Don’t Fall This Winter!

Post by Marc Dunker, LMCIT loss control consultant

Perhaps many of you have noticed the lack of snow this winter around much of the state. I heard some people lamenting the lack of a “white Christmas,” while others were perfectly happy to consider getting out the lawnmower in December! Which group are you in?

When it comes to winter walking hazards, I think we are all the same group. No one wants to slip and fall on ice or snow — it hurts! But according to loss data accumulated by the League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust (LMCIT), nearly 800 of us did last year. LMCIT data also shows that more than $4 million was spent to settle insurance claims related to those incidents. Slip-and-fall injuries were the most-reported specific claim, and likewise the costliest type of workers compensation claim that LMCIT handled from Jan. 1, 2023, to Jan. 1, 2024.

Take steps to avoid slip-and-fall injuries

We all know the drill: Wear sensible shoes, maybe even snow boots to and from work and change into other shoes at the office; stay on the path; use handrails; pay attention and stay off your phone; avoid carrying heavy items like bags and purses; walk “like a penguin” with your toes pointed slightly inward, and so on.

So then why do we see so many slip and fall injuries? I suppose the reasons are as varied as the people who fell.

The point is most slip and fall injuries are avoidable. Follow the usual tips listed above, but also consider these extra ideas as you venture out this winter:

• Report slippery areas to maintenance, or scatter ice melter on them yourself.
• Add a traction aid to your shoes or boots. Examples of traction aides may be Winter Walking Ice Cleats, Yaktrax products, or a number of other products on the market. Before you buy the first pair you see at the store, consider the specific applications and review some of the commercial grade products that are specific for certain jobs. Not all cleats are created equal.
• Prepare to fall and choose to roll with it if it happens; protect your head if you fall backward.
• Step — don’t jump — from vehicles and equipment.
• Be mindful of slippery surfaces indoors, too, especially around entrances.

What to do if an employee falls on the job

The first thing you should do if you fall on the job is report it to your supervisor. If a First Report of Injury is in order, complete it and send it to the League. See claims reporting information.

If an employee reports a slip/fall issue, investigate the situation and take steps to prevent it from happening again. Be sure to report the hazard to maintenance staff who can remove the ice or snow.

Want more information?

For additional resources on slips and falls or any other safety-related topic, contact your LMCIT loss control consultant. You can also ask your consultant to drop off some of the new “Don’t Fall” posters (see image to the left) available from the League.

Be safe as you go about your day; so many people depend on you!