Winter Safety Solutions for Slippery Conditions

Slip, trip, and fall accidents are among the leading causes of NCHARRP's workplace injury especially during the winter months of December and January.

Most of these claims occur on a single level surface, indicating causes such as ice, snow, wet conditions and unclear walking paths which create hazardous environments both indoor and outdoor. Preventing these incidents requires awareness, preparation, and practical solutions. Here's a guide to simple and cost-effective strategies for reducing your risk of slips, trips, and falls during winter.

Clear Walkways Promptly and Regularly
Sweep walkways: Remove ice and snow as soon as possible, preparing with ice melt, salt or sand in advance of bad weather. Pay special attention to parking areas, stairs, sidewalks, and entryways.

Wear Appropriate Footwear
Require slip-resistant shoes and boots that have rubber soles and deep tread patterns designed for slippery conditions.

Improve Indoor Safety
Use absorbent mats: Place heavy-duty, non-slip mats at all entrances to capture snow and water from shoes.

Clean up spills immediately: Mop up melted snow and water from floors to prevent slippery surfaces.

Keep walkways clear: Remove clutter, cords, and loose rugs from hallways and high-traffic areas.

Enhance Lighting
Install adequate lighting: Ensure all entryways, stairs, and outdoor paths are well-lit to make hazards visible. Use motion-sensor lights: Automatically illuminate walkways during dark winter evenings.

Install Handrails to outdoor stairs, ramps, and steep walkways where ice may accumulate. Use guardrails to block off hazardous areas temporarily, such as icy patches awaiting treatment.

Use Anti-Slip Treatments or adhesive strips to high-risk indoor surfaces like tile, linoleum, or polished concrete. Treat outdoor surfaces with textured paint or grip-enhancing sealants to improve traction.

Practice Safe Walking Techniques
Remind staff to take short, careful steps: Walk slowly and deliberately, keeping your center of gravity over your feet. Always hold onto handrails when using stairs or ramps, especially if they may be icy. Avoid carrying heavy loads: Keep hands free to help balance and catch yourself if you slip.

Maintain Communication and Awareness
Report Hazards: Notify maintenance or property management about icy patches or unsafe conditions immediately. Warn others: Place warning signs near wet floors or icy spots.

Slip, trip and fall can result in serious musculoskeletal injuries that linger and cause pain for a long time.

Stay safe this winter by making prevention a priority at home, at work, and in your community.