Winter Safety

This time of year is typically slip/trip/fall injury season on and off the job. You can prevent this type of thing from happening by:

	RECOGNIZING the many hazards at work or at home
	AVOIDING hazards by walking around them
	CONTROLLING hazards by marking them clearly so others won't get hurt
	CORRECTING hazards yourself or
	REPORTING hazards to someone who can correct them

Here are some tips which you may find helpful in avoiding slip/trip/fall injuries

1. Practice safe walking skills

	Take short steps
	Walk with feet pointed outward (like a duck)
	Make wide turns
	Pay attention to the surface you're walking on
	SLOW DOWN!!

2. Wear slip-resistant shoes

Evaluate adequate friction for particular weather hazard

3. Keep soles of shoes clean
    
4. Keep one hand free for balance

Avoid carrying heavy objects or two-handed carries when walking on surfaces with snow or ice

5. Don't walk on ice unless you absolutely have to and can't avoid it
    
6. Be alert for icy patches underneath snow, "black" ice, or hazards caused by freeze/thaw conditions
    
7. Pay special attention to slippery surfaces (ice or snow covered) which are not level or when going up or down steps.

When clearing snow from sidewalks and driveways at work or at home, be sure to shovel smartly -- bending the legs, using them for lifting rather than the back. And, by all means, don't overdo it (CHECK OUT THE ERGONOMIC SHOVELS)!!! If using a snow blower for snow removal, deenergize the machine before attempting to clear away snow build-up while keeping hands clear of moving parts. Use a GFCI if the snow blower is an "Electric type". Also, dress appropriately for the task -- wear a hat, gloves, boots, a warm jacket, and eye protection (preferably tinted during daylight hours to cut down on glare).

REMEMBER THE COLD, HARD FACTS.

WINTER SAFETY PREVENTS INJURIES!!