Slips, Trips, and Falls: Reducing Incidents During Wet and Icy Weather

Slips, trips, and falls are among the most common causes of workplace injuries, especially during wet or icy weather. These incidents can result in serious injuries, lost work time, and increased costs for organizations.

Employers in industries like transportation, construction, warehousing, and utilities must take proactive steps to identify hazards, train employees, and implement preventive measures to reduce the risk of accidents during adverse weather conditions.

Understanding the Risk

Slips, trips, and falls often occur when walking or working surfaces are wet, icy, or cluttered. Even seemingly minor conditions—like a thin layer of ice, spilled liquids, or uneven flooring—can pose serious hazards.

Weather-related factors that increase risk include:

• Rain and melting snow: Creates slick surfaces and hidden hazards.

• Ice and frost: Can form quickly on outdoor surfaces and walkways.

• Poor drainage: Water accumulation leads to puddles and slippery areas.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) identifies slips, trips, and falls as a leading cause of workplace injuries, emphasizing the need for hazard recognition and preventive strategies. (osha.gov)

High-Risk Areas and Situations

Certain environments and situations present higher risks for slips, trips, and falls during wet or icy conditions:

• Outdoor walkways, stairs, and parking lots – Exposure to rain, snow, and ice.

• Loading docks and warehouse floors – Spills, condensation, and slick surfaces.

• Vehicle entry and exit points – Drivers and delivery personnel frequently exposed to wet steps and floors.

• Construction sites – Uneven surfaces, ladders, and scaffolding combined with wet weather increase hazard.

Understanding where incidents are most likely to occur allows organizations to prioritize interventions and prevent injuries before they happen.

Prevention Strategies

Preventing slips, trips, and falls requires a combination of engineering controls, administrative practices, and employee training.

Engineering Controls

• Surface treatments: Apply anti-slip coatings or mats to high-traffic areas.

• Drainage improvements: Ensure water does not accumulate on walkways or ramps.

• Handrails and guardrails: Install on stairs, ramps, and elevated walkways.

• Lighting: Adequate illumination to identify hazards during low-visibility conditions.

Administrative Practices

• Weather monitoring: Track forecasts and plan work schedules to reduce exposure during icy or wet conditions.

• Housekeeping: Promptly clean spills, snow, and ice; keep walkways clear of clutter.

• Signage: Use caution signs to alert employees and visitors to slick or wet surfaces.

• Work policies: Implement procedures for safe walking, proper footwear, and use of designated paths.

Employee Training and Awareness

• Educate employees on recognizing slip and trip hazards, especially in wet or icy conditions.

• Promote the use of appropriate footwear with good traction.

• Encourage walking at controlled speeds and using handrails when available.

• Train staff on reporting hazards and near misses to prevent future incidents.

Special Considerations for Transportation and Outdoor Work

Transportation and outdoor workers face unique challenges in wet and icy weather:

• Drivers and delivery personnel: Must be cautious when entering/exiting vehicles and walking on icy loading areas. Consider installing vehicle-mounted steps with non-slip surfaces.

• Construction crews: Require additional monitoring, use of sand or de-icing materials, and clear communication regarding hazardous areas.

• Warehouse operations: Slippery floors caused by melted snow or ice on footwear can create indoor slip hazards; establish boot-cleaning stations or mats at entrances.

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) offers guidance for drivers navigating icy and wet road conditions, which can be extended to workplace and delivery site safety practices. (nhtsa.gov/winter-driving-tips)

Building a Slips, Trips, and Falls Safety Program

1. Assess hazards: Walk through your facility and outdoor areas to identify potential slip or trip hazards.

2. Implement controls: Use engineering and administrative measures to reduce hazards before they cause accidents.

3. Train employees: Provide instruction on safe walking techniques, proper footwear, and hazard reporting.

4. Monitor conditions: Regularly inspect areas prone to wetness or ice, especially during adverse weather.

5. Document incidents: Maintain records of near misses and incidents to evaluate effectiveness and refine your program.

Fostering a Culture of Awareness

Encouraging ongoing attention to wet and icy hazards helps maintain safety across all levels of an organization. Toolbox talks, huddles, and peer-to-peer observations reinforce safe behaviors, making safety part of daily operations rather than a one-time focus.

By prioritizing slips, trips, and falls prevention, organizations can reduce injuries, maintain productivity, and support a safer workplace, even during challenging weather conditions.

Conclusion

Slips, trips, and falls during wet and icy weather are preventable with proper planning, employee training, and hazard control measures. Understanding risks, implementing preventive strategies, and fostering a culture of awareness are critical to reducing incidents across all industries.

At Sentry Road, we help organizations implement targeted safety training programs designed to prevent slips, trips, and falls, along with other workplace hazards, ensuring your team stays safe and prepared in any environment.