Slip, Trip, and Fall Prevention: Winter Safety Tips

Slips, trips, and falls are one of the most persistent — and preventable — hazards in the workplace. Winter conditions like snow and ice make them even more likely, putting employees, customers, and businesses at risk. For small businesses, these incidents can lead to costly claims, lost productivity, and legal liability.

While workers’ compensation and general liability insurance can help cover expenses after an accident, proactive measures are the best protection. By implementing proven prevention strategies, you can help keep your workplace safe and lower the risk of winter slips, trips, and falls.

In this article, we’ll cover the impact slips at work can have on your business, practical safety tips to avoid slips, trips, and falls, and what to do if someone falls in the workplace.

Understanding the Risks of Winter Slips, Trips, and Falls

Winter brings unique challenges for workplace safety. Heavy snow and ice can accumulate on walkways and parking lots, creating slick surfaces. Inside, melted snow and inadequate mats often lead to wet floors, while shorter daylight hours contribute to poor visibility. These conditions can all increase the likelihood of a slip at work.

The consequences can be serious. Injuries from slip and fall accidents range from sprains and strains to broken bones and concussions. Beyond physical harm, these incidents can result in lost wages, potential lawsuits from employees or customers, and even OSHA compliance concerns. For small businesses, the financial and reputational impact of falls in the workplace can be significant.

How To Prevent Slips, Trips, and Falls in the Workplace

Preventing slips, trips, and falls starts with addressing the hazards that winter weather creates. Snow, ice, and poor visibility can turn everyday areas into dangerous spots for employees and customers. Taking proactive steps now can help reduce risks and keep your business safe.

Here are safety tips to avoid slips, trips, and falls at your small business:

Outdoor Safety

• Clear snow and ice promptly from all entrances, walkways, and parking lots, ideally within one hour of accumulation.
• Use salt, sand, or ice melt to improve traction and prevent refreezing; monitor the temperatures and reapply as needed.
• Mark hazardous areas, such as sloped walkways or uneven surfaces, with cones or signage.
• Improve outdoor lighting near entrances and parking lots during early morning and evening hours.
• Inspect walking surfaces for cracks or potholes that can collect ice or cause trips.
• Make sure curbs are clearly marked with high-contrast paint.

Indoor Safety

• Place heavy-duty absorbent mats at entrances to absorb moisture; ensure they extend at least 6 feet indoors.
• Replace saturated mats and ensure they have anti-slip backing to help keep them secure.
• Mop and dry floors frequently, especially near doorways and high traffic areas, to prevent slick surfaces.
• Place wet floor signs as soon as cleaning begins, and remove them promptly once the area is dry to prevent sign complacency.
• Keep indoor areas free of obstructions like tools, cords, and other clutter.
• Ensure all spaces are well-lit to reduce visibility issues.

Creating a Winter Safety Plan for Slip and Fall Safety

A well-documented winter safety plan is essential for reducing hazards and protecting your business. It should outline clear procedures to maintain compliance and limit liability. To keep employees and customers safe, take these steps:

• Document Procedures: Outline steps for snow removal, floor maintenance, and hazard reporting.
• Educate and Train Staff: Provide training on recognizing hazards, safe walking practices, proper winter footwear, and emergency procedures.
• Assign Responsibilities: Designate team members for snow and ice removal, floor inspections, and maintenance tasks.
• Schedule Regular Inspections: Check outdoor walkways, parking lots, and indoor areas frequently during winter months.
• Provide Salt/Sand Stations: Keep salt or sand at entrances so employees can treat icy spots immediately and reapply as needed.
• Employ Risk Control Services: Work with your insurance provider’s risk control team for expert guidance and resources.
• Promote Hazard Reporting: Encourage employees to report slippery surfaces or other risks immediately.

What to Do If Someone Slips, Trips, or Falls

A key component of slip and fall safety is knowing how to respond when an accident happens. Acting quickly and following proper procedures can help protect the injured person and your business.

• Ensure Immediate Medical Treatment: Make sure the injured person receives prompt care. Call emergency services if necessary and offer first aid when appropriate.
• Report and Document the Incident: Complete an incident report detailing what happened, where it occurred, and any contributing factors. Take photos of the area if possible.
• Notify Your Insurance Provider: Review your insurance coverage and begin the claims process. Workers’ compensation can help cover medical costs and lost wages for employees, while general liability insurance may apply if a customer is injured.
• Review and Correct the Hazard: Conduct a root cause analysis to identify what caused the fall and implement corrective actions immediately.

Strengthen Your Slip, Trip and Fall Prevention Strategy

Proactive measures are the best way to help protect your employees, customers, and business from winter slips, trips, and falls. Review your safety protocols now to address snow hazards and other risks that can lead to accidents.

Also take time to check your commercial insurance policy and confirm you have adequate coverage, including workers’ compensation and general liability. These protections can help if an incident occurs.

Need help reviewing your coverage or accessing risk control resources? Contact an agent today.