Cold Weather & Outdoor Safety · 2–5 min toolbox talk
Safe Use of Ice Melt
A safety talk covering proper application, surface compatibility, and preventing slip hazards when using ice melt products.
Use this printed script for your tailgate or toolbox talk. Read through the hazards, script, and questions with your crew.
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“Safe Use of Ice Melt”
Key Hazards
- Slips from untreated or overtreated surfaces
- Chemical irritation on skin
- Corrosion of metals and concrete
2–3 Minute Talk Script
Safe use of ice melt is essential for winter maintenance crews, facility workers, and grounds teams. Applying too little leaves walkways icy, while applying too much creates messy residue.
Workers should spread ice melt evenly, focusing on high-traffic and shaded areas that freeze first.
Different ice melt products perform differently in extreme cold—calcium chloride works better at lower temperatures than rock salt.
Wearing gloves prevents irritation and chemical burns.
Safety Reminders
- Apply evenly across walkways.
- Wear gloves when handling ice melt.
- Choose the right product for temperature level.
- Sweep excess material after melting.
Ask the Crew
- Which areas freeze first on our site?
- Is today’s temperature too low for standard salt?