The hidden costs of winter: how minor seasonal hazards can lead to major claims

A wet entrance, a poorly lit walkway or an icy car park might seem like relatively minor workplace concerns. But when conditions deteriorate, familiar hazards can quickly become sources of injury, potential liability and business disruption. 

Winter creates additional challenges for employers across almost every sector. Shorter days reduce visibility, rain and ice affect walking surfaces, and adverse weather complicates travel, deliveries and outdoor work. 

The underlying risks are not necessarily new. What changes is the level of exposure, potentially increasing the likelihood of an incident and testing the effectiveness of existing controls. 

For businesses, the consequences can extend well beyond an individual accident. Employee absence, insurance claims, investigation costs, replacement labour and interrupted operations can turn an apparently minor oversight into a significant financial and operational problem. 

Where winter exposes everyday safety weaknesses 

Slips, trips and falls 

Entrances, external steps, walkways and loading areas become particularly vulnerable to wet or icy conditions. Inadequate drainage, worn matting and inconsistent housekeeping can increase exposure. 

Employers should assess whether existing flooring, cleaning arrangements and inspection procedures remain suitable during prolonged wet weather, and establish clear responsibilities for responding to ice and snow.³ 

Reduced daylight and poor visibility 

Darker mornings and evenings can make uneven surfaces, pedestrians and moving vehicles harder to see. Lighting arrangements that appear adequate during summer may no longer provide sufficient visibility. 

Inspect external routes, car parks, yards and delivery areas after dark or during periods of reduced daylight, reflecting the conditions under which they are actually used.

Winter driving and lone working 

Poor weather can affect journey times, visibility and vehicle handling. Employees driving or working alone may also face additional difficulties if they become stranded, delayed or unable to maintain regular contact. 

Employers should review journey planning and vehicle checks for driving-related activities, alongside communication and escalation procedures for lone workers. Clear arrangements should also be in place for postponing non-essential travel or work when conditions become unsafe.⁴ 

Temporary heating and contractor activities 

The introduction of portable heaters, temporary electrical equipment and winter maintenance activities may create additional fire, electrical or operational risks if they are not appropriately selected, positioned, maintained and managed. 

Any temporary equipment or work arrangement should be assessed before use, with suitable equipment, clear operating instructions and appropriate supervision. Where contractors are involved, the respective responsibilities of the employer, contractor and person controlling the workplace should be clearly established and communicated.⁵ 

The costs that are easy to overlook 

The immediate consequences of a workplace incident are often the most visible: an injury, damaged property or an insurance notification. 

Less obvious are the secondary costs. These may include management time spent investigating the incident, disruption to scheduled work, overtime or replacement staffing, damaged equipment, and the administrative burden of handling a claim. 

The potential financial implications should not be underestimated. Research published by Ireland’s Injuries Resolution Board found that falls on the same level accounted for €88.8 million in public liability compensation awards between 2019 and 2023, representing approximately 73% of the value of awards analysed by accident cause.² 

These figures cover public liability accidents across the full five-year period and are not specific to winter or to employee workplace injury claims. They nevertheless illustrate the scale of compensation associated with common fall hazards. 

Where contractors, visitors or members of the public are involved, questions about site maintenance, responsibility and communication can further complicate matters. 

Insurance provides important financial protection, but it does not eliminate operational disruption or an employer’s responsibility to manage foreseeable risks. Whether an incident results in legal liability or a successful claim depends on the circumstances.