As the temperature drops and the mornings get darker, workplaces across the UK face new safety challenges. Icy paths, wet floors, and reduced daylight can all increase the risk of slips, trips, and falls, some of the most common causes of workplace accidents.
A little preparation goes a long way in keeping your team safe through the colder months.
Here are some practical steps every employer should take this winter.
1. Plan Ahead for Icy Conditions
Don’t wait for the first frost to start thinking about grit!
- Identify key areas such as entrances, car parks, and walkways that need regular gritting.
- Assign responsibility – make sure it’s clear who checks weather forecasts and who applies grit when needed.
- Keep supplies stocked, including grit, shovels, and high-visibility signs for when surfaces are being treated.
2. Keep Floors Dry and Clean
Winter weather often means wet shoes and dripping coats, which can quickly make indoor floors slippery.
- Use absorbent mats at all entry points.
- Encourage staff to wipe footwear and hang wet clothing in designated areas – Although remember to not store damp or wet clothing on or near to heaters directly, fires could occur
- Make sure cleaning teams are aware of the increased risk and mop up spills or puddles promptly.
3. Light the Way
Reduced daylight can make hazards harder to spot.
- Check that outdoor lighting is bright enough and working properly, especially in car parks and around entrances – Think about the type of work and lighting levels needed to suitably illuminate the space
- Consider motion-sensor lights to save energy while keeping areas illuminated.
- Inside, ensure corridors and stairwells are well-lit and any broken bulbs are replaced quickly.
4. Encourage Sensible Footwear
Footwear might not seem like a safety priority, but it can make all the difference.
- Remind staff to wear non-slip, waterproof shoes or boots with good tread. Now is also a good time to check with your PPE suppliers that your standard issue items are up to scratch.
- Provide guidance or financial support where safety footwear is required.
- For office environments, consider keeping spare shoe covers or mats for visitors.
5. Review and Refresh Your Risk Assessments
Winter conditions can change your workplace risks.
- Update risk assessments to reflect the hazards and control measures required by the changing seasons.
- Conduct safety walkarounds before and after extreme weather to ensure your workplace is prepared and to identify any new hazards.
- Ensure staff are aware of reporting procedures for near misses and unsafe conditions, and remind them that they are empowered to sort a hazard when they see it if it is safe to do so and they are able.
6. Communicate Regularly
Safety awareness is highest when it’s kept front of mind.
- Share seasonal reminders via email, posters, or team briefings.
- Highlight the importance of reporting hazards early.
- Lead by example – management should model safe behaviour at all times.
By taking a proactive approach to winter safety, you can prevent accidents and keep your workplace running smoothly, whatever the weather brings.