Slips & Falls

There are various ways to suffer slips and falls while working. You can slip and lose your balance, you can trip over objects left improperly in your walkway or you can simply fall from an elevated position above the ground.

To avoid slips and falls, be on the lookout for foreign substances on the floor. Watch for deposits of water, food, grease, oil, sawdust, soap or debris. Even small quantities are enough to make you fall.

When entering a building from the outdoors or from debris areas clean your feet thoroughly. Snowy and rainy weather requires a door mat at each entrance to allow for complete wiping of shoes. Don’t go too fast, walk safely and avoid changing direction too sharply.

Be aware of tripping hazards. Any object left in the aisles or other areas designed for pedestrian traffic invites falls. Extension cords, tools, carts and other items should be removed or properly barricaded. If equipment or supplies are left in walkways, report it. Keep passageways clean of debris by using trash barrels.

Walk where you’re supposed to walk. Short cuts through machine areas invite accidents. Concentrate on where you are going. Horseplay and inattention leaves you vulnerable to unsafe conditions.

Hold onto hand rails when using stairs or ramps. They are there to protect you should a fall occur.