| Preparing for peak season: put a stop to slips and falls |
| While slips and falls are typically associated with winter conditions, such as ice and snow, they can happen any time of the year, in any weather condition. Even a small spot of water on smooth concrete is as slippery as walking on ice. Though they may seem like minor incidents, slips and falls can escalate into very serious injuries that can keep you off the road and cost you a significant amount of money. Using all safety techniques will help prevent slip, trip and fall injuries while off the job as well. |
| One slip can have major consequences |
| After making a delivery, a 33-year-old driver was on his way back to the truck when he slipped on a water spot, twisted his left ankle and chipped the bone. The driver was off work for two months and the injury cost a total of $19,589 in doctor visits, physical therapy, prescriptions and other expenses. |
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| Before peak delivery season begins, it's important to train your drivers and new hires on how to reduce the risk of slips and falls by practicing careful behavior and staying on top of important routine maintenance. |
| Practice careful behavior |
| • Follow proper lifting and carrying techniques. |
| • Use a sturdy stepstool when climbing or reaching high places. |
| • Never run or walk fast. Friction and stability are reduced at a hurried pace, making a slip more likely. |
| • Inspect all surfaces before walking on them. It’s always important to look for obstructions and slick spots that may interfere with walking safely. |
| • Always use three points of contact when entering and exiting a vehicle. |
| • Wear appropriate slip-resistant shoes. Not all synthetic soles are slip-resistant. Periodically check the condition of the soles and replace them as they wear down. Worn soles lose their slip-resistant quality. Protective offers a discount on SR Max slip-resistant shoes, and you can save an additional $5 with code NOV16PROMO when you order by Nov. 30. |
| Stay on top of routine maintenance |
| • Maintain good lighting on both indoor and outdoor walking areas. |
| • Clean up spills immediately. |
| • Secure electrical and phone cords out of traffic areas. |
| • Install handrails on all stairways. |
| • Keep all walking areas clean and clear of clutter. Remove leaves, snow and debris from outdoor walkways. |
| • Periodically check the condition of outdoor walkways and steps, repairing as necessary. |
| • Watch for unsafe walking and working surfaces at locations not under your control. |
| Download our free handout Simple Tips to Avoid Slips to remind yourself of these important techniques for staying on your feet. |
| Safety Solutions video: Preventing Slips & Falls |
| This Safety Solutions video discusses tips to help you avoid slip and fall injuries, including knowing your surroundings, wearing the proper shoes and using three points of contact. Watch now >> |
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| Free Download: Simple Tips to Avoid Slips |
| Don't slip when it comes to safety. Download our handout to remind yourself of techniques for avoiding slips and falls. Download free handout >> |
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| Infinit-i Training Boot Camps |
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Protective customers are invited to attend a special two-day event that focuses on how to implement and utilize an online learning management system. Registration is FREE to Protective policyholders but seating is limited. Learn more >>
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