Slips, trips and falls are among the most common causes of accidents and injury at work. Visitors may also be at risk, both inside and outside premises of your company.
Most slips and trips are caused by poor lighting, trailing cables, unsuitable floor coverings, uneven or damaged floor surfaces, contaminated floor surfaces, for example liquid or grease, ? poor housekeeping, for example tripping or falling over something left in a walk way.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, slips, trips, and falls cause 15 percent of all accidental fatalities and are a major cause of lost-time accidents. These simple tips are essential in the control or reduction to slip, trip, and fall conditions that may cause workplace injuries
- Always promptly clean up spills and place warning signs for wet or slippery walking surfaces. · Walk at speeds that the surface conditions permit.
- When possible, detour around wet or slippery walking surfaces.
- Practice good housekeeping by keeping offices, work areas, hallways, aisles, and outdoor pathways free of obstacles and clutter.
- Always close file drawers after use.
- Never stand on furniture to reach for elevated objects. Always use a ladder or step stool.
- Repair loose or damaged carpeting, floor tile, and sidewalk pavement.
- Cover extension cords when they temporarily cross walkways.
- When dismounting equipment, use manufacturer-installed handrails and ladder rungs.
- Never jump across ditches or from one level to another (i.e., from a loading dock to the ground).
- Wear appropriate slip-resistant footwear for the type of task to be performed.
- Be alert of your surrounding when climbing or descending steps or stairs. Use handrails where present.
- Always provide adequate lighting in work areas, including all walkways.
- Reduce your walking speed when turning or moving around obstacles.
It is also best to discuss issues with staff and do a risk assessment to uncover risks in your organization and lead a healthy and accident-free workplace.
http://safety.ucanr.edu/files/1457.pdf
https://www.healthyworkinglives.scot/workplace-guidance/safety/slips-trips-falls/Pages/slip-trip-fall-common-hazards.aspx
