Guides & Toolkits

36 100-CBO-01-IGDO © 2025, Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS) 1 877 494 WSPS (9777) | 905 614 1400 | WSPS.CA WSPS.CA Salters, Sanders & De-Icers Salters and sanders are widely used in snow removal operations as the primary method for addressing slippery surfaces and areas with low traction by applying a material medium or chemical solution to the surface to melt and inhibit ice build-up. Workers handling these materials must receive proper WHMIS training and hands-on instruction before using any chemical medium. Any mounted equipment needs to be installed according to manufacturer guidelines and should have appropriate ballast and counter weights as per OEM instructions also installed. Mounting attachments on motorized equipment affects load ratings, lift capacity, and center of gravity and will affect overall equipment performance. These devices are typically mounted in various configurations, including: Over a vehicle tailgate On a 3-point equipment hitch As a boxed unit in a truck bed (V-box) As walk-behind or push units for smaller applications Materials such as salt, sand, grit, and other traction agents are commonly used for ice control. Salters operate mechanically to regulate material flow onto a large spinner plate, which rotates at high RPM (revolutions per minute) to distribute the material evenly over a wide area. It is important to ensure that the quality and consistency of the material used meets the specifications of the equipment. Contaminated or frozen material can increase the risk of flying projectiles during operation. Safe work procedures should address material flow issues and include proper lockout and tagout protocols for maintenance and clearing blockages. Spinners should never be approached while in operation, nor should they be left running when operation is complete. Work zones Special care must be taken to ensure that pedestrians and workers remain outside the danger zone of the spread pattern. Most equipment does not have visual or audible alerts when spinners engage, and any debris on the spinner can be ejected at high velocity. Keep all non-essential personnel well clear of spinner operations and adjust work zones as needed. Deicers and liquid anti-ice systems Deicers and liquid anti-ice systems use brine or chemical solutions to control ice and slippery surfaces. These are typically applied using work vehicles, walk-behind units, or backpack sprayers. A chemical solution, often a chloride solution, is applied over a controlled area with either a gravity or a pressure fed

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