Reminds me of the day at MAN circa 1982 when Captain was advised by agent that he would not be able to depart as pushback crew on strike.
Well, you have guessed it they backed off the stand with lookouts and permission from the Airport Authority.
When I did me B707 P2 to P1 Upgrade at Prestwick (about 1974 ish) we were taught how to move the aircraft backwards with use of reverse. Great fun! Main thing is not to touch the brakes - just cancel reverse when you want to stop and, obviously, make sure all is clear behind.
If icing conditions such as snow etc prevail then, if my memory is correct, ANY selection of reverse means back to the ramp for another deice - post the B737 accident at Washington.