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Slips, trips, and falls account for approximately 25% of the employee injuries at Colgate. Almost half of the slips, trips, and falls occurred during our beautiful Central New York winter weather (October to May). What can you do to avoid injury?
Rain, snow, and ice can create slippery conditions within the parking lots and along walkways and stairs. The best way to avoid a serious slip and fall this winter is to recognize hazardous conditions and take the proper precautions.
- Wear the appropriate footwear. Flat shoes with slip resistant soles, or rain/snow boots are best since they provide traction.
- Watch where you are stepping. Watch out for ice that may be covered by snow. Take note of buildings that have snow and ice accumulation on the roof.
- Walk slowly and stay alert.Take short flat steps with feet slightly spread.
- Stay alert for warning signs in areas where danger is most prominent. Use handrails on steep inclines and stairways.
- When entering buildings, clean your footwear. Report hazardous conditions ASAP. Call x7131 during normal work hours or x7333 outside of normal work hours.
- Move all obstacles that can cause slips and falls from your work and traffic areas.
- Walk, don't run, from place to place (up stairs) so that you can avoid any object in your way.
- Watch where you are going and don't carry anything that can interfere with your intended path.
- Don't wear sunglasses in low light areas.
- Make sure your shoes provide enough traction.
- Make it a habit to return everything to its storage spot.
- Keep floors dry, clean up any water or spills.
Open 'Gate Article (December 1997)