Watch your Step. 3 Quick Tips To Improve Winter Workplace Safety

• 15% of all accidental deaths per year 
• 25% of all reported injury claims per fiscal year 
• More than 95 million lost workdays per year ? about 65% of all workdays lost
  

OSHA general industry regulations require employers to protect against hazards such as clutter, protruding objects and slippery conditions. As winter weather rolls in, take these extra steps to prevent workplace incidents. 

Clear the Path 

Give workers a safe route through your facility. Good housekeeping practices mitigate hazards that contribute to workplace accidents.

• Clean up or report spills right away. Even minor spills can be very dangerous. 
• Take multiple trips or get help with large loads. Don't carry loads that impede vision. 

• Keep passageways and aisles clear of clutter and well lit. 
• Deploy all-weather mats at entry points prevent water and mud from accumulating on floors. 

Establish Solid Ground 

As temperatures drop, it's extra important to maintain solid contact with the ground when moving through a facility. 

• Take short steps on slippery surfaces to keep your center of balance under you and point your feet slightly outward. 

• Be extra cautious on smooth surfaces such as newly waxed floors. 
• Don't jump off landings or loading docks. Use the stairs. 
• Wear shoes with appropriate non-slip soles. 
• Use de-icing methods if necessary for employee safety. 

Make Winter Workplace Safety a Priority 

Weather conditions can turn minor inconveniences into major problems. Have a plan for fixing the little things before an incident occurs and train employees to protect themselves from hazards.  

• Repair or replace stairs or handrails that are loose or broken. 
• Properly maintain walking areas, and alert appropriate authorities regarding potential maintenance related hazards. 
• Walk, don't run. Employees in a hurry across slippery or uneven surfaces are more likely to experience a slip, trip or fall. 

Prevent incidents in your facility and move your safety plan to a sure footing. Get your free guide to preventing slips, trips, and falls.