To Grit or Not To Grit
Don’t be put off clearing paths in fear someone will get hurt. Anyone walking on snow and ice has responsibility for themselves. You can do a good deed without the fear of court!
If you have taken the sensible approach and cleared a path carefully but somehow a person still slips there, it is unlikely that you will be sued or even held responsible. The emphasis should be on the word ‘carefully’ here as there are recommended ways to clear snow and ice that prevent residual risks. For example, have you seen people pouring water out? Yes, it may dissolve the snow or ice, but it is probable that the temperature is still low enough for that water to then freeze and create black ice. See the top tips below for more guidance.
The most common method used to de-ice floors is gritting as it is relatively cheap, quick to apply and easy to spread. Rock salt (plain and treated) is the most commonly used ‘grit’. It is the substance used on public roads by the highways authority.
Public Areas: The highways authority carry out gritting of roads and pavements based on their assessment of traffic volumes. You can contact your local authority for more information on their gritting policy. There is no law stopping you from clearing a pavement, in fact it has been encouraged by the government as a gesture of good public and community spirit, however, it is an offence to clear snow and ice onto a road or pavement.
Employers Responsibilities: Under health and safety law, an employer must provide safe routes into, around and out of the workplace.
So, do you have a gritting policy? It is recommended to have a policy supported by suitable information and training to ensure the task can be effectively carried out.
Divert pedestrians to less slippery walkways until the snow and ice can be cleared and grit applied.
If you do clearance and gritting yourself, is the person suitably trained and equipped? This may seem ‘overkill’ but the result of not clearing snow and ice effectively can be just as dangerous as not clearing it at all! Provide them with sufficient information and guidance as well as any equipment and protective clothing they would need.
Top tips to effectively clear snow and ice:
DO clear the snow/ice early in the day. It is easier to move when fresh and not yet compacted and any sunshine will help to melt any beneath.
DO use grit. Be careful as excess salt can be hazardous. Sand or Ash can also be used, although it won’t work as well if you do not have access to grit it will help provide grip underfoot.
DON’T use water – It can freeze and turn into black ice – invisible and very slippery
DON’T block drains, paths or roads with cleared snow
DO pay extra attention to steps and inclines
Be a good neighbour – If you have people nearby with health problems, disabilities, perhaps elderly neighbours, don’t be afraid to help them out using the above effective measures.
If you need assistance with your gritting policy or premise management, call or email us – 01948 871 373 or enquiries@safetyfor.co.uk