Winter months bring slip and fall concerns that are typically not factors for employees during warmer months. Snow and icy conditions can result in falls that lead to serious injuries. Benetech, a college insurance provider, offers the following recommendations to prevent slip and fall injuries during the winter months.
- Wear proper footwear. Avoid plastic- and leather-soled shoes or boots.
- When entering and exiting vehicles, exercise caution and use the vehicle for balance and support.
- Try to walk only in designated areas that are safe for foot traffic. If you encounter a walkway that is covered in ice, walk on the grass next to the sidewalk for more traction.
- Avoid inclines that are typically difficult to walk up or down. They may be more treacherous in winter conditions.
- Take small steps to better maintain your center of balance. Walk slowly and never run.
- When possible, walk with your hands free and avoid putting your hands in your pockets. This will help you better maintain your balance and allow you to break a fall should you slip.
- Use handrails, walls, or anything stationary to assist in steadying your feet.
- Test a potentially slippery area before stepping on it by tapping your foot on the surface first.
- Dry your shoes or boots on floor mats when entering a building.
- Report trips and fall hazards immediately to your supervisor.
If you begin to slip…
- Twist your body and roll backward to avoid falling on your face.
- Try to relax your body when you feel your legs give way.
- If you are carrying a load, throw it off to the side, so it doesn’t land on you when you fall. This will also free your arms to help break your fall.
Stay warm and safe!
Clem Campana
Operations Assistant
Office of Human Resources
Published: Fri, 11 Dec 2020 13:00:16 +0000 by c.campana