Maintain Work Areas to Prevent Slips, Trips, & Falls
This is probably the most important thing you can do to prevent this type of accident. Housekeeping is the key to preventing slips, trips and falls.
- Keep walkways, aisles, and stairs free of tools, materials, and other hazards.
- Clean up any leaks or spills promptly.
- Repair or report floor problems, such as broken planks, missing tiles, etc.
- Block off and mark floor areas that are being cleaned or repaired.
- Keep cords, power cables, and air hoses out of walkways.
- Place trash promptly in proper containers.
- Keep drawers closed. Take Precautions on Stairs and Dock Edges.
- Report missing or broken stair rails and slippery or damaged treads.
- Walk, don’t run, on stairs. Hold onto stair rails while going up and down.
- Don’t jump on or off platforms and loading docks, and stay away from edges.
- Don’t carry a load you can’t see over, especially on stairs or around dock edges.
Pay Attention to Your Movements and Surroundings
- Focus on where you’re going, what you’re doing, and what lies ahead.
- Expect the unexpected.
- Take responsibility for fixing, removing, or avoiding hazards in your path.
- Wear sturdy shoes.
- Walk, don’t run.
- Wipe your feet when you come in from rain or snow.
- Report or replace any burned out lights or inadequate lighting.
- Watch out for floors that are uneven, have holes, etc.
- Keep your hands at your sides, not in your pockets, for balance.
- Walk slowly on slippery surfaces. —Slide your feet and avoid sharp turns.
- Be constantly alert for—and remove or go around—obstructions in your path.