Winter Safety Tips to prevent work injuries

Each winter we see weather related work injuries that could have been prevented -- Here are some useful tips that can be implemented in your company or organization (click "view our blog" below to continue).

Ice melt and sand products. We suggest purchasing these products in bulk prior to the first snowfall. Always have adequate supply and the equipment and means to safely apply it (wheelbarrow, spreader, shovel)

Employee parking. Injuries that occur once an employee has arrived at work, or as they are leaving the building after work are usually compensable under workers compensation. We suggest that the parking area, sidewalks and exterior stairs be kept clear of ice and snow before employees arrive, during the work shifts, up until everyone has left. Proper lighting is also important. Check the timers to see that they are adjusted for winter.

Please see “Workers Comp Insurance refunds – click here” at the very bottom of this page to see our informative web page. Your company may have been overcharged by the insurance carrier in the past. We get your money back!

Snow shoveling. Often an employee is assigned this task. The biggest injury concerns are slip-and-fall, back strain and heart attack. Don’t wait for the snow to build up. Shovel early and often! Here is how to shovel properly:
• Lift with your legs, not your back. Bend your knees and keep your back as straight as possible so that the lifting comes from your leg muscles, not your back, Step in the direction that you're throwing snow. This will help prevent the lower back from twisting.
• Create some distance between the hands. This will give you more leverage and make it easier to lift snow.
• Pick up smaller loads of snow. It's best to shovel by sections. If you're shoveling deep snow (a foot or more), take it easy and shovel two or three inches off at a time.
• Do push. Don't lift. Save your back and your energy by simply pushing the snow to the side instead of lifting the snow and throwing it off to the side.
• AARP has a good article on the subject.

Snowblower safety. A good alternative to shoveling, there are also risks with snowblowing. Always have a mature, qualified person perform this task.

Clearing snow and ice from roof. Use only an employee who is experienced and capable of safely performing this task, and has the proper tools and materials. Otherwise, hire a company that performs this work.

Winter driving. If your employees are on the road, its an excellent time to conduct retraining on all safe driving techniques. Emphasize clearing all snow and ice from vehicle, defensive driving in difficult weather and increased stopping distances. Always have winter survival gear on board. Texting is the latest major cause of accidents and the company safety policy should specifically prohibit this while a vehicle is moving.

Please see “Workers Comp Insurance refunds – click here” at the very bottom of this page to see our informative web page. Your company may have been overcharged by the insurance carrier in the past. We get your money back!