Slips, trips, and falls are a common cause of workplace injuries, but they can be prevented. In this post, we will discuss some steps that employers and employees can take to prevent slips, trips, and falls in the workplace.
Identify and remove hazards
The first step in preventing slips, trips, and falls is to identify and remove hazards. This can be done by conducting regular inspections of the workplace and looking for potential hazards such as cluttered walkways, wet or slippery floors, uneven surfaces, and obstructed views. Once hazards are identified, they should be removed or properly marked to alert employees of the potential danger.
Provide proper footwear
Another important step in preventing slips, trips, and falls is to provide employees with proper footwear. Shoes with non-slip soles and good support are essential for reducing the risk of slips, trips, and falls. Employers should also ensure that employees are wearing their footwear properly and that it is in good condition.
Implement safe work practices
Safe work practices are also crucial for preventing slips, trips, and falls. Employees should be trained on proper lifting techniques and the use of safety equipment such as ladders and scaffolding. They should also be encouraged to take regular breaks to rest and avoid fatigue, which can increase the risk of falls.
Address spills immediately
Spills are a common cause of slips, trips, and falls, so it is important to address them immediately. Employees should be trained on how to clean up spills safely and should be provided with the necessary equipment such as absorbent materials and warning signs.
Maintain lighting levels
Proper lighting is essential for preventing slips, trips, and falls. Poor lighting can make it difficult for employees to see potential hazards and can also cause fatigue and reduced visibility. Employers should ensure that lighting levels are sufficient and that they are regularly maintained.
Keep walkways clear
Clutter and obstructions in walkways are a major cause of slips, trips, and falls. Employers should ensure that all walkways are kept clear and that employees have plenty of room to move around safely. This includes keeping floors free of debris and making sure that equipment and materials are stored in a manner that does not obstruct the walkway.
Properly train employees
Proper training is essential for preventing slips, trips, and falls. Employers should provide employees with training on safe work practices, hazard identification, and the use of safety equipment. They should also regularly review and update this training to ensure that employees are aware of the latest safety measures and procedures.
Follow the OHSA
The Ontario Health and Safety Act (OHSA) sets out specific requirements for preventing slips, trips, and falls in the workplace. Employers are required to take all reasonable precautions to protect their employees from injury, and this includes preventing slips, trips, and falls. Employers should familiarize themselves with the OHSA and ensure that they are in compliance with its provisions.
By identifying and removing hazards, providing proper footwear, implementing safe work practices, addressing spills immediately, maintaining lighting levels, keeping walkways clear, properly training employees, and following the OHSA, employers and employees can work together to prevent these types of accidents and keep their workplace safe.
OSG Can Help
We offers a variety of consulting and course customization services. Contact us to learn more!