December 04, 2013

Follow these tips from Occupational and Environmental Safety to avoid injury this winter.

General Safety Tips

• Wear shoes that provide traction on snow or ice, such as rubber and neoprene composite. (Avoid plastic or leather soles.)
• Take smaller steps when walking.
• Walk slowly and never run on icy ground.
• Keep both hands free for balance rather than in your pockets.
• Use handrails from start to finish.
• Avoid carrying loads.
• Keep your eyes on where you are going.
• Test potentially slick areas by tapping your foot on them.
• Step - don't jump - from vehicles or equipment.
• Select walkways that are clear of debris, water, ice and slippery materials.

Walking Safety Tips

• Plan ahead; give yourself sufficient time and plan your route.
• Walk in designated walkways as much as possible.
• If a walkway is completely covered with ice, try to travel along its grassy edge for traction.

When you must walk on ice:

• Take short steps or shuffle for stability.
• Bend slightly, walk flat-footed with your center of gravity directly over the feet as much as possible.
• Be prepared to fall.
• If you fall, fall with sequential contacts at your thigh, hip and shoulder to avoid using your arms to protect against breakage.
• Roll with the fall - try to twist and roll backwards, rather than falling forward.
• Relax as much as possible when you begin to fall.
• Bend your back and head forward so you won't slam your head on the pavement as your feet shoot out from under you.
• Toss the load you are carrying. Protect yourself instead of the objects being carried.
• When entering buildings, remove snow and water from footwear to prevent wet, slippery conditions indoors.