Winter Safety Tips to prevent work injuries

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

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 are usually compensable under workers compensation. We suggest that the parking area and sidewalks be kept clear of ice and snow before employees arrive, during the work shifts, up until everyone has left.

Snow shoveling. Often an employee is assigned this task. The biggest 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. Never bend at the waist. Step in the direction that you're throwing snow. This will help prevent the lower back from twisting and will help alleviate any back soreness that you might typically experience the day after a hard shoveling job.
• 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.
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.