Common slip trip and fall hazards safety talk

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Peligros comunes de resbalones, tropiezos y caídas Seguridad

Injuries happen from slips, trips, and falls in every industry. No work is safe from this hazard. There are many reasons workers slip, trip, and fall. We will look at some of the common areas of concern and what can be done to eliminate these common incidents from happening.

 

Circumstances that may cause slips, trips, or falls:

  • Floors that are wet or greasy
  • Newly polished or waxed flooring
  • Poor housekeeping such as cords or other materials and equipment in the walkway
  • Open drawers that can cause a trip hazard
  • Level changes that are not marked with level and color change
  • Drop-offs such as loading docks that are improperly guarded
  • Debris left lying around on the ground
  • Broken floor tiles or curled rugs or carpet
  • Having improper footwear on such as open-toed shoes
  • Missing handrails for steps and stairs
  • Ladders or steps that are damaged, wet, or greasy
  • Weather-related hazards such as rain, snow, and ice

Ways to prevent these hazards:

  • Ensure floors are swept and mopped regularly with wet floor signs placed until the area is dry. Wax and polish floors during off time, when possible, to give ample time for drying and setting as well as placing signs to let employees know. Employees are required to wear closed-toe, flat footwear with good gripping soles. Any flooring that is in poor condition should be reported and replaced immediately.
  • Have a scheduled housekeeping plan in place to keep floors and walkways tidy.
  • Keep all drawers and cabinet doors closed when not in use.
  • Mark all level changes with a bright color such as an unexpected drop in the floor or areas of curb that are used for entering the building.
  • Ensure steps, stairs, docks and other areas with a drop-off have adequate handrails or other means of fall protection in place.
  • Ladders should be clean, dry, and inspected properly before use and discarded if damaged.
  • Procedures should be in place regarding weather-related hazards such as placing ice melt, wet floor signs and extra matting at entries.

Disclaimer:

This article is provided solely as a reference tool to be used for information purposes only. The information in this article shall not be construed or interpreted as providing legal or any other advice. The information material does not amend the provisions of any insurance policy issued by CompSource Mutual. It is not a representation that coverage does or does not exist for any particular claim or loss under any such policy. Coverage depends on the facts and circumstances involved in the claim or loss, all applicable policy provisions, and any applicable law.

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