Preventing Slips and Trips During Springtime

While spring is often associated with fresh blooms and warmer temperatures, it may also bring rain showers. This type of weather can create wet and slippery conditions, posing various safety risks. In particular, rainy conditions could increase the likelihood of slips and trips, both outdoors and indoors. These incidents could result in serious ailments, including strains, sprains, broken bones, and even head and spinal cord injuries.

As such, it’s important for employees to be aware of these risks and take steps to protect themselves on the job – promoting a safe workplace and preventing potential injuries. Here are some best practices to help minimize slips and trips during springtime:

• Wear the right shoes: First and foremost, it’s critical to select safe footwear for rainy conditions. Encourage employees to wear nonslip boots or tennis shoes with proper traction in wet conditions.

• Follow designated paths: Utilize labeled walkways and pedestrian paths in the workplace. These areas are specifically designed for the safe passage of foot traffic.

• Be cautious: Even if under time constraints or dealing with a particularly heavy workload, try to avoid rushing. Walk at a safe and steady pace, and remain alert for any hazards in the path ahead. Never multitask while walking, no matter how short your journey is. When walking on ramps or stairways, use any available handrails.

• Don’t create puddles: When first entering the workplace after walking in wet conditions, shoes—and raincoat and umbrella—could easily carry water inside. This could create puddles that others may slip and trip on. Encourage employees to wipe shoes on an entrance mat or with a clean towel upon entering the workplace, and store coats and umbrellas away from any walkways.

• Watch for unaddressed hazards: In addition to looking for puddles, make sure to watch for any other unaddressed slip and trip hazards on the job.

For additional spring safety guidance, reach out to us!