Winter conditions require extra caution. This guide provides essential safety procedures for keeping our hubs, bikes, and riders safe during cold and wet weather. Safety is a shared responsibility.
Key Responsibilities
Hub teams must ensure the hub environment is safe and clear of hazards.
Riders must perform daily bike checks and adapt their riding to weather conditions.
Hub Preparations
Clear Snow & Ice: Regularly clear the street and walkways in front of the hub. Use de-icing salt or sand to prevent slipping.
Use Entrance Mats: Ensure a large floor mat is placed at all entrance doors to reduce water and prevent slip hazards.
Display Hazard Signs: Place "Wet Floor" signs prominently during wet weather conditions.
Ensure Good Lighting: Keep all entrances and exterior areas well-lit to improve visibility for riders and pedestrians.
Provide Coat Hangers: Make sure there are designated coat hangers or racks for wet clothing to dry.
Stock First-Aid Kits: Check that all first-aid kits are fully stocked and accessible.
Winter Bike Checks & Maintenance
Daily Checks: Perform thorough bike checks daily and report any damages immediately.
Tires: Consider slightly deflating tires to increase their surface area and provide more grip on slippery surfaces.
Brakes: Check brake pads regularly. Cold and wet weather can reduce braking efficiency, so ensure they are in optimal condition.
Lights: Confirm that both front and rear lights are working properly before every shift.
Fenders: Ensure fenders are correctly installed on all bikes to protect riders from water and mud spray.
Safe Riding Techniques
Maintain Safe Speed & Distance: Always ride at a speed that is safe for the conditions and maintain a greater distance from other vehicles.
Gentle Cornering: Approach corners with reduced speed and take them more widely to avoid slipping.
Scan for Hazards: Be extra vigilant for dangerous surfaces like black ice, wet leaves, manhole covers, and snow piles.
Gentle Bike Handling: Avoid sudden movements. Brake gently and early, and steer smoothly.
Balance Your Load: Distribute the weight of orders evenly between saddlebags and boxes. A well-balanced bike is easier to control on slippery surfaces.
Essential Rider Gear & Safety
Clothing & Visibility: Always wear your provided Flink gear. It is designed for cold weather and includes bright, reflective materials to maximize your visibility.
Footwear: Wear insulated, waterproof shoes with a good grip to keep your feet warm and prevent slips.
Handlebar Gloves: Use the handlebar gloves provided by Flink to protect your hands from the cold without compromising your grip.
Helmets: A helmet must be worn at all times for your safety.
Essential Equipment & Links
Order necessary winter supplies for your hub and riders via Coupa:
De-icing Salt: [Link to be added]
Sand/Grit: [Link to be added]
Handlebar Gloves: [Link to be added]
Helmet (Size M): [Link to be added]
Helmet (Size L): [Link to be added]
Helmet (Size XL): [Link to be added]
