Slip , Trip & Fall
Slip , Trip & Fall
Slips, trips
and falls put
workers at risk of
sprains, strains, bruises, concussions and fractures. In severe cases
falls can lead to
permanent disability. Falls often result from slipping or tripping. While
falls are extremely common, they are one of the most preventable types of workplace
injury.
How
slips, trips & falls happen:
Slips happen where there is not enough grip or traction between the footwear and the walking surface.
This lack of traction often
results
from substances on the floor,
such as water, oil, grease and dust. These substances
may come from work
processes, spills, weather, leaks or mopping. Loose rugs or
mats, floor with varying traction
and the wrong footwear can also
cause slips.
Trips happen
when people lose their balance after their feet collide with objects.
Tripping hazards include damage or worn carpets, rugs and
mats, other uneven flooring, cluttered walkways, uncovered cables,
poor lighting and obstructed views.
Majority of falls happen on the same level resulting from slips and trips. The remaining are falls from height.
Human
Factors Increasing
Physical Risk of Slips & Trips:
·
Failing eyesight or visual
perception
·
Age
·
Physical condition & fatigue
·
Stress
or illness
·
Medications, alcohol & drug effects
Human
Factors Increasing
Behaviour Risk of Slips & Trips:
·
Carrying or moving
cumbersome objects or simply too many objects at one time
·
Not paying attention to surroundings or walking distracted
·
Taking
unapproved shortcuts
·
Being in a hurry and rushing
Risk
Control Measures:
Reduce the risk of falls through control measures such as non – slip floor products, housekeeping,
preventive measures and hazard awareness education for workers
and the supervisors.
Housekeeping:
On regular basis, need to ensure that all walking and working area are free of
slip and trip hazards. Hazards
must be addressed and eliminated immediately,
as given below
·
Remove
any clutter or obstacles as soon as they are identified in
pathways and aisles.
·
Clean
up spills and
debris promptly.
·
Make sure that all tools, equipment’s and materials are put aw
properly
and promptly. Keep tools away from walkways and
access points.
·
Run
electrical wires
and cords where they won’t create
tripping hazards.
Preventive
Measures:
Regular inspections must be carried out to control any new hazards,
as below
·
Arrange for repair of machinery or equipment that contributes to slip or trip hazards (like
equipment’s that leaks fluids).
·
Repair
damage flooring or replace it with non – slip tiling or other non – slip floor products.
·
Re-apply slip resistant waxes on floor when needed
·
Maintain ladders and work platform to ensure no parts are broken, cracked or missing.
·
Address any concerns brought up by workers, such as
problems with lighting
Encourage workers to follow these practices:
Take action on slip and trip hazards:
·
Immediately
clean up spills. Clear away any obstacles or clutter.
·
If
the hazard is much to deal with on your own, tell your site supervisor or engineer immediately.
·
Report
falls and close calls immediately.
Wear
appropriate footwear:
·
Wear well fitted & non-slippery footwear which is right for the j
·
Make sure the tread
is in good condition and the shoelaces are tied correctly
Follow
Safe Work
procedures, develop and use good
work habits:
·
Don’t carry or move more than you can safely handle.
·
Make sure you can see where you’re going when carrying large items
·
Use
carts when possible
·
Avoid
distractions such as
using cell phone while walking
·
Pay
attention to signage and watch out for hazards on walkways
·
Avoid taking shortcuts instead of using
designated pathways
·
Use
handrails on stairs, Slow
down and be cautious when walking on uneven surfaces.
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