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October 2011
Winter can bring hazards to floors
By Aaron Parker
An article in the April 2011 issue of Risk-Tex points out that slips, trips, and falls are common in the workplace. The article highlights that claims occurring on ice and/or snow represent approximately 2 percent of all slip, trip, and fall claims submitted and 2 percent of the total cost of all slip, trip, and fall claims. This lower frequency and severity of slip, trip, and fall claims may lead employers and employees to a conclusion that employee injuries resulting from icy or snowy conditions require less concern or attention. This is not the case. Snow and ice conditions arise in a majority of Texas areas, and winter storms often catch Texans unprepared.
Unlike those who live in Minnesota and New York, residents of Texas are not assured of snowfall each December and January. Data suggests, however, that from Amarillo to San Antonio, it is a real possibility each winter. That same data suggests that on nearly 20 days of the year one might expect the temperatures as far south as Houston to dip below freezing level. The threat of snow and ice is just one concern. Attention must also be paid to the potential magnitude of snow and ice storms.
A winter weather event can have great impact. Over the four day period of Feb. 1-4 earlier this year, 97 workers’ compensation claims were reported to SORM as a result of slips, trips, and falls on ice and snow. Those claims represent 27 percent of all “on ice/snow” claims for the seven-year period between FY ‘05 and FY ‘11.
It is essential for employers and employees to be prepared for icy and snowy conditions and to address the harmful impacts of winter-weather events. By understanding where ice and snow collect and enacting best practices, employers and employees have the opportunity to reduce injuries and their impact on agency operations.
Loss Prevention Stategies
Strategies for the Employer
- Have a program in place to remove snow and ice from parking lots, garages, and sidewalks.
- Warn employees of weather conditions through e-mail, signage, or phone media.
- Place snow- and ice-melting chemicals at entry and exit ways.
- Provide additional floor mats at entrances and mop water that accumulates from melted snow.
- Don’t wait until winter weather conditions arise to respond.
- Proactively watch weather reports to put risk control measures in place prior to the event.
- Alert employees of expected weather conditions.
- Enact previously determined program for winter weather conditions.
- Salt or sand high traffic areas ahead of precipitation to prevent formation of ice.
Strategies for the Employee
- Be aware of your surroundings:
- Take note of slick floors from melting snow and ice.
- Look for black ice on sidewalks and parking lots. Black ice will appear clear and is difficult to see.
- Adhere to signs and notices distributed by your employer (i.e. “wet floor,” “no parking,” or “use this entrance and exit”).
- Clothing and footwear:
- Dress warmly and wear boots with non-skid soles; avoid plastic and leather soles.
- Remove as much snow and water from boots as possible when entering a building.
- Wear a bright or reflective scarf or hat so drivers can see you.
- Make sure clothing doesn’t block your vision or reduce the ability to hear.
- Don’t carry too much – free hands and arms provide better balance.
- When walking on an icy or snow-covered surface:
- Take slow, small steps;
- Keep your feet underneath your body to maintain balance; and
- Rely on rails and other stable objects for balance
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Aaron Parker is a risk management specialist in the Risk Assessment and Loss Prevention division. |
