Winter season runs from November through March. Certain dangers come with the colder, slicker weather. The cold winter weather introduces new dangers such as ice and snow, creating seasonal safety risks. Even if you live in a part of the country that doesn’t see extreme winter weather, we all experience drops in temperature that could impact our driving, clothing and walking.
When dressing for winter conditions in non-snow areas:
n Focus on layering with:
n A base layer for moisture-wicking;
n A mid-layer for insulation; and
n An outer layer that protects against wind and light rain, prioritizing fabrics like wool, fleece, and synthetic materials that retain heat well.
n Remember to also cover your head and extremities with a hat and gloves.
When in non-snow areas, consider:
n Wind chill
Even without snow, wind can significantly increase the perceived coldness. Prioritize windproof outer layers.
n Weather conditions
Check the forecast and adjust your clothing, accordingly. Add more layers if temperatures drop significantly at night.
n Activity level
If you plan to be active outdoors, choose breathable fabrics that wick moisture to avoid overheating.
When ice or snow is present on walkways, it increases the risk of slipping, tripping, and falling due to the low friction on the surface. Ice, snow, and freezing temperatures in the winter multiply the number of wet and slippery surfaces which increases the risks of potential accidents.
Most winter-related slips, trips, and falls occur on outdoor surfaces. The majority happen in:
n Parking lots;
n Roadways;
n Driveways; and
n Walkways where individuals travel on foot between their destination and vehicles.
Some winter-related slips, trips, and falls can occur indoors in:
n Entryways;
n Hallways; and
n Other rooms where ice and snow have been tracked in from outside or when floor mats are unsecured.
n Do the penguin shuffle. Focus on your footing, walk flat-footed, and take short steps to keep your center of balance over your feet.
n Take it slow and walk slow on ice and snow to avoid a slip.
n Wear proper footwear for the weather. Choose footwear with non-slip soles, deep treads and wide, low heels; add cleats for extra traction.
n Watch for changing conditions and monitor the weather; cycles of freezing, melting and re-freezing are especially dangerous.
n Don‘t be distracted. Put your cell phone away while walking and focus on where you‘re going.
n Step down (not out) from curbs and cars. Step flat-footed off curbs, and step down with both feet when exiting your vehicle.
n Walk on marked paths and avoid short cuts. Short cuts are likely to be icy and put you in danger of slipping.
During the winter season, the potential for accidents is increased because weather and road conditions impacts driving skills. To help reduce the risks:
n Perform a thorough pre-trip inspection and check your vehicle along the way. In addition to the tires, your lights, brakes, windshield wipers, defroster and radiator are especially important for driving this time of year. The hazards of traveling in winter weather will only be compounded if your vehicle fails to operate properly.
n Slow down on wet, snow-covered or icy roads, even if they have been sanded or salted. The posted speed is the maximum speed under ideal conditions. A slower speed will give you more time to react to hazards. Also, avoid using cruise control in snow, ice, or rain because it could cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
n Increase the distance between your vehicle and those around you to safely match weather and road conditions, visibility, and traffic. Try to stay away from packs of vehicles, whenever possible. Slow down and back off if you find yourself catching up to a cluster of traffic. This extra space is necessary if you begin to skid or when you must stop.
n Use gradual movements in bad weather to help avoid skidding, slipping or sliding. Sudden starting, stopping, turning, merging, or changing lanes, or speeding up or slowing down, can quickly cause you to lose control of your vehicle. Use your directional signals to give ample warning to other drivers whenever you are turning or changing lanes.
n Be observant. Recognize hazards early by keeping your eyes moving and your attention on the road. Watch for shaded areas, bridges, and overpasses that can freeze much sooner than the rest of the roadway and stay frozen long after the sun has risen. Keep an eye out for snowplows and give equipment operators plenty of room to work.
n Stay alert for changes on a road‘s surface that may affect traction. Remember that ice and snow are most dangerous when the temperature is at or near the freezing mark. If conditions become severe, pull over to a safe and legal parking area as soon as you can and wait for conditions to improve.
Remember, in any wintry weather conditions, be aware and practice safe preventative measures. Always use your best judgment when out and about in the ice and snow. Be careful and aware of your surroundings, and you will be on your way to a safe winter.
Take it slow on ice and snow!
— Occupational Safety and Health,
Human Resources, 12-12-24
