b'BY PAUL HARRISON AND JENNY PAYNE, NORTH CENTRAL EDUCATIONAL SERVICE DISTRICT (NCESD), WENATCHEE, WAMapping Out a Snow Plan: Ensuring Safety During Winter ConditionsA s winter approaches, the risk of workplace injuries related to slips and falls on snow and ice increases significantly. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, over 20,000 workplace injuries in 2017 alone were linked to weather-related falls, often resulting in serious consequences such as traumatic brain injuries or even fatalities.UNDERSTANDING THE RISKS such as stepping out of a vehicleESTABLISHING A SNOW PLANMany of these accidents occuror traversing parking lots, canTo address these hazards, most during peak hoursparticularlylead to serious injuries. As safetydistricts implement comprehensive between 6 AM and noonwhenprofessionals, our primary goal is tosnow plans. These plans outline employees rush to work and icymitigate these risks and ensure a safethe procedures for determining conditions prevail. Simple actions,environment for all employees. school cancellations or delays due to adverse weather conditions. Key components include:1. Transportation Procedures: Establishing alternate snow routes and communicating these changes to students and parents.2. Maintenance Protocols: Ensuring maintenance and custodial staff have a clear process for snow removal from parking lots, sidewalks, and roofs.TRAINING FOR SNOW REMOVALIt is vital that all staff members involved in snow removal are adequately trained. Here are some essential guidelines:Dress Appropriately: Employees should wear insulated, waterproof clothing and footwear with good traction. Brightly colored outerwear can enhance visibility.Equipment Safety:Snow Shovels: Ensure usersare physically capable ofusing them.10 WAMOA JOURNALFALL 2024'