Black Ice Recognition and Response Safety

Key Hazards

• Slips and falls on nearly invisible ice
• Vehicle loss of control on untreated surfaces
• False sense of safety when pavement looks wet
• Icy bridges, shaded areas, ramps, and parking lots
• Workers stepping from vehicles onto slick surfaces
• Delayed treatment or warning of icy areas

2–3 Minute Talk Script

Black ice is dangerous because it can be difficult to see. Pavement, sidewalks, steps, ramps, and parking lots may look wet or clear while a thin layer of ice is present.

Black ice often forms when temperatures are near or below freezing, especially after rain, melting snow, refreezing, fog, or moisture on cold surfaces. Bridges, shaded areas, low spots, metal surfaces, and untreated pavement can freeze first.

Workers should slow down when walking in possible icy conditions. Short steps, flat-footed walking, using handrails, and keeping hands free can reduce the chance of a fall.

Extra caution is needed when stepping out of vehicles or equipment. The surface near doors, running boards, truck steps, and parking areas may be slick even when the rest of the site looks safe.

Drivers should reduce speed and avoid sudden braking, sharp steering, or quick acceleration when black ice is possible. A vehicle may lose traction before the driver realizes the surface is frozen.

Areas with suspected black ice should be treated, barricaded, or reported. Salt, sand, warning signs, cones, or temporary closure may be needed until the surface is safe.

Workers should not assume that sun exposure or daytime temperatures have removed the hazard. Refreezing can occur when temperatures drop again, especially in shaded or low-traffic areas.

Black ice safety depends on recognizing subtle conditions and reacting early. If a surface looks wet during freezing weather, treat it as potentially icy until proven otherwise.

Safety Reminders

• Treat wet-looking surfaces as possible ice in freezing weather.
• Use short steps and avoid rushing.
• Use handrails on steps and ramps.
• Be careful when entering or exiting vehicles.
• Reduce vehicle speed and avoid sudden movements.
• Report or treat icy areas immediately.
• Watch bridges, shaded areas, ramps, and parking lots closely.

Ask the Crew

• Where is black ice most likely today?
• Are sidewalks, steps, ramps, and parking areas treated?
• Could workers slip when stepping out of vehicles?
• Are drivers adjusting speed for possible ice?
• How will icy areas be reported, marked, or treated?