Created by dentists, and exclusively for members, CDSPI helps you achieve financial well-being with tailored advice, insurance, and investments. Access to CDSPI is a benefit of your membership with your provincial or territorial dental association. annual limit), helping cover legal costs and damages if a third party suffers bodily injury or property damage arising from your practice. This includes common scenarios such as slip and fall incidents involving patients or visitors. The policy also includes legal defence. The insurer will manage the claim on your behalf and cover approved legal expenses, allowing you to stay focused on running your practice. For incorporated practices, coverage can extend to both the individual dentist and the professional corporation—as long as both are named on the policy—helping safeguard personal and business assets in the event of a lawsuit. Claim Examples These examples reflect common slip and fall scenarios seen in dental practices. In each case, basic controls—such as signage, housekeeping, or equipment management—could have reduced the likelihood or severity of the incident. Example 1—Wet Floor After Cleaning A patient slipped in the reception area shortly after mopping. No caution signage was in place, and the area was not restricted. The patient sustained a wrist injury and filed a claim. Example 2—Winter Water Tracking Melting snow created a wet entryway. A delivery driver slipped while entering the practice and claimed back injuries. Example 3—Equipment in Walkway A hose from portable dental equipment was left in a hallway. A patient tripped while walking to reception and fell. What to Do After a Slip or Fall Incident If an incident does occur, how your office responds immediately can reduce injury severity, limit the claim, and demonstrate due diligence. Assist the Injured Person z Provide immediate assistance and assess the need for medical attention z Call emergency services if there is any concern about serious injury z Do not move the injured person unless necessary for safety Secure the Area z Prevent further injuries by isolating the area z Remove hazards or block access once it is safe to do so z Use warning signage if conditions remain temporarily hazardous Document the Incident z Complete an incident report as soon as possible z Record: z Date, time, and exact location z Conditions (wet floor, snow, equipment, lighting, etc.) z Names and contact information of the injured person and any witnesses z Take photographs before conditions are altered, if safe to do so Do Not Admit Fault z Be courteous and supportive, but do not speculate on cause or admit liability z Avoid statements such as “this happens all the time” Report the Incident z Notify office management immediately z Report the incident to your insurance provider according to procedures z Retain all records, photos, and witness information Follow Up and Prevent Recurrence z Review what contributed to the incident z Address any gaps in upkeep, equipment use, or procedures z Share lessons learned with staff Key Takeaway for Dental Offices Slip and fall incidents are largely preventable. Consistent upkeep, clear walkways, and regular inspections reduce risk and demonstrate due diligence if a claim arises. Proactive management of these risks is an essential part of running a safe and well-managed dental practice. Next Steps Not sure if your current coverage is sufficient? A CDSPI advisor can help assess your risks and recommend liability protection tailored to your practice. Connect with an advisor to get started. 1 Zurich Canada, CDSPI claims data, 2026 benefit year. CDSPI and Zurich Insurance Company Ltd have provided the content in this article for general information purposes only. It is not legal, medical or professional advice. Contact a professional advisor for guidance specific to your situation. 35 Issue 4 | 2026 | Supporting Your Practice
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