Safe Driving on Slippery Roads

Date: 2025-08-12

Duration: [DURATION] minutes

Presenter: [PRESENTER NAME]

Location: [LOCATION]

Objective

The objective of this toolbox talk is to provide participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely operate vehicles on roads with reduced traction, minimizing the risk of accidents and injuries.

Introduction

Driving in slippery conditions requires extra caution and specific techniques to prevent accidents. This toolbox talk will cover essential safety measures for driving on roads affected by ice, snow, or water.

Key Points

• Slow Down: Reduce your speed significantly when driving on slippery surfaces. Posted speed limits are designed for ideal conditions, and reduced traction requires lower speeds to maintain control. [1]
• Increase Following Distance: Increase the following distance between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead. Stopping distances can double on icy roads compared to dry pavement. [1]
• Avoid Cruise Control: Avoid using cruise control in winter conditions. Maintaining full control of the vehicle is essential, and cruise control can hinder your ability to react to changing road conditions. [1]
• Braking Techniques: Brake gently and avoid sudden, jerky movements. If your vehicle has anti-lock brakes (ABS), apply firm, continuous pressure. If it doesn't, use threshold braking (squeezing and releasing the brake pedal). [2]
  • Squeeze braking (also known as threshold braking) and declutching (manual shift) will do the job most efficiently.
  • Use the heel-and-toe method. Keep your heel on the floor and use your toes to press the brake pedal firmly just short of locking up the wheels.
  • Release the pressure on the pedal and press again in the same way.
  • Repeat this until you come to a full stop.
• Smooth Steering: Steer smoothly and avoid abrupt changes in direction. Skidding can occur easily with quick steering maneuvers on ice or snow. [4]
• Vehicle Maintenance: Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained for winter conditions. Check tire pressure, tread depth, and ensure all lights are functioning properly. Consider using snow tires for enhanced traction. [3] [3] [3] [3]
  • Check brakes and adjust to ensure equal braking.
  • Use four snow tires of the same type, size, speed rating, and load index for better handling, control and stability.
  • Check tire pressure and restore it to levels recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.
  • Check the wear of the tires.

Hazard Identification

• Reduced Traction: Loss of control, skidding, collisions with other vehicles or objects. (Risk: High)
• Black Ice: Sudden loss of control due to invisible ice patches, leading to accidents. [1]

(Risk: High)

• Reduced Visibility: Difficulty seeing other vehicles, pedestrians, or hazards, increasing the risk of collisions. (Risk: Medium)
• Increased Stopping Distance: Inability to stop in time to avoid collisions, especially at intersections or in heavy traffic. (Risk: High)
• Stranded Vehicle: Exposure to cold weather, risk of hypothermia, and potential for secondary accidents. (Risk: Medium)

Control Measures

• Reduce Speed: Lower your speed to match the road conditions. The posted speed limit is meant for ideal conditions, not for ice or snow. [1]
• Increase Following Distance: Allow at least double the normal following distance to provide ample time to react and stop. [1]
• Use Winter Tires: Install winter tires for improved traction in snow and ice. Ensure tires are properly inflated and have adequate tread depth. [3]
• Avoid Abrupt Maneuvers: Steer, brake, and accelerate smoothly to prevent skidding. Avoid sudden lane changes or hard braking. [4]
• Prepare a Winter Driving Kit: Carry essential items such as a snow shovel, ice scraper, blankets, flashlight, and first-aid supplies. [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5]
• Plan Your Route: Check weather and road conditions before you leave. Inform someone of your route and estimated arrival time. [5] [1]

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Requirements

• Slip-Resistant Footwear: Wear sturdy, slip-resistant footwear to maintain good traction when entering and exiting the vehicle.
• Gloves: Wear gloves to maintain a firm grip on the steering wheel and other controls, especially in cold weather.
• High-Visibility Vest: Wear high-visibility clothing if you need to exit the vehicle in low-light conditions or near traffic.

Group Discussion

Discuss the following questions:

1. What are some personal experiences you've had driving in slippery conditions?
2. What are the most challenging aspects of winter driving in our area?
3. How can we better prepare our vehicles for winter weather?

Emergency Procedures

1. If you start to skid, remain calm. Steer in the direction you want the vehicle to go. [4]
2. If you get stuck, stay with the vehicle if possible. Turn on hazard lights and call for assistance. [2] [2]
3. Keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning if you need to run the engine for heat. [6]

Summary

Recap of main points:

• Driving on slippery roads requires reduced speed and increased following distance. [1] [1]
• Smooth steering and braking techniques are crucial to prevent skidding. [4]
• Vehicle maintenance and preparation are essential for safe winter driving. [3] [3] [3] [3]
• Carry a winter driving kit and plan your route before traveling. [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5]

Remember: Drive Safe, Arrive Safe: Slippery Roads Demand Extra Caution

Report all hazards, near-misses, and incidents to your supervisor immediately.

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