Avoiding Cold Weather Slips and Falls

When the temperatures drop, workplace injuries tend to rise. Winter slips and falls are one of the most common and costly workplace injuries. Follow these tips to help avoid slip and fall injuries.
 

• Discuss expectations with your maintenance staff or snow removal vender so they know you expect snow and ice accumulation to be removed quickly and for surface treatments to be applied to melt icy spots. 
• Perform periodic spot checks for hazards like potholes and cracks. Make sure lighting systems covering parking lots and sidewalks are checked regularly. Prevent employees from using unauthorized or un-shoveled areas and walkways as shortcuts by using hazard tape or barriers.
• Don't forget the interior walking surfaces, which can become dangerous when snow is tracked indoors. Use a floor fan to help keep walkways dry and place "wet floor" signs to warn people of potential hazards. Clean up spills or puddles immediately. Use floor mats to catch excess water. 
• Encourage employees to be aware of their surroundings and to avoid using their cellphones while walking from the parking lot or on stairs. Remind them to use authorized paths, and if it's not clear of snow, do not use it. Employees should be trained to report unsafe conditions to a supervisor or maintenance person immediately.
• You may also consider implementing a traction footwear policy that requires employees who work outside in the elements to wear traction footwear to help prevent slips and falls.

If you have additional questions about worker's comp issues, please contact Jennifer McDaniel or another member of our Worker's Compensation Group.

This publication is intended for general information purposes only and does not and is not intended to constitute legal advice. The reader should consult with legal counsel to determine how laws or decisions discussed herein apply to the reader’s specific circumstances.