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FEBRUARY 2011
In This Issue:

How to Prevent and Be Prepared for Workplace Violence


Back Injuries Are Preventable


Walk Cautiously on
the Ice


Spotlight on Safety:
America's Road Team
Captains Named


Safety Message:
Pro-Tread Training Lessons Available


Baldwin & Lyons Elects New CEO


 

Walk Cautiously on the Ice

Pass the following safety tips onto your drivers to help them avoid slips and falls when they walk on the snow and ice this winter:

  • Use extra care when entering or exiting your vehicle
    • Use the vehicle for support by practicing the three-point system of contact
    • Never jump out of your vehicle
  • Walk slowly
  • Look out for black ice
    • Assume that all wet, dark areas on pavement are slippery and icy
    • Dew or water vapor freezes easily, forming an extra-thin, nearly invisible layer of ice
    • Be especially cognizant of black ice early in the morning and in shaded areas
  • Prepare for change in traction
    • Bend your knees
    • Stop occasionally to break momentum
    • Wear shoes or boots made of non-slip rubber or neoprene with grooved soles
  • Maintain your balance
    • Point your feet slightly outward to increase your center of gravity
    • Walk flat on your feet
    • Take short steps or shuffle your feet
    • Keep your hands and arms free
      • Do not carry heavy loads
      • Do not put your hands in your pockets
  • Stay on sidewalks or designated walkways
    • Walk along the grassy edge for added traction
    • Wait for all vehicles to come to a complete stop before crossing a lane of traffic
      • Remember, poor road conditions may prevent motorists from stopping in time
      • Look out for vehicles that have lost traction
    • Avoid shortcuts, especially over snow piles and frozen areas
    • If you must walk on the street, walk against the flow of traffic, close to the curb
  • Remove snow and water from your shoes or boots before entering your trailer or a building
    • Floors, ramps and stairs may be wet and slippery from snow and water being tracked in
  • Protect yourself if you fall
    • Relax your muscles to minimize injuries
    • Try to avoid landing on your knees, wrists or spine
    • Make an effort to fall on a fleshy part of your body
    • If you fall backward, tuck your chin to prevent your head from hitting the ground

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Baldwin & Lyons, Inc.
1099 North Meridian Street, Suite 700 | Indianapolis, IN 46204
(800) 644-5501 | Fax: (317) 632-9444
www.baldwinandlyons.com