The weather outside is frightful, but safety’s so delightful.
Mud, snow, ice, frigid temperatures. Winter in Oregon brings additional challenges to the workplace, and an increase in slips, trips, and falls. In the past five years, SAIF has accepted more than 32,000 slip, trip, and fall claims. Common injuries were strains, contusions or bruises, sprains, and fractures.
"Winter is an especially hazardous time, when it comes to slip, trip, and fall hazards,” said Jim Nusser, safety health services adviser at SAIF. “Surface conditions can change minute by minute, and accidents can happen in the blink of an eye.”
SAIF's new videos show just how suddenly slips, trips, and falls can occur.
Fortunately, there’s a lot you can do to reduce your risk of injury. Here are four helpful tips to avoid winter slips, trips, and falls:
- Keep stairs and walkways clear of snow, ice, obstacles, leaves, and debris
- Be aware of your surroundings. Be especially cautious when exiting vehicles
- Wear closed-toed shoes with good traction. Slow down and walk like a penguin on slippery surfaces
- Place your ladder on a stable, level surface. Maintain three points of contact, keeping two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand, on the ladder at all times
More information, including free posters and handouts on slips, trips, and falls, can be found at saif.com/trips.
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