Caution: risk of falling: Over 21,000 people have accidents every winter
There is currently a risk of slippery ice, especially between 6 and 8 a.m. Rain, snow, and freezing wet conditions are turning sidewalks and roads into dangerous ice rinks.
Every winter, thousands of people injure themselves in outdoor leisure activities when they fall – half of them so seriously that they are unable to work for several days.
Falls in winter are no trivial matter. Between December and February, there are over 21,000 outdoor trips and falls in Switzerland, around half of which occur on snow and ice. The risk is particularly high on workdays in the early morning: people walking between 6 and 8 a.m. are most at risk of slipping on icy or snow-covered paths. Darkness, rushing, and areas that have not yet been cleared or secured further increase the risk of accidents.
Better safe than sorry
Being careful when out and about means adapting to the conditions as best you can. Not overestimating your abilities and walking more slowly than usual can prevent painful falls and weeks of downtime. In the depths of winter, accidents happen in the blink of an eye, most commonly resulting in superficial injuries or bruises, especially to the torso, back, or buttocks. In 28 percent of cases, sprains, strains, or torn tendons occur. One in five falls results in broken bones. Of the 10,750 winter falls on snow or ice mentioned above, 21 each year are so serious that a disability pension is granted.
Tips for your safety in icy conditions
Protect yourself and others by taking simple precautions when walking and in traffic. You can find the best tips for your safety in snow and ice here.
- Wear suitable footwear: Wear shoes that fit snugly and have non-slip soles. In snowy and icy conditions, we recommend wearing grippy spikes on your heels.
- Take your time: Especially in winter, allow plenty of time for your commute. Reduce your walking speed and take calm, controlled steps.
- Use the handrail on stairs: Icy and snow-covered stairs are a major accident hazard. Always hold onto the handrail when going up or down stairs.
- Take personal responsibility: spread salt or sand in front of your house or business to reduce slipperiness.
- Be careful when cycling: it is better to push your bike when it is slippery or leave it where it is.
Tips for employers
As an employer, you are obligated to ensure the safety of your employees and customers:
- Spread regularly: Regularly spread salt or sand in front of entrances, on paths around your business premises, and on your business grounds.
- Secure staircases.
- Warn your employees: Inform your employees early on about the dangers of icy conditions and appropriate safety measures.
- Offer home office options: If possible, offer your employees the option of working from home. This will protect them from slippery conditions on their way to work.
Source: Suva
