Slips, Trips, and Falls

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

Slip, tripping, and falling

Slips, trips, and falls are the number one cause of injuries in the workplace. When someone gets injured on the job, not only does it hurt the employee physically and financially, but it also hurts the employers through increased insurance rates and lost productivity.

Typical locations on the body for slip, trip, and fall injuries:

• Knee, ankle and/or foot
• Wrist and/or elbow
• Back and/or shoulder
• Hip
• Head

Typical Injuries:

• Sprains and strains
• Bruises and contusions
• Fractures
• Abrasions and lacerations

Some common workplace trips:

• Uncovered hoses, cables, wires, or extension cords across aisles or walkways
• Clutter, obstacles in aisles, walkway and work areas
• Open cabinet, file or desk drawers, and doors

Human Factors:

• Carrying or moving cumbersome objects, or moving too many items at one time
• Not paying attention to surroundings or being distracted
• Taking unapproved shortcuts
• Being in a hurry and rushing
• Failing eyesight and/or visual perception
• Age
• Stress or Illness
• Medications, alcohol and drug effects

Measures to Prevent Slips, Trips, and Falls:

• Design of workplace & work processes
  • Design workplace and processes to prevent potential exposures to slip & trip hazards
• Good housekeeping
  • Maintain clear, tidy work areas free of clutter
• Safe walking practices
  • Follow safe walking practices and routes
  • Wear proper footwear with good traction