I work in the office, so I don’t spend a lot of time working outdoors. But the other day I had to deliver something to a supervisor and slipped on the ice in the parking lot when I was walking to my car. Because of the way I landed, the fall broke my arm. The company’s doing a better job of maintaining the parking lot now, but I wish they didn’t wait until someone got hurt before they did something about it.

Let It Snow

Snow and ice aren’t a big deal when you get to stay warm under the blankets or by the fire, but what about when you have to go to work?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, slips, trips, and falls were responsible for more than 800 workplace deaths in 2015 alone. While they can happen at any time of year, the ice and snow that come with winter create more obstacles and hazards on the worksite. With snow-covered ice, black ice, and everything in between, workers need to be extra cautious when moving around the jobsite during the colder months. And it’s not just workers who need to be mindful of the weather – employers should address winter weather safety in a way that considers all of their staff, whether they’re hard at work outdoors or inside the office.

Where’s the Rulebook?

OSHA doesn’t have specific regulations for working in the cold weather. Unfortunately, that leaves the responsibility of identifying and implementing an adequate control strategy squarely on the employer’s shoulders.

While most employers already provide additional gear as needed, it’s easy to overlook some of the simple things that can go a long way to keeping the worksite slip and fall free during the winter.

Slip Prevention Tips

Seasonal Footwear

Choosing proper winter footwear is an important step. The best options are insulated and water-resistant boots with good rubber treads. If boots aren’t an option for your team, consider a pair of rubber overshoes to pull over street shoes when walking through icy worksites – but make sure they have good treads.

Clear Paths

Clear walkways to prevent ice build-up. Don’t forget to pay attention to the parking and break areas, too. If there is some area where the ice is too thick and hard for you to break down to a safe level, mark it off with temporary signs or cones so people don’t wander into them.

A Thaw Isn’t Always Your Friend

You might put your guard down when you see the snow and ice melting away. But remember that it could re-freeze overnight and create a worse slip hazard for workers returning in the morning.

Take It Slow

Slow and steady wins the race – or in the case of winter, stays upright. Taking slow, deliberate steps over a slippery surface might take a few extra minutes but it could be the difference between getting safely across and wiping out.

Don’t Slip Up

There’s no way to prevent every slip and fall, especially when snow and ice come into play. But taking a few simple precautions can go a long way to limiting the dangers.

Remember to take your time, wear proper footwear, and clear the ground of as much ice and snow as you can.