Winter weather can be a pain for businesses. Snow and ice accumulation can make it difficult to go about your normal duties. Whether you are working outside in the frigid temperatures, or preparing your storefront for customers, Winter accidents can easily occur.
To help you avoid these winter slip-ups, we have put together some tips on how to stay safe if the weather is not in your favor.
Walking in Winter Weather Conditions
The most important thing to help avoid a Winter accident is wearing the right shoes. Winter weather shoes must have traction on the bottom of them. It is also best to stay away from shoes with leather or plastic soles. These materials are more likely to cause you to misstep in snow or ice.
When you arrive at your destination, test the ground surface before fully putting your weight down into your step. Be sure to use walkways that are designated for foot traffic. If you notice that the walkway is covered in ice, you may have more success walking on the area next to the sidewalk. This will provide more traction to your steps.
If the ground is a little more slippery, try taking smaller steps. This will provide you with more balance. You can also “penguin walk” for extra security when walking on ice.
If you are entering a building, be sure to wipe your feet on a doormat before walking through the space. Doing this will help prevent indoor slips. Business owners - if you have not done so already, double check that you have doormats in good condition. You may consider using one on each side of the door for extra protection.
Creating a Safe Walkway
After a snow storm, most cities require by law that you clear walkways. The reason for this is because if someone slips on your property, you may be liable. Plus, as a business owner, it is a courtesy to your customers to have a clear walkway.
If shoveling is not enough, you might need to add salt or sand if the ice is still present. This will help melt the ice, making your walkway safer for foot traffic.
When clearing your walkway, stay aware of your surroundings. Snow can fall from the roof at any time, especially after heavy snowfall, you can step on a curb, or in a hole that is covered by snow and hurt an ankle, etc. Small accidents that we would not think of are more likely to happen when the ground is covered.
If You Start to Slip
As everyone has experienced, sometimes a slip is just unavoidable. Fortunately, there are a few things you can remember to do that will lessen the impact of a fall.
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Try to twist your body backwards, so you do not fall forward and harm your face.
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If you reach an arm out to support yourself, brace your fist to avoid wrist injuries.
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Do not stiffen your body when falling.
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If you are carrying something, especially a heavy item, throw it to the side so it does not end up falling back on you.
Accidents will always happen, but the more prepared you are, the better chance you have at avoiding them. For more information on how you can prevent Winter weather accidents, call us at (303) 279-9700, or fill out the form below. One of our agents will assess your risk level and provide you with personalized safety solutions. This will ensure maximum safety to you, your employees, and your customers!