Navigating Wet Weather and Walking Surfaces

Wet weather can create dangerous walking surfaces both indoors and outdoors, presenting serious slipping hazards for you and your co-workers. These surfaces may stem from various weather conditions, including heavy rain, snow, sleet, ice or hail. Fortunately, there are several steps that you can take to ensure safe walking surfaces when wet weather strikes on the job and better protect yourself and others. 

Minimizing Wet Surfaces

Each work area is different, so the way you deal with wet walking surfaces may vary. Nevertheless, following these general guidelines is a good start:

• Use provided caution signs to clearly identify when a surface is wet or likely to become wet, and remove this signage as soon as the surface is dry.
• Check for equipment and electrical currents that may not be grounded and wires that are not insulated near wet areas. Never use electrical equipment while standing on a wet surface.
• Use any available floor mats and umbrella stands at building entrances to reduce tracking in water from outside.
• Wear slip-resistant shoes, such as sneakers with deep treads and boots with rubber soles.
• Report any wet areas you notice to your supervisor as quickly as possible.

Handling Slipping Hazards

If you can’t avoid walking on a wet surface at work, consider these tips to reduce the risk of slipping:

• Slow down. Rushing through your job assignments is never worth compromising your safety.
• Take small and careful steps to keep your balance centered.
• Walk with your feet pointed slightly outward to form a stable base.
• Make wide turns at corners.
• Use handrails whenever they are available. If they aren’t, keep your hands out for additional balance.
• Refrain from multitasking or engaging in any distractions. Stay focused on the surface you are walking on.
• Don’t assume the surface is uniform. Be prepared for slick patches.

Contact your supervisor for further workplace safety guidance.

Article Published By: Zywave, Inc.