Preventing Slips, Trips and Falls

Logistics Bathrooms are located… In the event of an emergency…

Welcome and Objectives Welcome to this training on preventing slips, trips and falls. This course will: –Explain the frequency and costs of slip, trip and fall injuries –Explain common causes of slips, trips and falls –Explain how to prevent slips, trips and falls

Background Information

Frequency and Cost Injury Average Number of Injuries Per Year Average Total Cost of Injuries Per Year Slip, trip, fall on same level860$5,280,400

Definitions Slips – Too little friction or traction between footwear and walking/working surface Trips – Loss of balance caused by an obstacle Falls – Body is too far off center of balance  On the same level – Fall to same walking or working surface

Injuries Happen Fast

Location of Injuries Slips, trips and falls occur:  In the workplace  At home

To Sum it Up: Many employees are injured by a slip, trip or fall A lot of money is spent on slip, trip and fall injuries These injuries happen fast and anywhere

Common Causes of Slip, Trip and Fall Injuries

Common Causes Poor housekeeping Poor walking/working surfaces Human errors

Poor Housekeeping Clutter Cords across walkways Spills Open drawers Loose or unanchored rugs or mats

Poor Housekeeping (continued) Debris in work area Unmarked material Poor placement of tools and materials in vehicles/equipment Spills

Poor Walking/Working Surface Snow/ice Mud Grease Oil Water Damaged carpet Holes Uneven Surfaces

Poor Walking/Working Surface (continued) Damaged stairs  Not holding handrails Poor lighting

Human Errors Carrying or moving cumbersome objects preventing clear sight of walking/working surface Not paying attention to surroundings Taking shortcuts Being in a hurry and rushing

To Sum it Up: Slip, trip and fall injuries can occur due to:  Poor housekeeping  Poor walking/working surfaces  Human errors

Prevention Methods

Keys to Preventing Injuries Being aware of what surrounds you and others Maintaining good housekeeping Implementing safe practices Wearing proper footwear Protecting yourself if you do fall

Be Aware of What Surrounds You and Others Be alert of elevation changes

Be Aware of What Surrounds You and Others (continued) Keep eyes on path and mind on task

Be Aware of What Surrounds You and Others (continued) Doesn’t look badDidn’t think it was deep Branches under leaves Gravel and rocks under leaves

Good Housekeeping Store work materials correctly Keep cords off floors

Good Housekeeping (continued) Remove trash in a timely manner Clean work area as you go

Safe Practices Normal stride When slip hazards are present When walking on slippery surfaces

Safe Practices (continued) When walking up steep hills:  Turn sideways and take short steps  Ask for help if you need to carry tools or materials  Walk slowly

Safe Practices (continued) Highlight permanent elevation changes Place mats in high traffic areas Place warning barriers on elevation changes

Safe Practices (continued) Store items on racks or shelves, not the floor Highlight common aisle ways Use drip trays for leaks Immediately post signage when appropriate

Safe Practices (continued) Shovel common walkways and place salt/calcium to melt ice

Footwear Wear appropriate footwear for the task at hand

Shoe Condition Almost new shoes - No sign of wear on the tread Old shoes – Replace this shoe since smooth tread on an area larger than two pennies

If You Fall Roll with the fall  Don’t reach out  Let your body crumple and roll Bend your elbows and knees  Use your legs and arms to absorb the fall

To Sum it Up: Be aware of what surrounds you and others Keep your work area organized Implement practices which address slip, trip and fall hazards, or notify someone who can Wear proper footwear If you do fall, roll with the fall

Commitment

Questions

Knowledge Check

All of the following can contribute to slip, trip and fall injuries, except: a. Organized and well-kept work areas b. Clutter c. Snow/ice d. Cords across walkways

Safe practices include all of the following, except: a. Using drip trays to contain leaks b. Posting signage when appropriate to warn of a hazard c. Adjusting your step when hazards are present d. Walking without keeping your eyes on the path

Wearing appropriate footwear for the task at hand is important in preventing slip, trip and fall injuries.  True  False