Each winter, slippery surfaces caused by snow, ice, and freezing rain create one of the most common — and costly — workplace hazards: slips, trips, and falls. To help employers combat these seasonal risks, Accident Fund Insurance Company, part of the AF Group, developed the WalkS.A.F.E. Program, a comprehensive safety campaign designed to reduce walking-surface injuries and promote awareness of everyday hazards.
WalkS.A.F.E. Stay Alert, Focused, and Educated
Slips, trips, and falls are a leading cause of workplace injuries across all industries. According to Accident Fund, more than 65% of fall-related injuries occur on same-level surfaces, and one in six lost-time injuries results from these types of accidents. During the winter months, the danger intensifies as snow and ice accumulate on parking lots, sidewalks, and entryways.
The WalkS.A.F.E. initiative addresses this risk head-on by providing employers with the tools, training materials, and best practices needed to create safer walking environments year-round.
Program Overview
WalkS.A.F.E. emphasizes proactive safety planning and employee awareness. The program offers a wide range of resources, including:
- Snow & Ice Removal Program Guide: A detailed template for developing and maintaining a written plan for snow and ice control around facilities.
- Posters and Safety Campaigns: Seasonal materials like “Walk Like a Penguin” posters that promote proper walking techniques on slippery surfaces.
- Footwear Guidelines: Recommendations for proper footwear and traction aids to reduce slips.
- Accident Investigation Forms: Tools to help employers record and analyze slip/trip/fall incidents to prevent recurrence.
- Employee Training Materials: Tip sheets and visual reminders encouraging employees to move cautiously, recognize hazards, and report unsafe conditions.
Implementing WalkS.A.F.E. at Your Small Business
Employers can easily adapt WalkS.A.F.E. resources to fit their safety programs. Key steps include:
- Establish a written snow and ice removal policy. Define responsibilities, schedules, and materials to be used.
- Inspect walking surfaces regularly. Monitor both outdoor and indoor areas where moisture or ice may create hazards.
- Provide appropriate footwear and supplies. Stock ice melt, floor mats, and caution signage during the winter season.
- Train and engage employees. Reinforce safe walking behaviors and encourage prompt reporting of problem areas.
- Analyze incidents. Use investigation forms to identify root causes and implement preventive measures.
The WalkS.A.F.E. Program is more than just a winter campaign — it’s a proactive approach to preventing injuries and fostering a culture of safety. By equipping employers and employees with the right tools, awareness, and training, Accident Fund’s initiative helps reduce injury rates, lower workers’ compensation costs, and keep everyone on their feet — safely.
Courtesy of SBAM-approved partner, Accident Fund.