If it hasn’t already, snow will soon be falling in many parts of the country. Following are some safe snow removal tips employers can share with employees to help avoid injury, both on and off the job. 

·           Stretch for a couple of minutes before shoveling to loosen up back, shoulder, neck, arm, and leg muscles.

·           Pace yourself as you shovel to prevent overexertion.  Start slow and give yourself a chance to warm up.  Once you are warmed up, maintain a steady  pace to reduce stress on your body.

·           Lift smaller amounts when snow is heavy and wet.

·           Breathe in while lifting and out while throwing.

·           Keep your feet shoulder width apart for balance.

·           Hold the shovel close to your body for better leverage and less strain.

·           Push snow rather than lifting it when possible, especially when the snow is heavy.  For example, push snow to the edge of walkways and then lift and throw it.  This way you avoid continual lifting and you don't have to throw snow as far.

Management 2000, a Professional Employer Organization in Indiana, has experienced Safety and HR professionals who can help employers develop effective safety policies. By conducting safety audits and providing HR management training, these professionals help employers keep their employees safe and injury-free. For more information about all the human resource management services Management 2000 provides, call (317) 549-2000 or visit www.management2000.com.