FLOOR SAFETY
ON THE LOOK OUT
The need for good maintenance in all workplaces is critical to help prevent injuries. With this in mind Chris Budd, Head of UK Sales at Watco, advises how employers and empolyess can stay safe over the winter period.
Slip and fall accidents are one of the top causes of injuries in the workplace and they are far more prevalent in the winter.
MAKE A PLAN The first step is to make a plan and assess your workplace’s risk. It is best to start outdoors and work your way inside. Identify outdoor areas that will be used by pedestrians and are most likely to be affected by snow and ice such as outdoor steps, pavements, driveways, ramps, and car parks. Look for anything that could pose a possible hazard.
PUT YOUR PLAN IN PLACE After you have discovered the potential problem areas outside, it is time to put your plan into place. Cover walkways to prevent snow from accumulating or ice forming, place warning cones or signs, keep adequate supplies of snow and ice removal tools in readily accessible areas, and shovel and apply ice melt as often as necessary to keep walking areas clear and slip free.
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ASSESSING OVERHEAD RISK Often forgotten is the overhead risk from falling ice and melting snow on the roof. If the building has a flat roof, it is easy enough to simply shovel the rooftop. If the roof is sloped, the safest way to remove ice and snow is with a snow rake. Making sure that you are standing at a safe distance away on the ground, not on the roof, pull off the snow with a long-handled roof rake.
UNDERFOOT RISK Asphalt and tarmac are an increased risk because the ice tends to be invisible on the dark surface. One preventative measure is to add anti- slip paint to any pedestrian walkways. GRP is also a good winter safety product, as it is one of the best forms of slip resistance you can apply to your workplace for winter walking safety, which is useful for external and internal applications.
INDOOR MAINTENANCE Once you have secured the outside of the building it is time to move
inside. Keep your floors clean, dry and free of obstructions and limit walking to designated walkways as much as possible.
Concrete can become extremely slippery when wet, so an anti slip coating can help prevent slips, while protecting floors from contaminants. Water trap mats are also helpful in entrance ways and walkways subject to water or snow accumulation, as are anti-fatigue mats which decrease the risk of slips, as well as provide ergonomic support for the workforce.
CONSTANT INSPECTION Constantly inspect for problem areas as the winter season continues. Keeping the premises in top condition is an essential part of running any successful business. Employers should ensure the workplace is a space that all employees deserve. With prevention and maintenance firm’s can help reduce the risk of someone slipping and falling.
www.watco.co.uk www.tomorrowshs.com
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