Accidents that involve employees slipping on ice make up over 30 percent of slip work-injury claims each year. Both workers and employers in Georgia may benefit from learning about tips on how employers can ensure workplace safety and reduce liability during the winter months.
An employer should be aware of the state and federal regulations regarding maintaining a safe workplace environment. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has a substantial number of regulations to which employers must adhere. Employers must also follow the policies of each state in which it has facilities. Checking the workplace for leaks should also be a priority. Any leaks that are discovered should be repaired as soon as possible. If a leak cannot be fixed immediately, the surrounding area should be sectioned off.
Employers should make a practice of having the appropriate caution signs available to denote areas that may present a slipping danger. These signs can be posted on walkways that are used for entering and exiting a facility. They should be large, clearly visible with bright colors and positioned away from areas where they can be concealed by snow. Provisions should also be made to keep the workplace safe for when snow and ice melts. This means using rugs at entrances so that employees are able to clean their shoes. Another tip for workplace safety during the winter is to educate employees about winter safety. Employees should be encouraged to report areas that present slipping dangers. They could be held financially responsible for a customer’s injury that was caused by
In addition to protecting their employees, business owners also owe a duty of care to their customers as well. They could be held financially responsible if a customer is injured due to negligent maintenance or a hazardous condition. Such an injured victim might want to have legal assistance in seeking compensation for the losses that have been incurred.