You don’t see penguins slip and fall on ice.
Know why?
· They walk flat footed
· They take shorter steps
· They concentrate on maintaining balance
· They keep their head up and don’t lean forward
Do the penguin shuffle to be safe this winter.
Source: SFM Work Comp Experts
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
More Winter Slip and Fall Tips
Tips for wintertime walking to avoid slips and falls
It is the time of year when slips and falls can occur. The following information provides sound advice for increasing your awareness of your surroundings when walking on sidewalks, walkways, parking lots, and building entrances.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2007, for all nonfatal occupational injuries, it was noted that floors, walkways, and ground surfaces were the source of injury or illness for 20 percent of all days-away-from-work cases. This represented an increase by 7 percent from 2006 for this same category.
The National Census of Fatal Occupational Statistics Summary Report for 2008 released on August 20, 2009 indicated that the number of fatal falls on the same level increased slightly in 2008. Fatal workplace falls, which had risen to a series high in 2007, also declined by 20 percent in 2008. 680 fatal falls occurred in 2008; this is a 20 percent decline from a high of 847 fatal falls in 2007.
How to prevent slips and falls
It is important to always wear the proper footwear for the time of year. As the temperature drops and water on surfaces freeze, a good pair of winter boots with proper traction will be helpful. Boots with a non-slip tread sole, which is warm and well insulated, should have wide, low heels. For daily winter walking, it might be more helpful for the boot to be light in weight and waterproof, but if your walk to work requires trekking in deeper snow, a heavier boot might be needed. Rainy conditions might require a light boot that is waterproof, less bulky yet stable and should be warm to prevent hypothermia. Shoes or boots with leather or plastic soles should be avoided on slippery, wet, icy surfaces. Boots with good rubber treads or over-shoes with rubber treads are suggested for wintertime walking.
How do I walk safely on snow and ice?
• Always observe your surroundings. This applies when parking your car, walking to and from your car, as well as walking to and from work. Take note of walking distances and surface conditions before your park your car. If possible, plan your route and allow sufficient time to reach your destination.
• Do not hurry and jump out of your car. Swing both legs around and position yourself with both legs squarely in front of you and feet properly positioned on the ground (avoiding ice if possible). Support your arms by holding onto the vehicle and then carefully stand up.
• Before you take a step, take a deep breath and relax. Bend and relax your knees, walk slowly, and take small steps to maintain your center of balance over your feet.
• Walk carefully, anticipate the possibility of falling, and never run or hurry on icy walkways. Walking slowly will help you to react quickly to a change in traction if needed.
• Keep your eyes focused on where you are going and plan your next steps and moves.
• To help your balance, keep your hands at your sides and not in your pockets.
• If handrails or railings are available, use them, but be sure to wear your gloves to help protect from the elements and assist with your gripping ability.
• Avoid carrying big or bulky items and try never to carry heavy boxes or items on stairways when in slippery, wet or icy conditions. If you need to carry items, try to keep one hand free to hold onto railings and try to make sure your vision is not obstructed.
Other key points to remember
When transitioning from outside to inside during wet, icy, snowy conditions, various walking surface changes are usually present. Snow removal or clearing of ice may or may not have been completed by the time you arrive at your office, and sometimes these areas may become icier over time. These conditions also continue to change as additional precipitation may occur, the sun shines and the temperatures continue to vary. Do not assume that just because the snow was cleared away that the surface is no longer slippery.
• Try to avoid taking shortcuts and walk in designated paths. Looks for signs and note that sidewalk edges near grass may help with traction, but could also be hazardous if there is a drop-off at the edge. Be cautious of uphill and downhill sections and rest as needed.
• Snow melt de-icing products may be used, but may not melt as quickly due to the temperature, and can become little rocks on the surface of sidewalks and streets. These little rocks can aid in traction or could possibly roll under your shoes. Be alert and focused. The products that melt the snow and ice could refreeze and become even more slippery depending on the temperature and conditions. Sand or other abrasives may be used or added to the treatments to help with traction. Surface streets may be treated with magnesium chloride or similar products, which can be slippery when initially applied and when over-applied. Be careful on these walking surfaces, even when treated with anti-icing or de-icing products.
• Do not let your guard down when entering buildings, as building entrances and floor surface changes can be a challenge. In wet conditions, floor mats can cause additional concerns as moisture may accumulate. Continue to walk slowly and carefully.
• Should you fall, try to relax and avoid extending your arms. Twist your body and try to roll to avoid hitting your face. If you are carrying items, try to toss them to avoid injury from the items.
• Shoe traction devices or ice grippers are available to wear over footwear for walking on ice or hard-packed snow. There are different brands and types that are all usually easy to wear. Be sure to be seated when both putting these items over your shoes and when removing them. When wearing these devices, you still need to walk slowly and carefully. Also note that these devices must be removed before transitioning off the snow to tile, linoleum or indoor floor surfaces since the traction devices can become very hazardous on smooth surfaces.
• When entering a building during rainy conditions, shake your umbrella outside to try to avoid allowing rain droplets that have collected on your umbrella to saturate the indoor entry floor surface. Try to reduce adding additional moisture on the floor mats and surfaces and increasing the potential for slips and falls to occur.
• When approaching crosswalks or crossing streets, be aware of approaching vehicles that may have lost traction and are sliding on the roadways toward you. Vehicles may not stop and you need to be observant at all times.
• If walking at night, wear bright colors or reflective vests to be seen. Remember that the weather and elements may decrease visibility.
It is the time of year when slips and falls can occur. The following information provides sound advice for increasing your awareness of your surroundings when walking on sidewalks, walkways, parking lots, and building entrances.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2007, for all nonfatal occupational injuries, it was noted that floors, walkways, and ground surfaces were the source of injury or illness for 20 percent of all days-away-from-work cases. This represented an increase by 7 percent from 2006 for this same category.
The National Census of Fatal Occupational Statistics Summary Report for 2008 released on August 20, 2009 indicated that the number of fatal falls on the same level increased slightly in 2008. Fatal workplace falls, which had risen to a series high in 2007, also declined by 20 percent in 2008. 680 fatal falls occurred in 2008; this is a 20 percent decline from a high of 847 fatal falls in 2007.
How to prevent slips and falls
It is important to always wear the proper footwear for the time of year. As the temperature drops and water on surfaces freeze, a good pair of winter boots with proper traction will be helpful. Boots with a non-slip tread sole, which is warm and well insulated, should have wide, low heels. For daily winter walking, it might be more helpful for the boot to be light in weight and waterproof, but if your walk to work requires trekking in deeper snow, a heavier boot might be needed. Rainy conditions might require a light boot that is waterproof, less bulky yet stable and should be warm to prevent hypothermia. Shoes or boots with leather or plastic soles should be avoided on slippery, wet, icy surfaces. Boots with good rubber treads or over-shoes with rubber treads are suggested for wintertime walking.
How do I walk safely on snow and ice?
• Always observe your surroundings. This applies when parking your car, walking to and from your car, as well as walking to and from work. Take note of walking distances and surface conditions before your park your car. If possible, plan your route and allow sufficient time to reach your destination.
• Do not hurry and jump out of your car. Swing both legs around and position yourself with both legs squarely in front of you and feet properly positioned on the ground (avoiding ice if possible). Support your arms by holding onto the vehicle and then carefully stand up.
• Before you take a step, take a deep breath and relax. Bend and relax your knees, walk slowly, and take small steps to maintain your center of balance over your feet.
• Walk carefully, anticipate the possibility of falling, and never run or hurry on icy walkways. Walking slowly will help you to react quickly to a change in traction if needed.
• Keep your eyes focused on where you are going and plan your next steps and moves.
• To help your balance, keep your hands at your sides and not in your pockets.
• If handrails or railings are available, use them, but be sure to wear your gloves to help protect from the elements and assist with your gripping ability.
• Avoid carrying big or bulky items and try never to carry heavy boxes or items on stairways when in slippery, wet or icy conditions. If you need to carry items, try to keep one hand free to hold onto railings and try to make sure your vision is not obstructed.
Other key points to remember
When transitioning from outside to inside during wet, icy, snowy conditions, various walking surface changes are usually present. Snow removal or clearing of ice may or may not have been completed by the time you arrive at your office, and sometimes these areas may become icier over time. These conditions also continue to change as additional precipitation may occur, the sun shines and the temperatures continue to vary. Do not assume that just because the snow was cleared away that the surface is no longer slippery.
• Try to avoid taking shortcuts and walk in designated paths. Looks for signs and note that sidewalk edges near grass may help with traction, but could also be hazardous if there is a drop-off at the edge. Be cautious of uphill and downhill sections and rest as needed.
• Snow melt de-icing products may be used, but may not melt as quickly due to the temperature, and can become little rocks on the surface of sidewalks and streets. These little rocks can aid in traction or could possibly roll under your shoes. Be alert and focused. The products that melt the snow and ice could refreeze and become even more slippery depending on the temperature and conditions. Sand or other abrasives may be used or added to the treatments to help with traction. Surface streets may be treated with magnesium chloride or similar products, which can be slippery when initially applied and when over-applied. Be careful on these walking surfaces, even when treated with anti-icing or de-icing products.
• Do not let your guard down when entering buildings, as building entrances and floor surface changes can be a challenge. In wet conditions, floor mats can cause additional concerns as moisture may accumulate. Continue to walk slowly and carefully.
• Should you fall, try to relax and avoid extending your arms. Twist your body and try to roll to avoid hitting your face. If you are carrying items, try to toss them to avoid injury from the items.
• Shoe traction devices or ice grippers are available to wear over footwear for walking on ice or hard-packed snow. There are different brands and types that are all usually easy to wear. Be sure to be seated when both putting these items over your shoes and when removing them. When wearing these devices, you still need to walk slowly and carefully. Also note that these devices must be removed before transitioning off the snow to tile, linoleum or indoor floor surfaces since the traction devices can become very hazardous on smooth surfaces.
• When entering a building during rainy conditions, shake your umbrella outside to try to avoid allowing rain droplets that have collected on your umbrella to saturate the indoor entry floor surface. Try to reduce adding additional moisture on the floor mats and surfaces and increasing the potential for slips and falls to occur.
• When approaching crosswalks or crossing streets, be aware of approaching vehicles that may have lost traction and are sliding on the roadways toward you. Vehicles may not stop and you need to be observant at all times.
• If walking at night, wear bright colors or reflective vests to be seen. Remember that the weather and elements may decrease visibility.
Monday, November 1, 2010
Tips for Preventing Winter Slips and Falls
It’s that time of year where slips and falls occur at an increasing number. No matter how well the snow and ice are removed from parking lots and sidewalks, employees will encounter some slippery surfaces when walking outdoors in the winter. Each year, employees are injured from slips and falls. It is important to be continually aware of the dangers and to walk safely on ice and slippery surfaces.
How to Prevent Winter Slips & Falls
Wear shoes or boots that provide traction on snow and ice. Avoid high heels and shoes without treads.
Use walkways that have been shoveled and sanded or salted, if possible. Walk around snow piles.
Keep both hands free for balance, rather than in your pockets.
Use handrails from start to finish, where available.
Avoid carrying loads on stairs; or carry loads that you can see over.
Look ahead when you walk.
Test potentially slick areas by tapping your foot on them.
Use special care when entering and exiting vehicles; use the vehicle for support.
When given no choice but to walk on ice, consider the following:
Take short steps or shuffle for stability.
Bend slightly; walk flat-footed with your center of gravity directly over the feet.
Be prepared to fall.
If you fall, fall with sequential contacts at your thigh, hip, and shoulder to avoid using your arms to protect against breakage. Try to twist and roll backwards, rather than falling forward.
Bend your back and head forward so you won't slam your head on the pavement.
Relax as much as possible when you begin to fall.
Toss the load you are carrying. Protect yourself instead of the objects being carried.
Finally, when entering buildings:
Use mats to remove moisture from footwear to prevent creating wet, slippery conditions indoors.
Keep mats positioned in front of outside doors.
When slippery spots are encountered, sprinkle salt on the area, or notify facility personnel.
How to Prevent Winter Slips & Falls
Wear shoes or boots that provide traction on snow and ice. Avoid high heels and shoes without treads.
Use walkways that have been shoveled and sanded or salted, if possible. Walk around snow piles.
Keep both hands free for balance, rather than in your pockets.
Use handrails from start to finish, where available.
Avoid carrying loads on stairs; or carry loads that you can see over.
Look ahead when you walk.
Test potentially slick areas by tapping your foot on them.
Use special care when entering and exiting vehicles; use the vehicle for support.
When given no choice but to walk on ice, consider the following:
Take short steps or shuffle for stability.
Bend slightly; walk flat-footed with your center of gravity directly over the feet.
Be prepared to fall.
If you fall, fall with sequential contacts at your thigh, hip, and shoulder to avoid using your arms to protect against breakage. Try to twist and roll backwards, rather than falling forward.
Bend your back and head forward so you won't slam your head on the pavement.
Relax as much as possible when you begin to fall.
Toss the load you are carrying. Protect yourself instead of the objects being carried.
Finally, when entering buildings:
Use mats to remove moisture from footwear to prevent creating wet, slippery conditions indoors.
Keep mats positioned in front of outside doors.
When slippery spots are encountered, sprinkle salt on the area, or notify facility personnel.
Monday, September 13, 2010
Energy Conservation
Saving energy is on everybody's mind these days. Obviously the impact on the environment is large when we all do our part of help reduce energy use. But, equally as important are the dollars we can save by watching our energy use. As our energy manager states in his monthly report, we will notice that we did not save as well this August as compared to last year. It is important that we are keeping this in the forefront of our mind as we go into the heating season. Let's continue to work on doing the little things to save energy. If we all do our part with the little things, we can reduce the number of large things, like operating at lower temperatures. Please see the link to the report for your specific building sent out by Mr. Lund, and let's begin the school year with energy on our minds. Thanks,
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Type III Training
For drivers who have not had training in the past, you will need to attend the training session on Wednesday, September 22, from 5:30-6:30 in room E-113 at the high school.
If you have had training previously, and need the annual refresher, follow these instructions.
Go to: www.dps.state.mn.us/patrol/comveh/index.htm
On the left side click "School Bus"
Then click "Type III School Bus Information"
Finally, click "Type III school bus driver & pre-trip planning"
After watching training, please send me an email indicating you viewed and understand the information.
ehudspith@albertlea.k12.mn.us
Thank you!
If you have had training previously, and need the annual refresher, follow these instructions.
Go to: www.dps.state.mn.us/patrol/comveh/index.htm
On the left side click "School Bus"
Then click "Type III School Bus Information"
Finally, click "Type III school bus driver & pre-trip planning"
After watching training, please send me an email indicating you viewed and understand the information.
ehudspith@albertlea.k12.mn.us
Thank you!
Monday, August 23, 2010
Online Training Instructions
Annual Staff Training—Albert Lea Area Schools
Due to your specific assignment or position in the district, you are required to complete an annual training session. For the 2010-2011 year, these trainings are being presented in an online format. Your responsibility is to complete your assigned training(s) prior to September 10. Each training is divided into 4 or 5 lessons and can be completed in 30-45 minutes. The sessions can also be done in pieces, and you can stop and start at any time during the training. At the end of each lesson is a short quiz which you are required to score 80% on to pass. Scores less than 80% will result in the employee having to restart the lesson and try again. However, I do have the “quiz retake” activated, so you should be able to correct your answers if needed in order to pass the quiz. It is not necessary, but sound is highly recommended for the trainings. Instructions for logging on and selecting your courses are below, along with your particular assignment(s).
· Begin by logging on to http://libertymutualgroup.trainingweb.com/
· This brings you to the Summit Training Web Login Page
· Log in to the system
o In an attempt to save paper/emails, these are the blanket log in instructions. Please contact me with any questions.
o Your login is your first initial and last name. Example: Eric Hudspith is ehudspith
o Individuals with common last names have either a 1 or 123 following their name. Example tlarson1 or ajohnson123
o Your password is your first name. Example: Eric Hudspith password is eric
§ If your name is William, but go by Bill, I probably entered you in with password of bill. If you cannot identify your password, I can quickly find it if you send me an email.
· You will need to “uncheck” the “remember me” box. It will not work if that is checked.
· For any log in troubles, just send me an email. I can pull up your information very quickly and get you going. This is not a “tech” question, so please contact me rather than technology staff.
· Upon logging in you will come to the “My Training Plan” page, where you will see multiple trainings. You only need to complete your assigned trainings. You can begin any training by clicking on its name and following the instructions that follow. Each training is similar to a power point presentation with sound.
· Assignments are as follows:
o Custodians and Maintenance: Bloodborne Pathogens, Asbestos Awareness, Compressed Gas Cylinders, Confined Space Emergency Rescue, and Employee Safety Orientation
o Para-Educators, Special Education Teachers, Coaches, First Aid Providers—Bloodborne Pathogens
o Industrial Tech Teachers, Art Teachers, Food Service Employees—Safety Orientation
o Science Teachers—Lab Safety
o Slips, Trips, and Falls is not required at this time, but highly recommended for all staff.
· When you are finished with your course it will say completed and you are done. You can print the certificate if you like, but it is not necessary.
Due to your specific assignment or position in the district, you are required to complete an annual training session. For the 2010-2011 year, these trainings are being presented in an online format. Your responsibility is to complete your assigned training(s) prior to September 10. Each training is divided into 4 or 5 lessons and can be completed in 30-45 minutes. The sessions can also be done in pieces, and you can stop and start at any time during the training. At the end of each lesson is a short quiz which you are required to score 80% on to pass. Scores less than 80% will result in the employee having to restart the lesson and try again. However, I do have the “quiz retake” activated, so you should be able to correct your answers if needed in order to pass the quiz. It is not necessary, but sound is highly recommended for the trainings. Instructions for logging on and selecting your courses are below, along with your particular assignment(s).
· Begin by logging on to http://libertymutualgroup.trainingweb.com/
· This brings you to the Summit Training Web Login Page
· Log in to the system
o In an attempt to save paper/emails, these are the blanket log in instructions. Please contact me with any questions.
o Your login is your first initial and last name. Example: Eric Hudspith is ehudspith
o Individuals with common last names have either a 1 or 123 following their name. Example tlarson1 or ajohnson123
o Your password is your first name. Example: Eric Hudspith password is eric
§ If your name is William, but go by Bill, I probably entered you in with password of bill. If you cannot identify your password, I can quickly find it if you send me an email.
· You will need to “uncheck” the “remember me” box. It will not work if that is checked.
· For any log in troubles, just send me an email. I can pull up your information very quickly and get you going. This is not a “tech” question, so please contact me rather than technology staff.
· Upon logging in you will come to the “My Training Plan” page, where you will see multiple trainings. You only need to complete your assigned trainings. You can begin any training by clicking on its name and following the instructions that follow. Each training is similar to a power point presentation with sound.
· Assignments are as follows:
o Custodians and Maintenance: Bloodborne Pathogens, Asbestos Awareness, Compressed Gas Cylinders, Confined Space Emergency Rescue, and Employee Safety Orientation
o Para-Educators, Special Education Teachers, Coaches, First Aid Providers—Bloodborne Pathogens
o Industrial Tech Teachers, Art Teachers, Food Service Employees—Safety Orientation
o Science Teachers—Lab Safety
o Slips, Trips, and Falls is not required at this time, but highly recommended for all staff.
· When you are finished with your course it will say completed and you are done. You can print the certificate if you like, but it is not necessary.
Friday, July 30, 2010
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