Safety Bulletin: Knee Injury Due to Slipping on Ice
A recent incident highlighted the importance of proactive measures to prevent slips and falls in icy conditions. A team member slipped on a snow-and-ice-covered pathway between buildings, resulting in a knee injury. Although the hazards had been communicated, and the employee was aware of the icy conditions, the pathway had not been adequately treated with sand that morning. Additionally, the employee was not wearing traction control footwear, which contributed to the severity of the fall.
Upon investigation, the root cause was identified as a delay or lack of prioritization in applying sand or de-icing agents to high-traffic pathways before workers began their tasks. This gap in timely action exposed workers to preventable hazards.
Regardless of whether pathways are treated by the general contractor, employees must remain aware of the hazards and take preventative measures to mitigate the risks. Wearing traction control footwear or ice cleats is essential to reduce the risk of slipping on untreated surfaces.
Corrective actions include establishing clear protocols to ensure critical paths are treated for ice and snow before employees arrive. Additionally, all employees are reminded to use proper footwear and safety measures to protect themselves in icy conditions. These steps will enhance site safety and help prevent similar incidents in the future.
We now offer two options for traction aids to accommodate the different styles of soles on safety-toed boots. The K-1 Mid-sole cleats are designed for boots with a heal, providing added grip and stability. For boots with more of a flat sole, the YAKTRAX chain traction device is an excellent choice, offering durable chain links that wrap around the sole to improve traction on icy or slippery surfaces. Both options enhance safety and help prevent slips and falls in hazardous conditions.
Both of these traction devices are available through Alliance Safety or contact your Safety Professional for assistance.
Let’s all stay vigilant and prioritize safety to keep our team’s injury-free!
YAKTRAX Chain Traction Device
K1 Mid Sole Cleats