Reduce Injury During Winter Weather: Tips To Prevent Slip and Fall Injuries
It’s that time of year again – winter! The cold weather and slippery conditions can lead to serious injuries and sadly it’s more of a problem than you may think. According to the CDC, approximately one million Americans are injured each year as a result of slipping and falling on ice or snow. That’s a lot of people!
Common injuries resulting from wintery slip and falls include everything from minor bruising to breaks and fractures. More serious injuries such as spinal cord damage and traumatic brain injuries can in some cases be life-threatening. And tragically, these injuries lead to around 17,000 deaths annually.
A Costly Problem
Slip and fall injuries can also be costly in terms of both time and money. The National Safety Council reports that on average, a slip and fall injury costs about $30,000 in medical expenses and lost wages. And for businesses, slip and fall accidents can lead to expensive lawsuits, insurance claims, and increased insurance premiums. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), slips, trips, and falls account for 20 percent of all workplace injuries. A large percentage of these injuries could be prevented with some simple safety measures – especially in winter.
Tips To Reduce The Risk of Slip and Fall Injuries
So how can you reduce the risk of your staff or visitors sustaining an injury this winter and avoid the associated costs? While you can’t completely avoid the risk of slipping and falling in winter weather, there are a few things you can do to minimize the chances of an accident happening. Here are a few tips:
- Shovel snow and ice from sidewalks, pathways, and entrances as soon as possible. This is a must – make sure you keep on top of this to avoid any dangerous patches.
- Pile snow in a safe area to ensure the runoff from melting snow does not refreeze on walking surfaces.
- Clear any puddles of melted snow that form near the entrance of your business.
- Make sure walkways, stairs, and parking lots are well lit so that pedestrians can see any potential hazards.
- Apply salt or de-icing chemicals to slippery surfaces. Sand or gravel spread on walking areas will also create more traction for pedestrians.
- Prevent people from slipping on wet surfaces by using well-secured mats, runners, or rugs at entrances and exits.
- Place safety cones or signs near particularly slippery areas.
- Ensure that all employees who work outdoors are dressed appropriately for winter weather conditions, with boots that have good grip and warm clothing.
A Good Ice-Melt Solution is Essential
One of the most important things you can do to prevent slip and fall accidents in winter is to have a good ice-melt solution on hand.
Steps, walkways, and other common areas that are the responsibility of business owners and site managers require quick cleanup to help maintain a safe environment. An effective, fast-acting ice-melter naturally makes ice and snow removal easier which, in turn, saves time and reduces maintenance.
Arctic Blue Snow and Ice Melt is a highly effective and economical ice-melter that is safe to use on all surfaces. It’s also easy to use and requires no special handling.
Arctic Blue provides instant traction due to its granular format with sharp edges. It works to prevent slips and falls immediately upon spreading. Another great feature – unlike many other ice-melters it does not contain calcium chloride, so there’s no oily residue left behind to track into buildings.
This cost-efficient solution to your slip and fall prevention needs is now available at Weiss Bros in convenient, easy-to-use bags that make it a breeze to keep your property safe all winter long.
