Connie Christian, MBA, CPHRM
KAMMCO Facility Risk Management and Patient Safety Advisor
Winter is nearly over, but in Kansas snow and ice can still turn up unexpectedly well into spring. Inclement weather and cold temperatures may negatively impact your community or clinic by causing deterioration of sidewalks, parking lots, and curbs, which in turn may create fall hazards.
Ice melting solutions used on cement and asphalt are great for getting rid of unwanted snow and ice; they are also great at fading or removing the yellow paint used to signal a curb or incline on your sidewalks or the white paint used for pedestrian crossing lines. Similarly, the blade on the tractor used by a contract snow removal service, city public works department or even your own maintenance department is wonderful for clearing away unwanted snow from your parking lot or street. Unfortunately, this removal process is often responsible for damage to curbs and pavement, including crumbling and holes, and creates treacherous conditions where visitors or outpatients can fall. In an effort to keep floors clean and dry entry rugs, mats or carpets are initially effective, but they may soon become soaked and make for a slippery entrance once boots or shoes hit the beautifully shiny floor of your lobby.
If a fall does occur, concerned staff occasionally make statements indicating the community or clinic is at fault or that medical care for the fall victim will be covered by the community or clinic. This may or may not be possible depending on the outcome of the investigation of the fall.
Risk Management Recommendations:
- Inspect sidewalks, parking lots, curbs and entryways regularly during inclement weather. Ensure they are clear of snow, ice and excess water, and check they are free from crumbling, holes, and uneven areas. Make sure the warning paint is still visible on all pavement surfaces. If repairs are necessary, issue work orders for the repairs as soon as possible.
- If a fall occurs on your campus, investigate immediately; take pictures of the area to photo document the environment. Do not take photos of a fall victim without their written consent.
- Ensure your visitor/outpatient fall policy is up to date and all staff have been properly trained on response, reporting and documentation procedures. It is important to make sure your policy and procedures address appropriate staff statements.
- KAMMCO offers the following document to help members update or facilitate their policy: General Liability Fall Policy and Procedure Development.
If you are not a KAMMCO insured entity, contact your general liability carrier to ensure you are following their recommendations for responding, reporting and documenting visitor falls.
