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Winter conditions have firmly set in and layers of snow and ice pack under foot – prime conditions for a serious fall, but a fun time to emulate the walking style of a certain stoutly tuxedo-wearing bird.
In safety circles, it’s commonly referred to as the "penguin walk" and it’s a squatty stride that can help pedestrians navigate tricky ground, even when it’s been treated with salt or sand.
The recommended procedure involves bending slightly at the knee, walking flat-footed and keeping one’s centre of gravity over the feet. Also, it’s important to keep the arms free, take short steps and concentrate on keeping balanced. Another vital key: proceed slowly.
Provincial Safety Manager Ben Beaton, of Nova Scotia Health’s Occupational Health Safety and Wellness Department, highlighted the importance of getting messages of safety understood and accepted.
“Obviously, I want to people to get to, from and be at work safety, so, things like walking like a penguin and mindful of conditions is important,” said Beaton. “Precipitation on the ground can create hazards. Always proceed accordingly and with caution.”
Nova Scotia Health embraced the intent of the penguin walk a couple of years ago. An actual penguin suit was acquired and worn to bring attention. It worked.
“It’s not something you learn in safety school,” Beaton added, “it indicates how effectively to move even when the ground is treated as it should be.”
It doesn’t take much to result in a slip-and-fall. Already this winter, there have been employee injuries and damage to personal belongings related to falls on slippery grounds.
Proper footwear is important, Beaton added. “Some people may wear boots or shoes for years and just not think about the lack of treads, which affects grip on the ground. There may be slippery spots you just don’t see and some of our worst injuries we see are slips on ice,” he said.
“If you’re leaving a building, be sure to put on winter footwear when you’re walking to your home, the bus or your own vehicle. That’s a huge thing.”
Beaton recommends having a first aid kit on hand in your vehicle, along with a flashlight, a small shovel and, if conditions are such that you’re stranded for a bit, a blanket.
Another important piece of advice: ensure walkways and places where people are ordinarily expected to navigate are clear of snow and ice. Beaton said if people notice a potential safety risk, to always report it to the appropriate manager or maintenance official.