As any of us in Northeast Ohio can attest, the winter snow and ice can cause serious injuries.  Most companies have a snow shovel and stock of ice melt available, but without a plan in-place to quickly remove snow and ice from walkways and work areas along with monitoring wet areas to assure refreezing does not occur, the risk of falling and striking a hard object (pavement, step or curb) is always present.

OSHA also urges employers and workers removing snow from rooftops to be aware of fall hazards and safeguards.  Along with the hazard from falling icicles or chunks of broken ice, several recent incidents of workers going up on a roof and falling through skylights, one resulting in a fatality, emphasize the need for employers to plan how to inspect a snow-laden surface for its potential to collapse and skylights, for electrical hazards from overhead power lines or snow removal equipment, and for the safest approach to accomplish the task (like using a snow rake from ground level).  Employers should also provide and properly train in the use of personal protective equipment including fall arrest systems and non-slip safety boots, if access to the roof looks like it will be necessary.  By forethought and proper preparation for removing snow and ice hazards, we can keep everyone safe this winter.