Snow or ice-related injury claims in cold months during 2016–2021

Abstract

Introduction: Falls, a preventable worker-related injury, are major contributors to worker’s disability and death. In spite of this, there is relatively little analysis on snow or ice- related slips, trips and falls among workers in the workers’ compensation system. This analysis aimed to describe the frequency, characteristics, and occupational burden of snow or ice-related slip, trip, or fall (STF) claims in Wisconsin. Methods: This study is a descriptive analysis of working age adults’ snow or ice-related STF lost time claims during the months of October through April for the years 2016–2022. Results: A total of 7,385 claims were reported, which represented 33.1% of all STF injuries. The overall claim rate during the study period was 2.65 claims per 1,000 workers (95% CI: 2.60 – 2.71). Workers aged 45 years or more had the highest risk. Fracture of lower leg, including ankle (20.3%), intracranial injury (10.7%), and fracture of the forearm (7.3%) were the most frequent primary diagnoses among hospitalized cases or seen in the emergency room. The mean lost time was 11.8 weeks (range: 0.5 – 210.3 weeks). Transportation and Warehousing, Public Administration and Wholesale Trade industries had the highest burden. Occupations with the highest burden were Transportation and Material Moving, Building and Grounds Cleaning and Maintenance, Installation, Maintenance, and Repair. Conclusions: Snow or ice-related STFs remain a common cause of injuries in cold weather and are particularly relevant for an aging workforce. Practical Applications: This analysis informs on the occupational burden of the snow or ice-related events on workers. It is important for preparedness and prevention efforts because of the frequency of unpredictable snow or ice events particularly in regions that are not used to it.