Slip and fall incidents are among the most common workplace injuries during winter. Ice, slush, and freezing conditions make every step more dangerous, but what many organizations overlook is that women often face unique risks in these environments. These risks have nothing to do with skill or awareness. Instead, they come from differences in footwear fit, equipment sizing, and the way many winter traction products are designed.
Understanding these factors helps employers create safer and more inclusive winter safety programs for the entire workforce.
Most industrial footwear has historically been designed around a male foot shape. Even when offered in smaller sizes, the proportions do not always translate correctly. This can result in:
A boot that fits poorly behaves unpredictably on snow or ice. Extra space inside the boot means the foot slides before the sole even hits the ground, increasing the chance of a fall.
Many traction aids are labeled "one size fits most," but in practice, that usually means "fits most men’s boots." Women who wear smaller, slimmer, or lower profile work boots often run into issues such as:
A traction aid that shifts out of place can actually increase fall risk instead of reducing it. Women deserve traction solutions designed to match the footwear they actually wear.
Women often have different biomechanics than men, which can influence balance and movement on slippery surfaces. These differences can include:
While none of these factors inherently increase risk on their own, poorly fitting gear combined with winter surfaces can amplify imbalance or instability.
The roles many women hold in industrial or campus settings place them in movement heavy patterns, such as:
These repeated transitions between indoor and outdoor surfaces dramatically increase exposure to winter slip hazards.
Women may feel pressure not to complain about uncomfortable or poorly fitted PPE. Some are hesitant to request alternative sizing or express concerns about traction devices that feel unsafe. This can lead to silent compliance issues and preventable injuries.
Encouraging open communication about PPE fit is a critical part of any safety program.
Proactively addressing women’s winter slip risks leads to better outcomes for everyone. Employers should:
Inclusive equipment creates a safer workplace, reduces injury claims, and boosts morale.
Slip and falls are not random accidents. They are preventable events that can be reduced through proper gear, thoughtful policy, and inclusive design. Women bring essential skills to industrial and outdoor roles, and their safety deserves tailored solutions rather than one size fits all approaches.
When winter gear fits correctly and traction solutions secure properly, women can work confidently and safely in any environment.