Preventing Slips, Trips, and Falls
Overview
Slips, trips, and falls are among the most frequent workplace injuries, occurring in virtually every type of work environment. These incidents range from minor bruises to severe injuries including broken bones, head trauma, and even fatalities, yet most are entirely preventable.
Why This Is Important
Beyond causing immediate pain and injury, slip, trip, and fall incidents result in significant lost work time, medical expenses, and reduced quality of life for injured workers. These accidents often occur during routine activities, catching workers off guard when they least expect it.
Preventing these incidents requires constant awareness and proactive housekeeping practices. Every worker has a responsibility to identify and address slip, trip, and fall hazards to protect themselves and their coworkers.
Best Practices & Safety Tips
Keep Surfaces Clean
Clean spills immediately and maintain dry, clean walking surfaces. Use absorbent materials and warning signs during cleaning.
Proper Footwear
Wear appropriate shoes with good traction, support, and slip-resistant soles for your work environment.
Adequate Lighting
Ensure all walkways and work areas have sufficient lighting to clearly see potential hazards.
Hazard Marking
Mark uneven surfaces, wet areas, and other hazards clearly with appropriate signage and barriers.
Surface Management
- Use anti-slip mats or treatments in areas prone to becoming wet or slippery
- Remove clutter, tools, and materials from walkways and work areas immediately
- Use handrails on stairs and ramps, and repair damaged walking surfaces promptly
- Install grating or other slip-resistant surfaces in areas with frequent moisture
Personal Awareness
- Report slip, trip, and fall hazards immediately when discovered
- Walk carefully and avoid running or rushing, especially in hazardous conditions
- Stay alert to your surroundings and avoid distractions while walking
- Use three points of contact on ladders and stairs whenever possible
Common Hazard Types
Common Slip Hazards
Wet floors, spilled liquids, loose rugs or mats, freshly waxed surfaces, and weather-related conditions like ice or snow.
Common Trip Hazards
Electrical cords, uneven surfaces, loose carpeting, boxes or materials in walkways, and poor lighting conditions.
Common Fall Hazards
Unguarded openings, inadequate fall protection, damaged ladders or stairs, and working at heights without proper protection.
Discussion Questions
- What slip, trip, or fall hazards have you noticed in your work area that need attention?
- How do you prevent falls when working in your specific job responsibilities?
- What type of footwear do you find most effective for preventing slips in your work environment?
- How can we improve housekeeping practices to reduce slip, trip, and fall incidents?
- What would you do if you noticed a coworker about to encounter a slip or trip hazard?
Action Items
- Conduct regular workplace inspections for slip, trip, and fall hazards
- Ensure proper housekeeping procedures are followed consistently
- Verify adequate lighting in all work and walking areas
- Review footwear requirements and ensure appropriate options are available
Related Safety Topics
- Work Area Best Practices - Comprehensive housekeeping and organization strategies
- Ladder Safety Guidelines - Preventing falls when using elevated access equipment
Prevention Focus: Preventing slips, trips, and falls requires constant attention and good housekeeping practices from everyone. Keep your work area clean and organized, stay aware of your surroundings, and address hazards immediately. Remember - a few seconds of prevention can prevent weeks of injury recovery.