Winterize Against Workers’ Compensation Claims

In many parts of the United States, the onset of winter weather means an increase in workers’ compensation claims. Blizzards, winter storms, snow, sleet, ice and freezing temperatures can lead to various occupational and workplace injuries and illnesses. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 20,460 occupational injuries related to snow, ice, sleet and snow in 2017, the most recent year for which statistics are available.

While any worker can be affected by winter weather risks and hazards, employees who work outdoors, such as construction workers, first responders, recreation workers and utility workers, are generally more at risk from winter weather hazards, risks and environmental conditions due to the nature of their work.

Most common winter workers’ compensation claims

Many of the common winter workers’ comp claims fall into one of these categories:

Slips, trips, and falls: These incidents account for about 25% of total workplace injuries, according to the National Safety Council. The likelihood of these injuries increases when there is ice or snow on the ground. Some common hazards associated with workplace slips and falls include snow and ice on parking lots, stairs, walkways, floors, roadways and sidewalks.
Cold-stress injuries: According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), cold stress occurs when skin temperature is driven down and eventually the internal body temperature drops too low. Serious cold-related illnesses and injuries may occur when the body is unable to warm itself, and some can even be permanent or fatal. Cold temperatures, high winds, dampness and cold water all contribute to cold stress. Common cold-stress illnesses and injuries include trench foot, frostbite and hypothermia.
Winter driving hazards: Winter weather can cause hazardous driving conditions, resulting in an increase in workers’ comp claims related to auto and vehicle accidents.
Snow shoveling and snow removal hazards: Injuries and illnesses can include strains and sprains, harm from using equipment, dehydration and even heart attacks, according to OSHA.

Winter workplace injuries don’t just have detrimental effects on the health and safety of employees. They also can result in higher general liability insurance costs, employee absences due to work injuries and lost productivity.

Prevention strategies are key

Fortunately, employers can implement a number of wide-ranging risk management and safety strategies to minimize risk and prevent injuries from snow, ice, storms and other winter weather hazards. These solutions and prevention tools include employee communication and education, safety campaigns and plans and procedures to be followed during cold weather, snows and storms.

Here are some tips to develop a complete winter workplace safety strategy:

Communication and education

Implement a winter weather communications strategy to advise employees of potentially hazardous weather events.
Create a winter weather safety manual and distribute it to all workers.
Educate employees on the risks of slips and falls during winter.
Consider creating winter storm contingency plans, such as remote working, to minimize travel in hazardous conditions.
Make sure outdoor workers know how to recognize the signs of cold stress.

Safe snow and ice removal

Hire a snow removal company to clear parking lots, sidewalks, stairs and walkways.
Use safe ice and snow melting techniques.
Be aware of the hazards of shoveling snow.

Safety campaigns

Develop a winter safety awareness campaign to communicate procedures and plans.
Use highly visible signage such as caution and warning signs in hazardous areas, both indoors and outdoors.
Promote safe operations of all winter equipment, including plows and snowblowers.

Winter weather safety gear and clothing

Make sure outdoor employees wear appropriate clothing and other protective equipment during cold weather.
Be aware of OSHA requirements for providing personal protective equipment for workers; protective winter gear may fall into this category.

Equipment and vehicles

Ensure that workplace vehicles and heavy equipment are inspected and properly working for winter weather conditions.
Equip vehicles with emergency safety and weather kits.
Make sure drivers are properly trained to operate vehicles in winter weather conditions.

Remember that communicable illnesses associated with the winter season, such as the flu and colds, are not covered under workers’ comp. It behooves your company and your employees to practice excellent hygiene during winter months to avoid lost work time due to preventable communicable disease. Vaccinations are also important. You may wish to provide flu shots on site.

Your human resources department or safety manager can consult with a variety of resources to create and implement winter safety plans and programs. These may include the National Safety Council, OSHA or your insurance provider. By taking a proactive approach to winter safety and risk management, you can protect your workers and create a safe work environment regardless of the weather.

This content is for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing professional, financial, medical or legal advice. You should contact your licensed professional to obtain advice with respect to any particular issue or problem.

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