A message from Trent University’s Multi-Site Joint Health and Safety Committee

Slips, trips and falls at work are more common due to wet, slippery conditions at work, inside and out. People who work outdoors are susceptible to cold stress, hypothermia, and frostbite. There is also an increased risk of vehicle collisions for drivers due to slippery surfaces, snowstorms and reduced visibility.

Below are some ideas for controlling these top three winter hazards.

1. Slips, trips and falls

• Walk slowly and deliberately, focused on the path ahead
• Where possible, avoid slippery surfaces, such as wet leaves, icy areas and snowbanks. Only use walkways that are maintained, do not take unmaintained shortcuts
• Wear appropriate footwear with slip-resistant soles. Ice grippers that attach to your footwear can provide additional traction while walking outdoors in the winter.
• Use handrails where available
• Check to make sure entrance areas and stairs are clear of snow and slush. Tracked in snow and slush often causes slips and falls
• Clean your shoes when you go inside. Caked snow and ice on shoe soles can be treacherous
• Report all slips, trips and falls that result in injury to your supervisor immediately, as well as hazards that could result in a slip, trip, or fall
• Request maintenance service for hazardous workplace conditions by emailing fixit@trentu.ca, including the location and a description of the hazard (a photo is also very helpful if possible)

2. Cold stress

Cold stress, the inability to maintain core body temperature, can lead to frostbite and hypothermia which can be life-threatening. Employees who work outside part or all the time are at risk. A workplace cold stress prevention program should include:

• Training for supervisors and workers on the hazards, health effects and prevention of cold-related illness. This includes safe work practices, re-warming procedures, clothing and personal protective equipment, how to recognize cold stress/frostbite, and signs and symptoms of hypothermia
• Monitoring of outdoor workers by a supervisor
• Acclimatizing new employees to working in the cold
• Providing adequate rest breaks and warming shelters
• Organizing work so that people alternate between working in the cold and working in a warm environment.

3. Winter driving

Under the Occupational Health and Safety Act, any vehicle used for work purposes – whether company-owned or personal – is considered an extension of the workplace. The following winter driving safety tips are essential for all drivers, not just those operating vehicles for work-related tasks, to ensure a safe and secure driving experience during the colder months.

Safe driving:

• Use snow tires
• Slow down and adjust speed for weather and road conditions
• Check road and weather conditions before you head out
• Allow more time to get to where you are going
• Understand how your car handles in winter
• Keep a safe distance from other cars

Vehicle prep:

• Check defrosters/heaters, antifreeze levels, brakes and battery
• Ensure lights and indicators are working
• Use winter-specific wiper blades and carry extra windshield washer fluid
• Completely clean the outside of your car before you leave; chunks of ice and snow can pose a hazard to you and others on the road
• Keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent moisture in the fuel line
• Carry winter survival gear including a blanket, first aid kit, food that won't spoil (granola bars), water, matches, extra clothing and boots, shovel, flashlight, flares and booster cables