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Editor's note: For information concerning Laboratory closures during inclement weather call the UPDATE hotline at 667-6622 or check the Daily Newsbulletin (remember to click the "Reload" button often). If at home and wondering if the Lab is on a delayed opening schedule or closed for the day, call the hotline early in the morning. Listen to the news on radio or television stations.

Caution urged on sidewalks, parking areas around Lab

The recent bout of winter weather has made for some picture postcard scenes around the Laboratory and downtown, but it also presents potential danger for pedestrians.

Last week's snowstorm prompted more than two dozen calls to the Health, Safety and Radiation Protection (HSR) Division safety hotline from Lab workers who slipped and fell on icy sidewalks, walkways and parking lots, said Mary Jo McGrath, the Lab's safety concerns program manager in HSR.

She said KSL Services personnel have quickly responded to problem areas around the Lab. But she said ice buildup in parking lots continues to pose a danger and urged Lab employees to be cautious when exiting and entering their vehicles and walking through parking lots.

Here are some winter weather safety suggestions:

• Wear footwear that is appropriate for weather conditions. Flat shoes with slip-resistant soles, or rain/snow boots are best since they provide traction.
• If required to work on an icy surface, cleats should be provided by the supervisor.
• Be observant. Watch out for ice that may be covered by snow. Take note of buildings that have snow and ice accumulation on the roof.
• Walk slowly and stay alert. Take short flat steps with feet slightly spread.
• Watch for warning signs in areas where danger is most prominent. Always use handrails on steep inclines and stairways.
• When entering buildings, clean footwear. Report hazardous conditions to a facility manager during normal work hours or to Emergency Management and Response (S-8) at 7-6211 outside of normal work hours.
• Don't carry large or otherwise cumbersome packages on icy surfaces. Leave them in the car until the ice and snow have been cleared.
• In the event of a fall, there are ways to help prevent or mitigate serious injury. Be prepared to just sit down if you feel yourself losing your balance.
• Comply with all Laboratory notices regarding delayed openings and early closures.

McGrath added that if possible, workers first to arrive at the workplace are asked to apply de-icer to the building approach before starting other work.

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