Slips, trips, and falls are the leading cause of general workplace accidents can cause pain, chaotic and embarrassment when people are watching, and can also lead to lawsuits. As a matter of fact, the most common causes of workers’ compensation claims are slips, trips, and falls in the workplace. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics there are almost 700 fatalities per year caused by slips, trips, and falls.
Fortunately, there are many ways you can proactively manage your workplace environment to decrease the risk of injury of your employee as well as your customer. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) suggests these safety precautions to avoid slips, trips, and falls.
Slips
Slips occur when you hurry or run, or don’t pay attention to where you’re walking. Slips can be caused by a variety of things such as wet surfaces, spills, or weather hazards like ice or snow, loose mats, and floor coverings, and unsuitable footwear.
- Report spills and clean up right away. Even minor spills can be extremely dangerous.
- Practice safe walking skills. Take short steps on slippery surfaces to keep your center of balance under you and point your feet slightly outward.
- Be extra cautious on smooth surfaces such as newly waxed floors. Also be careful walking on loose carpeting.
- Don’t let grease accumulate at your workplace.
- Having a non-slip mat in the cooking area.
Trips
Trips occur whenever your foot hits an object, and you are moving with enough momentum to be thrown off balance. Trips can be caused by loose flooring, obstacles, trailing cables, uneven flooring, obstruction, bad housekeeping, and bad lighting.
- Keep walking and working areas well lit, especially at night.
- Keep the workplace clean and tidy. Store materials and supplies in the appropriate storage areas.
- Make sure you can see where you are walking. Don’t carry loads that you cannot see over.
- Properly maintain walking areas, and alert appropriate authorities regarding potential maintenance related hazards. Install power outlets, internet connections and phone jacks in easily accessible locations to avoid running cables across walkways.
- Arrange furniture and office equipment so that it doesn’t interfere with walkways or pedestrian traffic in your area.
Falls
Falls occur when moving downward, typically rapidly and freely without control.
- Repair or replace stairs or handrails that are loose or broken.
- Wear shoes with appropriate non-slip soles.
- Don’t jump off landings or loading docks. Use the stairs.
- Keep passageways and aisles clear of clutter and well lit.
Keep in mind, proactive attention to hazards will help you keep your employee and customer safe and out of danger.
Call Klinger Insurance Group today at 301-428-4935 and we will help you ensure the welfare of your employees and the foundation of your business. Email us at info@klingerinsurancegroup.com and visit us at www.klinger insurance group.com.
