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Safety, Health, Environment & Risk Management
Slipping into Winter
Jan 24/13
The winter season is quickly approaching and with it comes difficult winter weather conditions. This year, don’t SLIP into winter, learn how to meet winter on your terms. Review the safety tips below, and take a STAND against treacherous winter weather!
General Precautions
· Stay on the designated walkways. Avoid rushing and taking shortcuts through areas that are not maintained for pedestrian traffic.
· Avoid carrying large objects or packages that may obstruct your view or cause you to lose your balance.
· Assume that all wet, dark areas on pavements are slippery and icy.
· When entering a building, remove snow and water from footwear so you don’t create wet, slippery conditions indoors.
· Walk on the cleanest parts of stairs or ramps.
· Maintain at least one hand on the handrails when using stairs (3-point contact).
· Continuously look for loose gravel or ice in your path.
· Don’t walk distracted. Always look where you are going and go where you are looking.
· Scan area for tripping hazards prior to moving in any direction.
· When walking, keep your eyes focused on the direction of your travel. (i.e. looking behind before backing up).
When Slippery Conditions Exist
· Test the travel path for slickness by sliding your shoe/boot on it before proceeding.
· Walk slowly; take your time and adjust your pace.
· Bend slightly forward and shorten your stride or shuffle your feet to maintain your center of balance over your feet.
· Point feet slightly outward, to aid in keeping your center of balance. Make wide turns at corners.
· When exiting or entering a vehicle, be sure to hold onto the vehicle for support.
· A sidewalk completely covered with ice may require walking along its grassy edge for traction.
· Keep hands at the sides (not in the pockets).
Footwear
· Always try and wear the best non-skid shoe possible, especially paying attention to the type of weather you will be exposed to.
· Shoes that have worn, slick soles should not be worn.
· Avoid high heels during inclement weather.
· Select something that has a large surface area, which has good traction.
· Maintain the soles of you boots by ensuring they are feel of stones and other debris that will lessen the slip resistant qualities of the boot.
· Rubber or Neoprene composite soles provide better traction.
If you encounter a slippery condition at any Laurier location, report the hazard as soon as possible:
Waterloo & Kitchener
Physical Resources
Between the hours of 8:30 – 4:30 – call extension #6280
After hours – contact Special Constable Service, extension #3333
Brantford
Physical Resources
Between the hours of 8:30 – 4:30 – call extension #5761
After hours - contact Special Constable Service, extension #5888
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