Get to grips with gritting

Figures from the Hospital Episode Statistics for England show that there were 7,031 admissions to hospital in 2012/13 as a result of people falling over on snow or ice. This figure does not take into account the slips and falls that did not result in a hospital admission.

Gritting is the most common method of de-icing due to the fact that it is cost-effective and easy to apply, with rock salt being the most commonly used ‘grit’. Worryingly, many businesses are not aware that gritting needs to be carried out before frost, ice and snow settles and when the temperature drops, or is expected to drop, below freezing point.

Organisations are advised to pre-empt bad weather and ensure sufficient stock of de-icing salt is available to ensure workplaces are fully prepared for winter months. This is not only important to prevent slips and falls, but so that organisations are able to defend any claims that may arise from them.

Seton provides a large range of safety products that can be used and installed around the workplace. Grit and grit spreaders reduce the risk of slipping outside, while safety signs alert individuals to the high hazard areas that may be particularly prone to becoming slippery.