According to the UK’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE), slips, trips, and falls remain the leading cause of workplace injuries, accounting for nearly 31% of all non-fatal incidents reported in 2023/24. Many of these incidents are exacerbated during winter when wet and icy surfaces become a significant hazard. – Stay safe, stay vigilant!
The total number of non-fatal workplace injuries has increased slightly to over 604,000 cases in the past year, reflecting the need for heightened vigilance and proactive safety measures. Additionally, the economic costs of workplace injuries and work-related ill health have risen to £21.6 billion in 2023/24, further emphasising the urgency for action.
How Employers Can Prepare:
- Prevention First: Ensure that pathways and parking areas are treated for ice and snow. Use anti-slip mats and signage to warn of wet floors.
- Training: Equip your team with the knowledge to navigate winter hazards safely. Regular safety briefings can reduce risks.
- PPE: Provide weather-appropriate footwear with strong grips to help prevent slips and falls.
- Plan Ahead: Encourage flexible schedules or remote work during extreme weather to prioritise employee safety.
Let’s use these sobering statistics to drive a culture of safety this season. Employers and employees alike must work together to ensure everyone gets home safely, regardless of the weather. 🌨️❄️
Stay safe, stay vigilant! #WinterSafety #WorkplaceSafety #HSEStatistics
