Wet Floors, Weather Hazards, Ice and Snow
Working as a security officer means being constantly aware of risks that others may overlook. Wet floors, rain-soaked entrances, icy car parks, and snowy walkways are some of the most common hazards you’ll face on duty. While these may seem like everyday annoyances, they are a leading cause of slips, trips and falls in the workplace — and a major reason for injuries reported to the HSE each year.
Why This Matters
Slips and trips make up over one-third of all reported major workplace injuries in the UK. During winter months, accident reports linked to ice and snow increase sharply. For employers, these incidents can result in fines, civil claims, and damaged reputations. For you as a licenced officer, failure to act can affect your credibility, your employer’s compliance with BSI standards (such as BS 7499 on guarding practices), and ultimately your SIA licence if negligence is proven.
Tip: Think of every puddle, wet patch, or frosty entrance as an accident waiting to happen. Your proactive approach is what prevents it.
Common Wet Floor Hazards
Wet floors can occur in a variety of ways — from spilt drinks in shopping centres, to freshly mopped surfaces, to rainwater tracked into lobbies. These hazards are often temporary, but the injuries they cause can have long-term consequences.
Spillages in public areas – drinks, cleaning fluids, or leaks.
Rain at entrances – people bringing in water on shoes, umbrellas, or pushchairs.
Cleaning activities – mopping without proper signage or restricting access.
As an officer, you should always scan for reflective surfaces, footprints, or other signs of moisture on the floor.
Tip: When on patrol, train yourself to look slightly ahead and downwards at high-risk areas like entrances, stairwells, and toilets.
Weather Hazards – Rain, Ice and Snow
The UK weather is unpredictable, and security officers are often the first to encounter its impact. Rainwater, frost, and snow can create dangerous surfaces both indoors and outdoors.
Rain: Makes external paths slippery and increases the chance of wet floors indoors.
Ice: Common in car parks, steps, and loading bays. Hard to see in shaded areas.
Snow: Creates uneven, compacted surfaces that can become treacherous if not cleared.
Employers have a duty (under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Workplace Regulations 1992) to manage these risks by gritting, clearing snow, or installing matting. But you, as the officer on the ground, are the one who often spots the danger first.
Tip: If you see icy patches forming, don’t wait. Report it straight away so grit or salt can be applied before anyone gets hurt.
Spotting Hazards Before They Become Accidents
One of the most valuable skills a security officer can develop is the ability to notice early warning signs. Wet floors and icy conditions rarely appear “suddenly” — there are usually indicators you can pick up on during patrols.
Look for patterns: Entrances during rain, stairwells in winter, or areas near vending machines are high-risk.
Listen and observe: The sound of squeaky shoes or comments from staff may indicate a slippery surface.
Trust your instincts: If an area looks shiny, reflective, or different to usual, check it immediately.
Tip: Add hazard-spotting to your “patrol rhythm.” Don’t just check for security threats — check for safety threats simultaneously.
Real-World Example
You’re on duty at an office building in January. It’s early morning, and the car park has frozen overnight. You notice patches of black ice near the entrance steps.
Correct response: You immediately radio your supervisor, arrange for the area to be gritted, and redirect staff to a safer route until the hazard is controlled.
If ignored: A staff member slips, fractures their ankle, and the employer faces an investigation by the HSE. You may also be questioned as to why you didn’t take action when patrolling.
Result: By acting promptly, you protect employees, prevent delays, and show professionalism.
Consequence of inaction: Injury, compensation claim, and reputational damage for both employer and officer.
Tools and Techniques to Manage Wet and Icy Surfaces
Managing wet and icy conditions isn’t just about reacting quickly — it’s also about knowing what resources and systems are available. Employers should provide these, but it’s often the officer’s role to ensure they’re used effectively.
Warning signs and barriers: Use “Wet Floor” cones, ropes, or temporary barriers to stop people walking into danger.
Absorbent mats: Check that entrance mats are in place and not saturated. Replace or report them when needed.
Gritting and salt supplies: Know where these are stored and who is responsible for spreading them.
Communication systems: Report hazards immediately using radios, incident logs, or digital systems.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Non-slip footwear and gloves help you carry out tasks safely.
Tip: Familiarise yourself with the site’s specific procedures before winter arrives. Being prepared means you can respond faster when the first icy morning hits.
Consequences of Neglecting These Hazards
For Employers: Prosecution under health and safety law, large fines, insurance claims, and damaged client trust.
For Security Officers: Potential disciplinary action, loss of credibility, and in serious cases, risk to your SIA licence.
For the Public and Staff: Painful injuries, financial costs, and reduced confidence in site safety.
Key Considerations for Security Officers
Wet floors, ice and snow are not “seasonal extras” — they are predictable hazards you must be ready for all year round.
Employers provide systems like gritting schedules, warning signs, and cleaning procedures. You must use and reinforce them.
Being proactive — spotting hazards early, communicating clearly, and restricting access — demonstrates professionalism and compliance with NSI Guarding Gold standards.
Every hazard you prevent protects not just the people on site, but also your employer’s reputation and your own career.
Final Tip: Treat every wet floor or icy patch as if your own family were about to walk across it. That mindset will keep you alert, proactive, and professional.
