Employers often assume that employees understand the basics of winter weather safety, until they witness a staff member go full "Flinstone" in the parking lot at the first sign of ice. The truth is, common sense isn’t as common as one might think, and a refresher is helpful for everyone. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that more than 20,000 cold weather-related workplace injuries occurred in 2019, which is quite a reduction from 2014’s 40,000+. Many of these injuries occur in places that should be used to operating in severe winter weather (we’re looking at you, Ohio and Michigan). The majority are sustained from “same level falls,” meaning falls on the walking surface, not involving any heights or falling through another surface. Simply put, these can be very expensive claims, due to the nature of and treatments for musculoskeletal injuries. We know the most inexpensive claim is the one that never happens - so let’s talk about how to avoid some of the dangers brought about by the season. 

1.    Clear and treat (salt) any walking surface that employees are expected or required to pass. This includes parking lots, sidewalks, ramps, stairs, etc. 

2.    Monitor indoor walking surfaces for slippery areas where snowy shoes have been, clean up slippery spots as soon as possible, and utilize appropriate signage in high traffic areas that may stay slippery. 

3.    Encourage employees to wear winter-appropriate footwear on their way into the workplace and change later (if desired). Nothing good has ever come of wearing cute shoes in an icy parking lot.

4.    Encourage the use of ice cleats. These slip on over most footwear, and have metal teeth that will dig into the ice to provide better traction. You may want to consider providing these to employees that spend a lot of time outside in inclement weather - such as property managers, maintenance and car lot techs. Keep in mind that these do NOT make anyone invulnerable to a slip & fall.

5.    Educate staff on being prepared for their work commute each day with warm, insulated socks, gloves, hats and scarves. Employees working outside regularly should dress in moisture-wicking layers.  They should also keep an emergency kit in their car with extra warm clothing, blankets, flashlights, snow/ice scrapers, snacks and bottled water. 

6.    Most importantly, teach your employees to recognize the signs of cold stress. The colder the temps and windchills, the faster frostbite and hypothermia can set in.  

7.    Since every injury can’t be engineered out, make sure your management team has a plan in place in the event of a cold-related injury occurring. Train your first responder/safety team staff accordingly and familiarize yourself with the safest route to the closest emergency room.