During a 360-degree ice assessment, which hazards should be identified?

• A. Only visible hazards from the immediate approach
• B. Only weather conditions
• C. Weak ice, run-off, open water, and unseen hazards
• D. Only testing the thickness at the entry point

Answer: (C)

A 360-degree ice assessment means scanning in all directions and around the entire work area to spot every hazard you might encounter, not just what’s immediately visible at the entry. This approach looks for weak ice anywhere you could step, as currents, run-off channels, and recent warmth can thin or destabilize ice far from the border you can see. It also requires recognizing open water gaps you must avoid and discovering hazards that aren’t obvious—like hidden cracks, pressure ridges, air pockets, slush, or areas where ice thickness changes quickly beneath snow cover. Weather conditions matter because they influence ice conditions, but they aren’t hazards themselves; they shape the risk you’ll identify during the assessment. So identifying weak ice, run-off, open water, and unseen hazards covers the full spectrum of dangers you must evaluate before proceeding.