Health and Safety

The HSE's Approved Code of Practice (ACoP) L24 for the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations explicitly refers to snowy and icy conditions, noting in paragraph 96 that dutyholders need to minimise the risks from snow and ice. This might include "gritting, snow clearing and closing off some routes, particularly outside stairs, ladders and walkways on the roof".

Data from the Hospital Episode Statistics for England and the Patient Episode Database for England show there were 4314 admissions to hospital in 2011/12 due to people falling over on snow or ice. There are no estimates as to how many of these were connected to workplaces, but the figure in itself indicates the potential consequences if businesses are poorly prepared.

You need to assess the risks posed by ice, frost and snow in the same way you would all other workplace risks, and then implement appropriate systems and controls. The unpredictability of the weather adds an element of uncertainty that makes it crucial to plan ahead and monitor any warning signs that conditions may change.