When arctic cold gives way to warming temperatures, melting snow and rain followed by overnight freezing create a vicious cycle of melting and freezing. Preparing for those fluctuations prevents slips, falls, and injuries.
How Do You Prepare for Fluctuating Temperatures?
Light the area, test your footing, and watch for refrozen water.
- Keep areas well lit to help identify hazard areas
- Avoid puddles when you can, and if you cannot, step in slowly to make sure they are not frozen
- Maintain three points of contact when climbing off equipment and test your footing before stepping off completely
- Keep the site’s drainage maintained to prevent puddles from building up in the work area
- Work in teams when possible, so someone can hear your calls for help if you fall
- Keep ice-melting materials on hand and use them when needed
