It’s that time of year again - the office Christmas party! Whilst there are plenty of embarrassing things you could end up doing on this eventful night, falling over is one which might not be your fault. Your employer is under an obligation to ensure that the workplace is safe for employees and all visitors to the premises. This includes ensuring that pathways are free from ice and snow.

ice slip

Today at Unlock the Law, we look at whether you can make a personal injury claim for a slip on ice at work. The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, and the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, give your employer a legal responsibility to make sure that access to the workplace is safe - including for any functions held after hours. This obligation extends to all floors, footpaths and roads. Employers are required to take all reasonable measures to ensure the premises is safe, this may mean gritting walkways for guests or employees and warning visitors of any potential hazards. The Code of Practice associated with the Regulations also specifically make reference to snow and ice saying:

"…arrangements should be made to minimise risks from snow and ice. This may involve gritting, snow clearing and closure of some routes.”

Your employer should make arrangements to ensure the workplace is safe - especially where a party is planned.

Your employer is therefore obligated to ensure they take action to prevent slips on snow or ice, especially is a party is planned in the workplace Where the office party is held after-hours, your employer may need to take extra precautions to minimise the risk of an accident.

If you have been injured as a result of ice or snow around your workplace, you may be able to make a compensation claim. We have created a comprehensive guide to making a personal injury claim, including for slips, trips and falls and for claims arising from adverse weather conditions. We can also recommend one of our trusted partners to help you make your personal injury claim as straightforward as possible. More Information

Read our guide to making a personal injury claim 

Read our guide to slips,trips, and falls

Read our guide to accidents in the workplace