Don’t Let Safety Slip Your Mind

The days are shorter, the air is cooler, and the ground we walk on can be unpredictable. Streets, sidewalks, and parking lots have the potential to be very slick and pose the greatest risk for injury during the winter months. Here are a few tips and tricks to keep you safe and injury-free while moving about to prevent you from becoming another slip-and-fall statistic.

• Walk like a penguin! Point your toes out slightly to increase your center of gravity on slippery surfaces. Also, walk slowly and carefully by taking short steps where the middle of your foot touches the ground first, not the heel.

• Avoid footwear with smooth soles and heels. Wear shoes or boots that are meant for cold weather and provide traction on snow and ice.

• Assume that all wet, dark areas on the pavement are slippery and icy. It is called black ice because you cannot see it blending in on the surface, making it extremely dangerous.

• Keep your hands out of your pockets. Not only does this make it harder to keep your balance, but it also prevents you from catching your fall.

• Try to avoid landing on your knees, wrist, or spine. 60% of slips end up in a fall. Try to fall on softer body parts, such as your side.

• Place your full attention on walking. Put away your cell phone or other devices that may prevent you from seeing icy or slippery surfaces.

• Use special care when getting in and out of vehicles. Always use the three-point contact rule when entering and exiting the vehicle – 2 hands and 1 foot, or 2 feet and one hand always touching a surface.

• Remember: ice and snow mean “take it slow!”

Why is Slip, Trip, and Fall Prevention Important?

In the S21, S22, and S23 rate codes, there were over 300 slips/trips/falls WCB claims in 2021. In total, this cost our industry members over $1,690,000!

The cold Saskatchewan winters may be unpredictable, but walking on snow and ice doesn’t have to be! When walking outside this winter, take your time, check your surroundings, and use special care when walking on snow and ice! Keep you and your workers safe this winter by sharing these simple yet effective tips and tricks!

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