Slips, Trips, and Falls – Safer Working Environment

Slips, Trips, and Falls (STF) often occur due to a loss of traction between the foot / shoe and the walking surface. Common locations of risk are doorways, ramps, hallways with different floor surfaces, stairs, and when obstacles like rugs or cords are present.

1. Create good housekeeping. Safety and housekeeping go hand in hand. A clean workplace is a safe workplace. Proper housekeeping should be a routine behavior and a daily activity.
2. Reduce wet or slippery surfaces. The most frequently reported types of walking surfaces causing the most injuries are parking lots, sidewalks, bathrooms, and food preparation areas.
3. Avoid creating obstacles in walkways. Injuries can result from trips caused by obstacles, clutter, or equipment blocking walk paths.
4. Create and maintain proper lighting. Ensure lighting is adequate in all work areas like walkways, stairways, ramps, hallways, and basements.
5. Wear proper shoes. The shoes you wear can play a big part in preventing STF. Footwear should be slip-resistant and not create a trip hazard. High heels may look nice, but they can create real slip and trip hazards.
6. Control individual behavior. If you are in a hurry, you are likely to be walking fast or even running, which increases your risk of a STF. Taking shortcuts, carrying objects that block vision, wearing dark glasses, or using a cell phone could all be factored in accidents.

Results of STF to the Employer:
– Loss of productivity and business.
– Increased insurance costs.
– Delays in work.
– Increased labor for replacement workers.

Results of STF to the Employee:
– Lost wages.
– Out-of-pocket expenses and care.
– Pain and suffering.
– Temporary / permanent disability, altered quality of life.

Common injuries from STF:
– Sprains and strains.
– Bruises.
– Abrasions and lacerations.
– Fractures.

Common body parts injured from STF:
– Knee.
– Ankle.
– Wrist.
– Elbow.
– Shoulder.
– Back.
– Head.

Together, we all must look out for ourselves and others to ensure we are safe at work.

Be a safety champion and remember, “Safety always is ALWAYS!”