Copyright ©2010 Progressive Business Publications1
Preventing Slips, Trips & Falls
Copyright ©2010 Progressive Business Publications2
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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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?
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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