During winter weather conditions, extra caution is needed. Most people are aware of this situation, but there is always a higher level of automobile accidents during the first few snows of the year. This is because people are notorious for forgetting basic lessons on safety. Keeping this fact in mind, consider the following reminders that will reduce the potential for injuries:
Footwear
Traction is key. Work boots need to provide ankle support and traction. Rubber goulashes are often a good bet to wear over your work boots to maintain the necessary traction and keep your feet dry.
Slips and Falls
Keep work areas clear. Access paths to buildings should be maintained at least three feet wide and should not have accumulations of ice or other slippery conditions. Clean up every day to avoid hidden trip hazards underneath snow. Remember that stairs must remain clean and clear of snow and ice if they are to be used.
CAZ Work
• Top plate must be clean and clear before walked on.
• No roof level work if the sheathing is snow or ice covered.
• Snow removal from roof level requires use of fall protection in the form of full body harness.
• New roof sheathing must be nailed off the same day it is installed to avoid the need to return to that surface the next day.
Ladders
• Securing the bottom of ladders is key to avoid kick-out due to slippery conditions.
• No leaning of step ladders on flat slippery surfaces.
• Secure top of ladder while against Tyvek for setting windows, exterior trim, etc. This material is extremely slippery especially in cold wet conditions.
Driving
• Apply safe driving principles to your workday.
• Snowy weather requires additional awareness & caution Look ahead further, and anticipate possible accidents.
• When driving, move deliberately and steadily.
• Stopping distances should be quadrupled when snow is on the ground. Other
• Wearing additional bulky clothing greatly reduces how agile you can be. This is an important fact to keep in mind when you are climbing ladders, through trusses, etc.
Assurance -
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