With the recent adverse weather, it is crucial to be aware of the risks associated with icy conditions around our workplaces, and to mitigate these as much as possible. Slips Trips and Falls are our main cause of incidents during winter months.
This week our UK operations have suffered three incidents directly relating to ice: a contractor slipped on the ice while walking onto site resulting in a fracture to a bone in their ankle. In this instance, the contractor used the vehicle access, rather than the pedestrian entrance. It was subsequently identified that the pedestrian access gate was frozen shut, a situation that had occurred previously.
At another site an arctic vehicle entered the yard, the driver lost control due to the icy conditions, resulting in a collision with the stairway adjacent to the bay. The impact caused the platform to penetrate the cab through the windscreen, leading to considerable damage – see image. Fortunately, the driver did not suffer any injuries, although he was understandably shaken by the event. This incident was recorded as a HiPo. Another incident earlier in the day at the same site, involved the driver of a loading shovel losing control on the ice and striking the barrier surrounding the settlement pit. Again, there were no injuries reported, but there was damage to the barrier.
These incidents highlight the importance for Site Managers to:
- Assess the level of risk relating to the icy conditions and, where necessary, restricting access or closing a site until conditions are safe to continue.
- Following an incident, act swiftly to remove the hazards to avoid a repeat incident.
- Report and resolve known issues relating to icy conditions in a timely manner to avoid unsafe behaviours, ensuring they are documented through the near miss / hazard alert system.
Slips on ice can result in various injuries, from minor bruises to severe fractures and head injuries. Injuries can lead to time off work, affecting productivity and team dynamics. Incidents leading to damaged vehicles and buildings can increase costs and have a direct impact on both our company and our customers and contractors.
To ensure everyone’s safety, please ensure these steps are followed:
Ways to reducing risks caused by ice:
* If conditions are severe, assess if access needs to be restricted or sites need to be temporarily closed until conditions improve or sites can be made safe.
* Stop, think and check it is safe, and always STEP IN if you see anything unsafe.
* Apply salt or sand to walkways and carparks to improve traction and melt ice.
* Walk Carefully: Take small, deliberate steps and keep your hands free to help maintain balance. Always use handrails when available, especially on stairs and ramps, using three points of contact. Ensure you wear shoes with good traction to prevent slips.
* Consider deferring non-urgent maintenance tasks.
* Report Hazards: Immediately report any icy patches or hazards. Step In.
* Stay Informed: Pay attention to weather forecasts and plan accordingly.
By following these guidelines, we can significantly reduce the impact of freezing conditions and ensure a safer working environment for everyone.
Look after each other and step in if someone isn’t taking care.