Ways to Prevent Slips, Trips and Falls
Slip and fall accidents can easily be corrected by following simple prevention methods and tips
25,000 slip and fall accidents happen every day in the workplace. This can easily be corrected by following simple prevention methods and tips. When employees can operate in safe working environments, everyone benefits.
Risk Factors for Slips & Falls
Each year, slips, trips and falls account for over 8 million emergency room visits. 4 percent of falls result in fractured bones. Falls are also the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries. What causes these incidents? Some risk factors for slips and falls are wet surfaces caused by spills or weather, loose mats and rugs, boxes and containers or poor lighting and visibility.
Tips to Prevent Falls
Follow a frequent mopping schedule to remove moisture from floors. In areas where moisture collects use moveable signs and cones to highlight danger. Permanent signs should be used in regularly hazardous areas like pool decks, locker rooms and areas with differences in elevation. Staff members who work on or near wet surfaces should wear slip-resistant shoes.
Keep steps and walkways clean and clear. This includes maintaining surfaces by fixing cracks and replacing any torn carpet. Perform routine cleaning and make sure to remove any trash or clutter from walking areas.
Tips to Prevent Errors
Reduce human error by keeping your employees happy and alert. Make sure workers take frequent breaks and encourage them to stretch so that they don’t injure themselves. Anti-fatigue mats also improve safety and morale by giving employees the support they need to put effort into every task they perform. However, beware thin low-quality mats that may develop warped, cracked or curling edges as these will become a tripping hazard.
Check out this infographic from
Ultimate Mats for more tips on how to keep your workers on their feet.