Copyright ©2010 Progressive Business Publications 1 Preventing Slips, Trips & Falls.

Copyright ©2010 Progressive Business Publications1

Preventing Slips, Trips & Falls


Slips, Trips and Falls: The Facts

Slips, trips and falls aren’t anything like they are in cartoons!

15% of disabling workforce injuries are due to falls

Every year, thousands of people in the U.S. die of slip, trip and fall injuries – and hundreds of those falls happen at work


The Two Types of Falls

Same-level falls:– These falls happen on the same level you’re

walking on– Example: You slip on a wet spot and fall

Elevated falls:– These falls happen when you fall from a height– Example: You fall from a ladder, platform

or roof to another surface


Same-Level Falls

There are a few different types of same-level falls– Slip and fall: When you’re walking and lose

traction – Trip and fall: When you trip over something in

your path– Step and fall: When the ground isn’t where you

think it is


Good Housekeeping

One way to prevent slips, trips and falls? Keeping this place clean!

Remember to:– Never leave a spill– Cover cords to prevent

someone from tripping– Can the garbage– Keep an eye on mats


The Next Step: Proper Shoes

Shoes play a big part in whether you’ll fall So make sure to:

– Wear slip-resistant shoes– Make sure the soles are in good condition – less

friction means more falls– Check the bottom of your shoes for oil, grit or

debris that could make you slip– Lace and tightly tie shoes before every shift


Poor Lighting

Dimly lit areas cause falls because it’s so hard to see hazards in your way

Best bets:– Never enter a dimly lit area– Report the condition to a supervisor– If a light bulb is out, replace it or let someone in

Facilities know before you start working– If you must enter a dimly lit area, get a flashlight


Staying Safe on Slippery Floors

If you have to walk on a slippery floor:– Point feet slightly outward– Take slow, small steps– Keep your feet underneath your body to maintain

balance– Hold on to rails or stable objects as you move– If you fall, try to protect your head and neck


Remember the Four Fs

Whenever you see a slip, trip and fall hazard, remember the Four Fs:– FIX it: Fix the hazard. If you can’t– FLAG it: Block off the area

(but don’t leave it!)– FOREWARN: Let your

co-workers know– FIND: Alert a supervisor


Ways You Can Reduce Falls

Your behavior can prevent slips, trips and falls

So:– Slow down– Use handrails– Be aware of surroundings– Cut down on distractions– Carry things correctly


Falls From Elevated Levels

What are elevated falls?

– These are falls that occur from heights

– Examples: Ladders, roofs, platforms, scaffolding, etc.

What’s the most common elevated fall?

– Falls from ladders

– How can you stay safe on ladders?


Before Using A Ladder

Choose the right ladder– Heavy-duty ladders for heavy-duty jobs

Inspect the ladder

Check the side rails and rungs for grease, oil or mud

Choose the right length– Ladder should extend three feet past the top of

whatever surface you’re working on


When Using A Ladder

Use the 4:1 ratio: – For every four feet the ladder extends, it

should be one foot away from the wall Don’t reach too far while on the ladder Use both hands when climbing Grasp the side rails, not the rungs Increase stability by tying off the ladder


Safety On The Stairs

When on the stairs:

Use the handrails

Don’t carry large objects

Speak up if you findsomething wrong

Remember to try to keep yourbalance at all times


Working On Elevated Surfaces

When working more than a few feet above ground, you must use fall protection– That could include guardrails, safety nets or

personal fall-arrest equipment

You must use fall protection every time you’re working at heights

Remember: Fall protection can save your life if you take a tumble


Using Guardrails

When using guardrails, remember:

The top of the guardrail must be 42 inches above the walking/working level

The top and mid rails should be one-quarter inch thick

If you use wire rope for the top rail, it must be flagged with high visibility material every six feet so you can see it


Other Fall Protection

Safety nets:– Will be installed under walking or working

surfaces to catch you– Should be kept clear of debris

Fall-arrest equipment– Should prevent you from

free falling more than 6 ft.– Should be checked for fit before every use


Conclusion

Slips, trips and falls can be prevented

Remember to:– Keep your eyes open and speak up if you see

any slip, trip and fall hazards – remember the Four Fs!

– Be aware of your surroundings and try not to rush

– Use the right ladders and wear fall protection every time you work

Copyright ©2010 Progressive Business Publications 1 Preventing Slips, Trips & Falls.

Documents

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level falls

types of falls

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flashlight slide

work slide

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