November 26, 2014

Avoid slips, trips and falls this winter with safety tips from Occupational and Environmental Safety.

Most of these accidents happen when team members are headed to or from work, and TriHealth cannot guarantee slip-free surfaces this time of year, says Larry Bloomfield MS, RPIH, safety and risk specialist.

"Due to the challenges of the weather and resource allocation, (TriHealth) can't be everywhere at once when things are freezing, thawing and refreezing," he says. "You've got to take matters into your own hands and make sure you're taking precautions."

Occupational and Environmental Safety has put together a list of safety tips for slip, trip and fall prevention, along with ways to walk safety on ice. In addition, team members can request special slip-ons for shoes that provide traction. To request a pair, or for more information, contact Larry at 513 862 2698, or Larry_Bloomfield@TriHealth.com.

For a print-friendly PDF version of these tips, click here, or visit the Occupational and Environmental Safety department page.

Slip, Trip and Fall Prevention

• Wear shoes that provide traction, such as rubber and neoprene composite. (Avoid plastic or leather soles.)
• Take smaller steps.
• Walk slowly; do not run.
• Keep hands free for balance (not in your pockets).
• Use handrails.
• Avoid carrying loads.
• Keep your eyes on where you're going.
• Test potentially slick areas by tapping your foot on them.
• Step - do not jump - from vehicles or equipment.
• Select clear walkways free from debris, water, ice or other slippery materials.

Safe Walking

• Plan your route ahead and give yourself time to get there.
• Walk in designated walkways as much as possible.
• If a sidewalk is covered in ice, walk in a grassy area for traction.

Walking and Falling on Ice

If you must walk on ice:

• Take short steps or shuffle.
• Bend slightly and walk flat-footed with your center of gravity over your feet.
• Be prepared to fall.

If you fall:

• Do so with sequential contact at your thigh, hip and shoulder. Avoid using your arms to protect against sprains and breaks.
• Roll with the fall; try to twist and roll backward, rather than falling forward.
• Relax as much as possible.
• Bend your back and head forward so they don't slam on the pavement as your feet shoot out from under you.
• Toss any load you're carrying. Protect yourself, rather than your objects.