Safely Walking On Wet, Ice And Slippery Surfaces
Mar. 2 2023
Safety
Prevent slips, trips, and falls while walking on job sites in wet and icy weather
- Wear slip-resistant footwear that has good traction (utilize cleats, etc., as needed.)
- Avoid shoes with smooth soles • Take shorter steps at a slower pace on icy pavement, shuffling your feet
- Hold onto the handrails when using stairs
- Keep your hands free to catch yourself if you start to fall
- Use a cart or assistance (when applicable) when carrying large items
- Avoid walking while distracted; put away your mobile device
- Use caution when stepping off curbs and walking up or down steep slopes
- Don’t rush! Give yourself extra time to get to your destination
- Wipe your feet on a mat when you enter a building to remove excess water
Use Caution When Walking In Parking Lots
- Avoid wearing headphones so you can hear cars approaching
- Watch for moving cars and heavy equipment; a driver may not be able to see you
- Take special care when getting in and out of vehicles when the pavement is slippery or icy
- Consider your personal safety on dark winter days
- Use designated walkways with good lighting (or carry a flashlight) as much as feasible
- Walk with other people as often as possible. This increases your visibility and time for aid if necessary
- Stay focused and alert.
Report Unsafe Conditions
Help us identify areas where accidents are likely to occur so we can take steps to keep our job sites safe. Slips, trips, and falls are among our most commonly reported accidents this time of the year. Slips, trips, and falls tend to be more frequent in rainy or icy weather, in darkness, when walking on uneven surfaces, when items are left on the floor, and when we’re hurrying and not paying attention to our surroundings.