Winter brings a unique set of challenges for equestrian yards. Shorter days, freezing temperatures, icy surfaces and unpredictable weather all place extra physical and mental demands on grooms.
For UK yard owners, winter working practices must strike a balance between horse welfare and legal responsibilities toward staff. A proactive approach not only protects your team but also strengthens your business.
Employment Law: Fair Treatment in the Cold
Under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, employers have a legal duty to provide a safe working environment—even outdoors. While there is no legal minimum temperature for outdoor work, employers must ensure conditions are “reasonable.” Expecting staff to work for hours in freezing rain without appropriate breaks, facilities, or equipment could breach this duty.
Human Resources: Winter is a Wellbeing Issue
Winter workload often increases just as physical resilience decreases. Yard owners should be alert to seasonal burnout, sickness absence and low morale. Clear communication about adjusted expectations, rotas, and severe weather arrangements is crucial.
Appropriate winter clothing policies should be considered. While it is common for grooms to supply their own clothing, employers may need to provide essential personal protective equipment (PPE) such as waterproofs, gloves, thermal layers or reflective gear under the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 2022.
Health & Safety: Risk Rises as Temperatures Fall
Slips, trips and falls increase dramatically in winter. Ice, mud and poor light demand updated risk assessments, not just summer ones reused year after year. Gritting walkways, improving lighting and adjusting turnout schedules are simple but effective controls.
Cold exposure can also cause or worsen conditions such as Raynaud’s, asthma and musculoskeletal injuries. Staff should be encouraged to report cold-related symptoms early, and managers should respond without judgment.
Good Practice Protects Everyone
Compliant, caring winter management protects grooms, horses and your reputation as an employer. Yard owners who take a thoughtful, legally-informed approach to winter working conditions are far more likely to retain skilled staff and maintain safe, high-functioning yards throughout the hardest months of the year.
Winter is tough—but with the right planning, it doesn’t have to be risky. For all the advice and support you need, join the EEA at www.equestrianemployers.org.uk