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MCC Daily Tribune

'Tis the Season for Snow and Ice!

Old Man Winter has arrived early this year, bringing freezing temperatures, snow, icy roads, slippery sidewalks, and a variety of health and safety hazards! According to the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture, slips and falls account for 300,000 serious injuries and 20,000 deaths a year in the United States. Many of these injuries occur in the northern states, caused by winter snow and ice conditions.

Though our Facilities crews do their best, at times, it is near impossible to keep sidewalks, parking lots, steps and interior entrances clear of snow and ice. Snow can fall rapidly while employees are at work or just before dawn with little time for snow removal. Extreme cold temperatures can render salt ineffective in melting snow and ice. Therefore, it is vital for you to recognize the hazards and have a plan to stay upright! Use these practical tips and advice to minimize your risk and help reduce your chances of being injured.

  • Place your full attention on your walking surface. Assume that all wet, dark areas on pavements are slippery and icy.
  • Walk like a penguin! (See the attachment.) Extend your arms (er, wings) out to your side, spread your feet out slightly, bend your knees to keep your center of gravity over legs, and walk SLOWLY, taking small steps or shuffling your feet. Does it look silly to waddle down the street? Absolutely. But give it a shot -- penguins, after all, have a decent amount of experience holding their own on ice and might have a thing or two to teach us.
  • If carrying something, hold it close to the body at waist height, to maintain your center of gravity.
  • Wear boots or shoes with grip soles. Slick leather or plastic soles on shoes will definitely increase the risk of slipping. Boots made of non-slip rubber or neoprene with grooved soles are best.
  • When getting out of your car, swing a leg out and check for slippery conditions. Hold onto your car door to give you extra support and prevent slipping and falling.
  • Don't take shortcuts over snow piles or in areas where snow and ice hasn't been removed. Use walkways that have been salted or shoveled.
  • If you are falling backwards, make an effort to tuck your chin, so your head won't hit the ground.
  • Try to avoid landing on your knees, wrists, or spine that are more prone to injury. Try to form a ball and land on a fleshy part of your body, such as your side. Also wearing a heavy, bulky coat will cushion you if you should fail.
  • Stomp your feet before entering the building and drag your feet on the doormat to remove snow and water. This will help keep the floor around the mats dry and free of puddles. Every year, it seems, someone slips in one of those puddles!
  • Report icy spots in the parking lots to Facilities, 292-2800.

 

Attached Files:
Walking Safely on Snow and Ice...pdf

Sharon Marini
Environmental Health & Safety
11/18/2019