Watch Your Step on Wet Surfaces

Wet surfaces always present a workplace hazard. Water on the worksite can come from rain, cleaning and accident spills, wet winter conditions, and activities that require the use of water, resulting in slippery conditions. Slipping on a wet surface can result in bruises, strains and sprains, lacerations, fractures, head trauma, and even fatality. And all that stacks up to lost wages, too.

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Be Aware of Hazards

Each job site is different, so the way you adapt your workplace to wet surfaces will be designed on a case-by-case basis. However, following these general guidelines is a good start.

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·         Clean up spills immediately.

·         Use caution signs to clearly identify when a surface is wet or likely to become wet and remove them as soon as the surface is dry.

·         Barricade affected areas where possible. 

·         Request to work in an alternate area while your workspace is wet.

·         Check for equipment and electrical currents that may not be grounded and wires that are not insulated.

·         Use floor mats at entrances and exits of covered areas to reduce tracking in water from outside.

·         Whenever possible, work under covered areas during wet weather days.

·         Construct temporary shelters such as tents or tarps over worksites that do not have existing overhead coverage.

·         Ensure good drainage to prevent standing water and speed drying.

·         Use pumps to disperse water.

·         Be sure to wear shoes and boots with slip-resistant soles, and clean them if they become muddy.

·         Report any spills or wet areas that you notice to your supervisor.

 

Anti-slip Tips

If you are forced to walk through a wet surface, follow these tips to avoid slipping and falling.

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·         Slow down! Your safety is more important than your rush.

·         Take small steps to keep your balance centered.

·         Walk with your feet pointed slightly outward to form a stable base.

·         Make wide turns at corners.

·         Use handrails if present.

·         Concentrate on the surface you are walking on.

·         Be prepared for slippery patches.

·         Keep your hands out for balance.

 

Cooperate and Stay Alert

We care about your safety. If you have any doubts about the safety of your worksite, whether it concerns a wet surface or another hazard, talk to your supervisor. It takes the cooperation of our entire team to keep our worksite safe!

 

Provided by: Hausmann-Johnson Insurance