Snow shoveling safety tips for a safer winter

Every winter, snow shoveling leads to thousands of injuries, including back strains, shoulder sprains, and slips on icy surfaces. With a little preparation and safety knowledge, your team can avoid these risks and stay safe while clearing snow. Here are some key snow shoveling safety tips, including how to prevent slips, trips, and falls.

Eliminate shoveling when possible

Wherever possible, use machines like plows, snow blowers, or power brooms instead of manual shoveling. These tools can save time and help reduce the strain and injury risks associated with lifting and pushing snow.

Shovel early and often

Don't wait for snow to pile up. Shovel early when snow is light and manageable. By performing snow maintenance regularly, you can help prevent it from becoming packed down or too heavy to clear safely.

Practice good form

Shoveling with poor form can lead to strain and injury. Instead of lifting snow, try to push it forward, like you would with a plow. Avoid twisting your body to throw snow over your shoulder—this motion can lead to serious injuries. Walk the snow to its destination and drop it to avoid unnecessary strain. The right shovel can also make a big difference. A bent-handle shovel helps keep you in a more upright posture and reduces strain on your back by over 16%.

Use a smaller shovel

A smaller shovel means less snow per load, which reduces the strain on your body. If snow buildup is an issue, consider using a silicone-based lubricant or furniture polish on the shovel to prevent snow from sticking.

Choose footwear carefully

To prevent slips while shoveling, employees should wear boots with deep treads for traction, as well as rubber or neoprene soles. Ice cleats can provide extra grip but should be removed before entering a building to avoid slips indoors.

Take care of yourself

Shoveling is a physically demanding task. If someone is usually sedentary or has medical conditions, they may not be suited for the job. Dress in layers, start slow, stretch before beginning, and take regular breaks. Staying hydrated is important, so keep a water bottle handy.

Prevent slips, trips, and falls on walkways

Winter storms can make outdoor walkways more dangerous. It's important to manage these surfaces effectively and address potential hazards.

Audit walkways before the snow falls

Before snow covers the ground, inspect walkways for hidden hazards such as potholes, elevation changes, or drainage spouts that could cause slips. Even small, hidden problems can pose a risk once they’re obscured by snow or ice.

Pretreat walkways

Prevent snow and ice from bonding to surfaces by applying brine to sidewalks before a storm. This simple step can make snow removal much easier. According to the Snow & Ice Management Association (SIMA), pretreating with brine uses up to 75% less salt and requires far less labor than deicing after snow has fallen.

Remove snow strategically

Identify high-traffic areas and begin snow maintenance where it will have the most impact. Pay special attention to curb lines and steps, where snow tends to accumulate.

Don’t overuse salt

While ice melt is helpful, it’s important to clear as much snow and ice as possible before applying it. Once the ice melt has done its job, remove the slush to avoid damage to surfaces and prevent refreezing.

Increase traction without salt

For areas where ice melt could damage new concrete or landscaping, consider using sand, oil absorbent, or poultry grit to increase traction.

Monitor conditions

During a storm, keep an eye on the weather and snow accumulation throughout the day. If temperatures rise enough to melt ice, be aware of black ice that can form overnight and remain slippery even into spring.

By following these snow shoveling safety tips, you can reduce the risk of injury and keep your team safe through the winter months. Prioritize safety when shoveling snow and managing walkways to prevent accidents and ensure your employees stay safe.