But before I kick up my heels and pretend to be Gene Kelly, let me grab my umbrella and slip on my rain boots! And, since I am a safety professional, you can bet your soggy socks that I’ll be avoiding complicated dance moves. No tap dancing or tangos—I’m playing it safe with a simple country two-step.
Speaking of steps, here are a few steps worth taking as we prepare for a spring season of rain, wind and various unpredictables:
- Remind yourself to move more slowly and carefully. Its tempting to hurry as you try to get out of the rain or wind more quickly, however, surfaces can be slippery so take your time, work more slowly and deliberately to prevent slipping and falling.
- Wear appropriate outerwear. Being cold and wet is miserable and you may tend to focus more on that than on the work at hand.
- Make sure you can see and be seen. Apply an anti-fog solution to glasses or goggles or before going outside, be aware that hoods and hats can reduce your range of vision, and wear bright-colored, reflective vests or rain gear, even during the day.
Here are some more tips from the National Safety Council on choosing the right gear to help you safely “weather” the transition into spring.
And now, back to the Conga line! Stay safe, everyone.
Holli Singleton
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Holli Singleton is the Assistant Director of Safety & Health Services at NC State Industry Expansion Solutions. In addition to managing the services offered by the Safety and Health Specialists, she develops and presents workplace safety and health education courses, conducts work site assessments and provides occupational safety and environmental assistance to employers throughout the southeastern region of the United States.
