Article

Winter will most likely bring wet and slippery conditions across the state over the next several months. The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation has compiled the safety resources and reminders you need to get you through the cold winter days and nights on the farm, hopefully accident and incident free.

Unfortunately, 1 in 6 accidents reported to the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation are related to slips, trips and falls. The best course of action to avoid an accident is to work to correct potential hazards before they have the chance to lead to injury. Here are some key ways to keep you and your team protected.

Identify potential hazards

Survey your workplace to determine areas that could result in a fall, especially in inclement weather. Look for areas that are poorly lit, have slippery or uneven surfaces, and that may contain objects such as hoses, cords, buckets, and farm tools and equipment. Determine the steps to take to control and eliminate these potential causes for falls.

Wear winter gear

If you are working outdoors, wear appropriate coats, hats, gloves and shoes that will protect your feet from the elements and make sure your shoes provide good traction. Remove or wipe off wet shoes before coming inside to prevent creating wet surfaces inside. A mat and signage can be used to aid in ensuring wet items don’t bring slips, trips and falls inside.

Check lighting

Make sure everyone on your team knows to inform management if lighting is not working properly in or around your work areas. Replacing any poor lighting should be a top priority during winter.

Keep it clean & tidy

Keep work and entrance areas tidy. This means not leaving shovels and other snow/ice removal equipment cluttered in entrance areas. Clear all walkways of debris, equipment, and winter gear.

Observe ladder safety

If you have to use a ladder, make sure it’s resting on a clean, dry and stable surface. Follow the directions and keep off the top steps. If you have to reach for something, move the ladder.

Safety bonus

In addition, if you would like to make sure you don’t slip up this winter, you can schedule a free safety consultation by calling 1-800-644-6292 or submitting a request online. Please have your BWC policy number ready. A safety consultant will contact you within two business days.

Consider attending the 2024 Ohio Safety Congress & Expo at the Greater Columbus Convention Center, March 27-29, 2024. This popular event will offer educational sessions and continuing education on a variety of topics, including business strategies, manufacturing safety, safety management systems, technology and innovations and much more.

Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation

Established in 1912, the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation is the exclusive provider of workers’ compensation insurance in Ohio, serving 249,000 public and private employers. With nearly 1,600 employees and assets of approximately $25 billion, BWC is one of the largest state-run insurance systems in the United States. For more, visit bwc.ohio.gov.