HPG HPG 3 - Deliver an exceptional employee experience by attracting, developing and retaining diverse talent and fostering a culture of employee safety, belonging and empowerment across the organization
Rising medical costs, particularly for advanced treatments and pharmaceuticals, are a major driver of increasing workers’ compensation claims expenses. Longer recovery times and an aging workforce contribute to prolonged disability periods, inflating wage replacement and medical benefit costs. Additionally, legal and administrative complexities often lead to higher litigation and settlement costs.
Colder temperatures can significantly increase the severity of workplace injuries, particularly during the winter months. In cold conditions, muscles and joints become less flexible, making employees more susceptible to strains, sprains, and other musculoskeletal injuries that may take longer to heal. Additionally, slips and falls on icy surfaces can result in more serious outcomes such as fractures, head injuries, or back trauma, especially when bulky winter clothing restricts movement or hinders a safe fall response. These factors contribute not only to more complex medical treatment needs but also to longer recovery times and higher workers' compensation costs.
Based on industry trends, we continue to report higher number of total recordable incidents for our organization's size. In the first quarter, the City experienced several common types of workplace injuries, primarily related to seasonal conditions. Slips, trips, and falls due to ice and snow were among the most frequent incidents, often occurring in parking lots, sidewalks, and building entrances despite regular salting and snow removal efforts. Additionally, musculoskeletal injuries increased during this period, with many employees reporting strains and sprains caused by shoveling snow, lifting heavy objects while wearing bulky clothing, or working in cold environments that can stiffen muscles and reduce flexibility. These weather-related risks highlight the need for continued emphasis on winter safety protocols, proper ergonomic practices, and employee awareness to prevent recurring injuries in future cold-weather months.