and safety devices

• Check emergency exits, alarms, fire extinguishers, and first aid supplies

• Ensure heating, lighting, and ventilation are working correctly

• Address any maintenance issues identified before shutdown

3. Review Risk Assessments and Safe Systems of Work

The new year is an ideal time to:

• Review existing risk assessments

• Ensure they still reflect actual work practices

• Update controls where incidents, near misses, or changes have occurred

• Pay particular attention to seasonal risks such as cold weather and reduced daylight

4. Manual Handling Awareness

After time away, muscles are less conditioned. Employers should:

• Remind staff to use correct lifting techniques

• Encourage use of mechanical aids

• Avoid overloading employees on the first days back

• Ensure manual handling training remains valid and relevant

5. Slips, Trips, and Winter Conditions

Simple controls can significantly reduce risk:

• Grit and treat outdoor walkways

• Improve lighting in car parks and access routes

• Use wet floor signage where required

• Encourage appropriate footwear for conditions

6. Mental Health and Wellbeing

Returning to work can be challenging for some employees. Consider:

• Checking in with staff individually or as a team

• Promoting employee assistance or support services

• Encouraging open communication

• Managing workloads realistically in the first weeks back

Leadership Sets the Standard

Managers and supervisors play a crucial role during this period. Leading by example, allowing time for staff to re-adjust, and reinforcing safety expectations can significantly reduce risk.

A rushed, “back to normal immediately” approach often leads to mistakes. A measured, safety-first restart benefits everyone.

A Strong Start to the Year

The beginning of the year is an opportunity to reset not just business goals, but safety culture. Taking the time to identify risks, engage with employees, and refresh controls can prevent incidents and create a safer, more productive workplace for the year ahead.

If you need support reviewing risk assessments, delivering toolbox talks, or ensuring your workplace is compliant as you return to work, professional health and safety advice can make all the difference.