Working in environments impacted by the weather comes with its own set of challenges. One of the primary concerns is the risk of slips and falls, which can result in injuries ranging from minor bruises to serious fractures. All workplaces must take action to prevent injury of any kind. Places that are impacted by erratic weather conditions should be especially careful. To ensure safety in weather-affected work areas, it’s crucial to be proactive and take necessary precautions. Here are some practical tips to prevent weather-related slips and falls at work.

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Choose the right shoes

Proper shoes make a world of difference. Choose shoes or boots with slip-resistant soles that provide good traction on wet or slippery surfaces. Avoid footwear with smooth bottoms that can easily lose grip, increasing the risk of accidents. There are many brands and types to choose from. If you need help picking a pair, you could ask a coworker for advice, or see if the company has any official recommendations.

Be vigilant

Keeping aware of your surroundings is an important step to prevent weather-related slips and falls. In many workplaces, paying attention is already extremely important. With the weather in play, it becomes even more critical. Be mindful of any puddles, ice patches, or wet surfaces that could pose a slipping hazard. Take slower, deliberate steps, and watch out for areas with poor drainage or accumulated debris. A small, wet woodchip or piece of paper could be enough to cause a slip. Be careful!

Keep walkways clear

Weather can cause significant buildup of debris or snow, dirt, leaves, and ice – all of which pose significant slipping risks. Snow and ice are probably the most common and most dangerous types of weather that you will deal with. Clearing pathways can help minimize the risk of slips and falls. Use shovels, brooms, or ice melt products to maintain clear and safe walking areas. Promptly report any hazardous conditions to supervisors or maintenance personnel for immediate action.

Use handrails where available

On stairs or some pathways, there may be handrails you can use to support yourself. During snowy, rainy, or icy conditions, you should use these handrails to prevent weather-related slips and falls. This is critical for stairs. If you slip and fall down a flight of stairs, it can potentially cause significant injury or death. Make sure you always have at least one hand on nearby handrails at all times to make sure you don’t have an accident.

Report safety hazards

Supervisors or safety personnel should be made aware of all hazard developments. This includes weather-related issues. To prevent weather-related slips and falls, notifying these individuals immediately can help them prepare a response. Take proactive steps to address potential risks and prevent accidents before they occur. Your vigilance and prompt action can help create a safer working environment for everyone.

By following these tips and adopting a proactive approach to safety, you can help minimize and prevent weather-related slips and falls in your work environment. Remember that safety is everyone’s responsibility, and together, we can create a workplace where accidents are prevented, and well-being is prioritized. Want to get to work? Contact us today to see how we can help!