Avoid slips, trips & falls

Slips, trips and falls are among the most common workplace accidents. Falls can cause serious injuries, even death. Most slip, trip, and fall incidents are preventable with general precautions and safety measures.

Slip – A slip occurs when there is too little traction or friction between the shoe and the walking surface and can cause someone to lose their balance.

Trip – A trip occurs when a person contacts an object in their way or drops to a lower level unexpectedly, which can cause them to be thrown off-balance.

Fall – A fall occurs when you are too far off balance. There are two types of falls:

• Same level – Fall to the surface on which you’re walking. Same-level falls are more common and are usually caused by slips and trips.
• From elevation – Falls from elevation are more severe and usually caused by ladders, stairs, platforms, and loading docks.

Housekeeping is the first and most fundamental level of preventing falls due to slips and trips. Without good housekeeping practices, any other preventive measures such as installation of sophisticated flooring, specialty footwear or training on techniques of walking will never be fully effective. Other items that will help in preventing slips, trips and falls:

• Slow down. Avoid being in a hurry.
• Avoid distractions. Keep focus on the task until completion.
• Wear appropriate shoes for the conditions.
• Improve lighting where needed.
• Balance the load you’re carrying.

RS SafetyTV has videos on this topic to use in safety meetings.

WR employs Rick Means as Director of Safety and Education, who is available to help members draw up safety plans and suggest topics for safety meetings. Contact him at 360.943.9198 x118, or [email protected]