What precautions should you take when climbing into a wheel loader on icy steps?

• A. Run up the steps quickly.
• B. Clear ice, wear slip-resistant footwear, use three points of contact, and step slowly with attention to footing.
• C. Jump to the cab.
• D. Ignore ice as long as the door is open.

Answer: (B)

When entering equipment on icy steps, stability comes from controlled, deliberate moves and keeping contact with the vehicle at all times. The best approach combines clearing the path, good traction footwear, maintaining three points of contact, and stepping slowly with careful footing.

Clearing ice removes the obvious hazard and gives you solid footholds and handholds. Slip-resistant footwear increases grip on icy surfaces. Maintaining three points of contact (two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand) keeps you balanced and reduces the chance of a fall. Stepping slowly with attention to footing allows you to choose secure steps and adjust your balance as you go.

Rushing up quickly can lead to a loss of balance on ice. Jumping to the cab creates a moment of instability and can result in a fall or injury. Ignoring the ice because the door is open doesn’t remove the hazard—the steps remain slick and can cause a slip before you even get inside.