Avoid Slips, Trips, & Falls this Winter

Nov. 16, 2016 – Winter is coming and that can mean periods of icy or snowy weather. While we work diligently to remove snow and ice from walkways and building entrances, you may still encounter slippery surfaces while walking to and from your vehicle, or if you’re working outdoors. We offer the following tips for avoiding slips and falls during this winter season:

• Select appropriate footwear. There is no single shoe sole material perfect under all conditions; however, footwear with rubber or neoprene composite soles provides better traction on ice and snow than leather or plastic.
• Take time to plan. Think about the best route to your destination and plan on a little extra time to get there. Avoid rushing, taking shortcuts over snow piles or traversing areas where snow or ice removal is incomplete.
• Move with caution. If you have no choice but to walk on a slippery surface, bend slightly forward and shorten your stride or shuffle your feet for better stability.
• Grab a sturdy object. Many slips and falls occur during entry or exit from vehicles. Be particularly careful and hold on to the vehicle for support.
• Use ice melting products. Salt/de-icing solutions should be available for all to use and located at employee entrances. You can use this if you notice a slippery spot. If there is a particularly bad spot, report it to your supervisor.

When entering a building, be sure to:

• Take advantage of floor mats. Make sure to remove moisture from the soles of your shoes. This will help protect you, as well as others who follow, from having to walk on wet or slippery surfaces.
• Watch where you’re walking. Avoid walking on wet or slippery areas if possible.
• Keep others in mind. Take responsibility for immediately reporting slip and fall hazards.

If you have questions on how to protect your business from winter hazards, please contact your advisor. Don’t have an advisor? No problem. We’ll help you find one.

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This blog post is not intended to be exhaustive nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as legal advice. Readers should contact legal counsel for legal advice. Content provided by our professional consulting partners at Integrated Loss Control, Inc.