Become an Archco Employee
Fall-Proof Tips
How to prevent slip and trip injuries
Slips, trips, and falls are among the most common hazards in most workplaces. Any number of injuries can occur as a result. For example, you could get a strain or sprain from a simple slip even if you don't actually fall. The jerking motion when your feet slip and your body reacts to regain balance can cause a muscle strain or a sprain like a twisted ankle. Worse, a fall could tear a ligament or break a bone. Slips, trips, and falls can also result in damage to the back or spine.
Even though it might not be your job, take the time to remove slip hazards to prevent accidents. For instance:
- Clean up spills of water, oil, or other liquids. Paper towels can be used for water. Oil and other chemicals may require special absorbent wipes.
- Repair or report liquid leaks right away. If you can't do the job safely, report the problem and place a barrier around the area to prevent slips.
- Pick up objects off the floor. even a small object like a piece of plastic on a concrete floor could cause a slip.
- Sweep up debris and waste materials. Some granular particles can act just like liquid spills on the floor and cause a slip and fall.
- Wear slip-resistant shoes.
Also take responsibility for trip hazards by following these precautions:
- Clean up debris such as straps and bands from boxes that can become entangled in a person's legs.
- Put away electrical cords and air hoses when not in use. And even when using them, be careful where you place them; make sure they're not located in places where somebody could trip over them.
- Don't stack boxes or other items in walkways.
- Keep drawers closed so that someone doesn't come by and tumble over an open drawer.
- Carry objects carefully. Make sure that you can see where you're going, and watch out for obstacles that could cause a trip.
- Put away tools and other equipment after use. Someone could trip and fall over something you left lying around - perhaps even you!
