General Liability Insurance: Avoid Winter Slip-Ups

Here’s a general liability insurance claim waiting to happen. Check out this video…..8 minutes of people falling over the same patch of ice. It’s actually pretty entertaining.

The winter months bring general liability insurance hazards that are typically not factors for during warmer weather – especially, slip and fall hazards. With snow and ice-covered conditions, you run the risk of taking major spills.

Consider the following recommendations to prevent slip and fall injuries during the winter months

• Wear the proper footwear that provides traction on snow and ice. Footwear should be made of anti-slip material; avoid plastic and leather-soled shoes or boots.
• Be cautious when entering and exiting vehicles, and use the vehicle for balance and support.
• Try to walk only in designated areas that are safe for foot traffic. If you notice that a walkway is covered in ice, walk on the grass next to the sidewalk, which will have more traction.
• Avoid inclines that are typically difficult to walk up or down as they may be more treacherous in winter conditions.
• Take small steps to maintain your center of balance, walk slowly and never run. When possible, walk with your hands free to maintain your balance. And despite the cold temperatures, avoid putting your hands in your pockets. This will help you better maintain your balance and allow you to break a fall should you slip.
• Use handrails, walls or anything stationary to assist in steadying your feet.
• Look ahead to the path in front of you to avoid hazards.
• Test a potentially slippery area before stepping on it by tapping your foot on the surface first.
• Remove debris, water and ice from all working walkways.
• Steer clear of roof edges, floor openings and other drop-offs to avoid slipping hazards.
• Sand or salt surfaces covered by ice or snow to provide traction.
• Dry your shoes or boots on floor mats when entering a building.
• If you’re at work, report trip and fall hazards immediately to your supervisor.

-JK

Source: Zywave