slips and trips policy

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Sample slip, trip and fall prevention program

This sample program is intended to provide general information to consider in developing a slip, trip and fall prevention program. This sample program may or may not represent all components of a slip, trip and fall safety program needed by your unique operations or comply with all legal requirements and/or standards. You are responsible for tailoring the program to address the specific needs of your organization.

Table of Contents

• Introduction 
• Sample policy statement
• Housekeeping standards 
• Seasonal issues 
• Corrective maintenance procedure 
• Workplace inspection policy and procedure 
• Responsibilities 
• Safety rules 
• Accident investigation procedure 
• Additional tools and resources 
• Appendix A periodic inspection report Appendix B sweeping log
• Appendix C walking and working surfaces — self inspection checklist Appendix D accident investigation report
• Appendix E snow and ice control record

1. Introduction

Nationally, falls are the second leading cause of accidental death and a major cause of debilitating injuries. This program is designed to reduce exposure to both visitor and employee slip, trip and fall accidents.

2. Sample policy statement

The most effective safety program policy statements reflect your unique operations and environment. Here is a sample:

“It is the policy of ABC, Inc. to provide our employees and customers safe and healthful conditions in which they can conduct business. We will strive to maintain a facility that is free from identified slip, trip and fall hazards. We have implemented a prevention program that considers the behaviors of people, our equipment, our work methods, processes and finally the environment to reduce and prevent slip, trip and fall accidents. We expect all employees to cooperate in this very important initiative to ensure its success.”

3. Training

Management believes that employee involvement in the site’s safety and health program can only be successful when everyone on the site receives sufficient training to understand what their safety responsibilities and opportunities are, and how to fulfill them. Therefore, training is a high priority to help ensure a safe workplace.

All employees will receive awareness training during orientation. Employees who conduct formal workplace inspections will be trained on their responsibilities and on how to perform them.

4. Housekeeping standards

Housekeeping plays such a critical role in the success of our slip, trip and fall prevention program that all employees must make housekeeping their top priority. The following are minimum accepted guidelines:

• Work areas are to be kept clean throughout your shift and a thorough review and cleaning must be completed prior to leaving your shift.
• Walkways will be kept clear of electric cords, hoses or any other potential hazards. If walkways cannot be kept clear then they need to be blocked off until the task is completed.
• Spill areas must be secured until the spill is removed.
• Stock or finished goods will not be stored on stairs, in walkways or in such a manner that would be a hazard to anyone walking through.

5. Seasonal issues

The changing seasons create unique weather-related conditions for which the following procedures have been developed:

• All building entrances will be cleaned of snow and ice, and will be treated with salt, one hour prior to the opening of business.
• Exterior walkways will be inspected hourly and treated as needed.
• Use the form “Snow and Ice Control Record” found in Appendix E to document the work.
• Parking lots will be inspected daily. Any snow or ice that has accumulated between cars will need to be removed.
• During the fall, daily inspections will be made and action taken as needed to ensure walkways are cleared of leaves.

6. Corrective maintenance procedure

When a hazard has been identified through inspection or our hazard reporting program, maintenance must be notified so that the problem can be corrected. The following is the procedure to accomplish this task:

• Any problem needs to be communicated to the manager immediately.
• The maintenance manager will inspect the problem and communicate the best action to take.
• If it can’t be corrected immediately, a temporary control will be put in place to prevent anyone from being injured.

7. Workplace inspection policy and procedure

Our goal is to ensure a safe, clean and hazard free environment for employees and customers. Workplace inspections will be conducted to identify and correct potential safety and health hazards.

Use our “Walking and Working Surfaces — Self Inspection Checklist” found in Appendix C to document the inspection.

• Inspections will be carried out by supervisors of their functional areas. The manager will inspect common areas and all outside areas including the parking lot.
• Any deficiencies or hazards must be acted upon to remove the hazard, warn of it or close off the area in question.

Three types of inspections are used to assess our facility. Each type of inspection has its own purpose.

Annual inspections

Once a year an inspection team made up of representatives of the organization will do a wall-to-wall walk through inspection of the entire worksite. They will use the “Walking and Working Surfaces — Self Inspection Checklist” found in Appendix C. The results of this inspection will be used to:

• Eliminate or control obvious hazards.
• Target specific work areas for more intensive investigation.
• Assist in revising the checklists used during periodic safety inspections.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of our slip, trip and fall prevention program.

Change of operations surveys

Changes include new equipment, changes to production processes or a change to the building structure or premises. Examine the changed conditions and make recommendations to eliminate or control any hazards that were or may be created as a result of the change. This needs to be comple ted during the design stage of any proposed changes to ensure recommendations are incorporated into the changes. The “Walking and Working Surfaces— Self Inspection Checklist” found in Appendix C can be used as a guide for this survey.

Periodic safety inspections

Supervisors or their appointees will inspect their work areas for hazards using the “Walking Surfaces Periodic Inspection Checklist.” The results of the periodic inspection and any action taken will be documented.

8. Responsibilities

It’s important that all employees understand their responsibilities. The following are some examples that can be tailored to fit your organization’s management structure.

Management responsibilities

• Ensure that sufficient employee time, supervisor support and funds are budgeted for safety equipment, training and to carry out the safety program.
• Evaluate supervisors each year to make sure they are carrying out their responsibilities as described in this program.
• Ensure that incidents are fully investigated and corrective action taken to prevent the hazardous conditions from developing again.
• Set a good example by following established safety rules and attending required training.

Supervisor responsibilities

• Supervisors must assure this program is adhered to and that all employees follow program policies and procedures.
• Ensure that each employee you supervise has received an initial orientation before beginning work.
• Observe the employees as they work. Promptly correct any unsafe behavior.
• Do a daily walk-around safety-check of the work area and promptly correct any hazards you find.
• Set a good example for employees by following safety rules and attending required training.
• Investigate all incidents in your area and report your findings to management.
• Talk to management about changes to work practices or equipment that will improve employee safety.

Employee Responsibilities

• Clean up spills and pick up debris to help ensure others are not injured on company property
• Report hazards to supervisors or managers promptly for corrective action.
• Follow safety rules, safety standards and training you receive as described in this program
• Report all injuries and near miss incidents to your supervisor promptly regardless of how serious.
• Make suggestions to your supervisor or management about changes you believe will improve employee safety.

Maintenance/engineering

• Must purchase waxes with non-skid characteristic and do not decrease the coefficient of friction of floor surfaces.
• Review floor cleaner data sheets to assure that no slippery floors are created.
• Must integrate the stair design requirements, uniformity of risers, and tread principles, ramp requirements and slope considerations into building design, and building modifications as appropriate.

Facility safety

• Will inspect buildings for hazards and inform maintenance and/or housekeeping of hazards that are identified.
• Will supply deicer in buckets along with scoops at building entrances during inclement weather.
• Check floor surfaces as requested for slip or trip hazards, determine any needed corrective action and notify appropriate party to correct the problem.

Housekeeping

• Must use barricades when the floor they are working on is slippery or presents a tripping hazard. Barricades will be removed as soon as the hazard is corrected.
• Place non-skid mats at building entrances during inclement weather. Inspect mats periodically or as needed to ensure they are properly controlling the hazard.

9. Safety rules

The following basic safety rules have been established to control slip, trip and fall accidents. These rules are in addition to safety rules that must be followed when doing particular jobs or operating certain equipment. Failure to comply with these rules will result in disciplinary action.

• Always take the proper safety precautions before doing a job. If a job is unsafe, report it to your supervisor. We will find a safer way to do that job.
• Horseplay, running and fighting are prohibited.
• Clean up spills immediately. Replace all tools and supplies after use.
• Keep tools or materials out of designated walkways.
• Protect all spill areas. If needed, get someone to help clean up the spill or guard the spill while you get the necessary equipment to clean the spill.
• If you see a slip or trip hazard do something about it. It’s the responsibility of everyone to identify and control hazards.
• Make sure scraps don’t accumulate where they will become a hazard. Good housekeeping helps prevent injuries.

Proper footwear is an important component of our slip, trip and fall prevention program. Footwear needs to be appropriate for the task. In many of the work areas other than our offices, high heeled shoes and leather soled shoes are considered unsafe and must be avoided. It is the responsibility of each employee to obtain and maintain slip resistant footwear in a serviceable condition. Supervisors will ensure that employees are wearing appropriate slip resistant footwear at all times in the workplace.

Mats and Runners

Our goal is to maintain all floor surfaces in a slip resistant condition. In those work areas or situations where this isn’t feasible, mats or runners will be used to provide slip resistance. It is everyone’s responsibility to monitor mats and runners to ensure they continue to provide proper slip resistance and have not become a tripping hazard.

Where mats have been used to control wet areas, either entry ways to the building or wet processes, the following conditions require immediate action:

• If pedestrian traffic leaves wet foot prints when stepping off the mat, the mat needs to be replaced with a dry one or an additional mat needs to be placed at the end of the first mat.
• If the mat has become wrinkled or bunched up it needs to be reset so it is flat and doesn’t present a tripping hazard.

10. Accident investigation procedure

All accidents will be investigated and analyzed to identify the root cause. The following steps will be taken when an accident occurs.

• Helping the injured person will be the primary concern immediately following an accident. Never leave the person alone. If assistance is needed send someone else or have someone stay with the person while you get help.
• If the injured party is not an employee, do not admit liability or fault for the accident. If they ask if we are going to pay for their medical costs simply state that someone from The Hanover Insurance Group will be in touch with them.
• Protect the accident scene to prevent anyone else from getting hurt and to preserve the accident scene in an “as is” condition to help ensure an accurate investigation.
• Contact the supervisor of the area where the accident occurred so they can begin the collection of data and accident analysis.
• The information will be collected and the analysis completed using our “Accident Investigation Report.”
• Photos need to be taken of the general area, any defective conditions and anything else that could be considered as a contributing factor of the accident.
• Once the root cause is determined, corrective action will be initiated immediately following standard procedure.

11. Additional tools and resources

The following resources are available to help in the development of your slip, trip and fall prevention program. They can be found on www.hanoverrisksolutions.com .

Loss Control Topics

• Preventing Restaurant Employee Slips and Falls
• Sidewalk Inspection Checklist
• Parking Lot Safety
• CPSC Tips for Public Playground Safety
• Fall Prevention Checklist
• NIOSH Slip, trip and fall prevention in the healthcare industry

To learn more about Hanover Risk Solutions, visit hanoverrisksolutions.com

171-0954 (3/16)       LC 11-187

12. Periodic inspection report

Modify this form to meet the unique characteristics of your facility. The items listed are a guide and may not include all your possible hazards.

171-0954 (3/14) LC 11-187

Sweeping log

An entry is to be made on this log every time the floor is swept or is observed to be free of foreign material. Sign you name and indicate the time of the observation or cleaning.

171-0954 (3/14)       LC 11-187

13. Walking and working surfaces — self-inspection checklist

Slips, trips, and falls constitute the majority of general industry accidents. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) standards for walking and working surfaces apply to all permanent places of employment, except where only domestic, mining, or agricultural work is performed. This “self-inspection” checklist, developed from OSHA guidance, can be used by supervisors to create a safer work environment.

171-1083 (02/14)       LC 10-265 H June 2010

Sample accident investigation form

Accident information.

Date of accident: __________________________________ Date of report: _______________________________________

Where did the accident occur? ___________________________________________________________________________

Time of accident: __________________   

Name(s) of injured: ____________________________________________________________________________________

Are these company employee(s)?   

Contractors?  

Names of non-company individuals (if applicable): ____________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Occupation of employee(s): _____________________________________________________________________________

Witnesses to accident: _________________________________________________________________________________

Description of any property damage: ______________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

Description of events: __________________________________________________________________________________

Contributing factors

Act(s) (describe): ______________________________________________________________________________________

Conditions (describe): __________________________________________________________________________________

Root cause(s) of accident: _______________________________________________________________________________

Corrective actions to take

(Describe what actions need to be taken to prevent a reoccurrence)

Report developed by:____________________________________Dept.: ____________________________________

Report reviewed by:_____________________________________ Date:_____________________________________

171-0830 (1/14) LC 12‐169

14. Snow and ice control record

PAGE __________

Instructions: Use this log to document efforts to maintain walking and driving surfaces during winter weather. Keeping completed records may improve your defense position in the event of an incident.

This material is provided for informational purposes only and does not provide any coverage or guarantee loss prevention. The examples in this material are provided as hypothetical and for illustration purposes only. The Hanover Insurance Company and its affiliates and subsidiaries (“The Hanover”) specifically disclaim any warranty or representation that acceptance of any recommendations contained herein will make any premises, or operation safe or in compliance with any law or regulation. By providing this information to you, The Hanover does not assume (and specifically disclaims) any duty, undertaking or responsibility to you. The decision to accept or implement any recommendation(s) or advice contained in this material must be made by you.

171-0878 (1/15)       LC 09-444 H

• Weill Cornell Medicine

Slips, Trips, and Falls: Understanding, Preventing, and Mitigating Risks

By Gian Joseph, Safety Advisor

As we enter the rainy and cold season, we face several risks , which include slips , trips, and fall s in our day-to-day activities. It is important t o be aware of hazards around us and learn how to properly identify and assess any risks with each step.  

Slips, trips, and falls (STFs) are common accidents that can lead to severe injuries. These incidents occur in various settings, from homes and workplaces to public spaces , and i t is essential to understand the causes, consequences, and , most importantly, strategies for prevention and mitigation.   

1. Understanding the Dynamics of STFs. STFs are caused by the following .  

Insu fficient friction between the shoe and the walking surface. Common causes include wet or greasy floors, spills, and loose debris (Slip and Fall Accidents, 2021).  

When a person's foot collides with an object or an uneven surface, it caus es them to lose balance. Typical trip hazards include cluttered walkways, electrical cords, uneven flooring, and damaged or upturned mats (Slip and Fall Accidents, 2021).  

2. The Impact of STFs  

Slips, trips, and falls have far-reaching effects, affecting individuals and society . Personal i njuries range from minor cuts , bruises, sprains , and abrasions to fractures, dislocations, and head injuries (National Safety Council, 2021). The medical expenses associated with treating STF-related injuries can be substantial , including hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing care (National Safety Council, 2021). STFs can result in missed workdays and reduced productivity for both individuals and employers. Workers' compensation claims and absenteeism contribute to economic costs (National Safety Council, 2021). Lastly, t he physical and psychological consequences of STFs can limit mobility, independence, and overall quality of life, especially among older adults ( Sahyoun et al., 2020).  

3. Prevention and Mitigation Strategies  

Preventing and mitigating STFs involves a combination of awareness, environmental modifications, and education . H ere are some ways you can take precaution s against STFs in your daily activities;  

Clear Pathways: Maintain clear, unobstructed walkways by removing clutter and tripping hazards such as cords, toys, and loose rugs (Occupational Safety and Health Administration [OSHA], 2002).  

Adequate Lighting: Ensure proper lighting in all areas, both indoors and outdoors, to improve visibility and reduce the risk of tripping over obstacles (OSHA, 2002).  

Slip-Resistant Flooring: Install slip-resistant flooring materials, especially in areas prone to moisture, like bathrooms and kitchens (OSHA, 2002).  

Footwear: Encourage the use of proper footwear with good traction, especially in environments where slip hazards are prevalent ( Sahyoun et al., 2020).  

Handrails and Guardrails: Install and maintain handrails and guardrails on stairs, ramps, and elevated platforms to provide support and prevent falls (OSHA, 2002).  

Warning Signs: Use signage to alert individuals to potential hazards, such as wet floors or uneven surfaces (OSHA, 2002).  

Education and Training: Promote awareness and provide training to individuals on recognizing and avoiding STF hazards (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health [NIOSH], 2015).  

Workplace Safety: Employers should implement safety protocols and conduct risk assessments in the workplace, addressing potential STF risks (NIOSH, 2015).  

Regular Maintenance: Routinely inspect and maintain buildings, walkways, and outdoor areas to identify and address potential hazards promptly (NIOSH, 2015).  

4. A Holistic Approach to STF Prevention  

Preventing and mitigating STFs require a collaborative approach involving individuals, organizations, and communities:  

Individuals : Exercise caution when walking, especially in unfamiliar or potentially hazardous environments. Wear appropriate footwear and take your time, especially in wet or slippery conditions ( Sahyoun et al., 2020).  

Employers: Create a safe work environment by identifying and mitigating STF risks. Provide training to employees on safety protocols and the proper use of equipment (OSHA, 2002).  

Property Owners and Managers: Ensure properties are well-maintained and free from hazards. Regularly inspect and address issues promptly (NIOSH, 2015).  

Government and Local Authorities: Enforce building codes and regulations that promote safety, especially in public spaces and commercial buildings (OSHA, 2002).  

Conclusion  

Slips, trips, and falls are preventable accidents that carry substantial personal, economic, and societal costs. By comprehending the causes, consequences, and prevention strategies, we can significantly reduce the incidence of STFs and mitigate their impact. Whether at home, at work, or in public spaces, prioritizing safety and fostering awareness about STFs is crucial for the well-being of individuals and communities. Let us strive collectively to create environments where everyone can move safely and confidently, free from the fear of falling.  

References:  

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). (2015). Preventing Slips, Trips, and Falls in Wholesale and Retail Trade Establishments. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2015-100/pdfs/2015-100.pdf  

National Safety Council. (2021). Injury Facts. https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/work/overview/work-safety-introduction/work-...  

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). (2002). OSHA Publication 3151-12R. Preventing Slips, Trips, and Falls in Wholesale and Retail Trade Establishments. https://www.osha.gov/Publications/osha3151.pdf  

Sahyoun , N. R., Pratt, L. A., & Lentzner , H. (2020). The Changing Profile of Nursing Home Residents: 1985-1997. Journal of Aging and Health, 12(3), 336-363.  

Slip and Fall Accidents. (2021). InjuryClaimCoach.com. https://www.injuryclaimcoach.com/slip-and-fall-accidents.html  

Please note that the sources cited are accurate as of the time of writing this article. For the most current information, consult authoritative sources and local health authorities.  

Go to the staff directory for individual contacts within EHS. You may also use the Weill Cornell Medicine online directory to search for faculty and staff.

Create an EHS Incident

Weill Cornell Medicine Environmental Health and Safety 402 East 67th Street Room LA-0020 New York, NY 10065 Phone: (646) 962-7233 Fax: (646) 962-0288

19th July, 2023

The Simple Guide To Slip And Trip Hazards At Work

In this simple guide to slip and trip hazards at work, we will look at some examples of slip and trip hazards, and the best ways to prevent those hazards from creating slips and trips in your workplace.

Slip and trip hazards probably won't be top of your health and safety concerns at work. But managing slip and trip hazards is a quick, easy (and often cheap) way to improve health and safety in your workplace.

30% of workplace injuries in the UK were caused by slips, trips and falls on the same level in 21/22, according to HSE statistics . That's over 150,000 reported accidents!

And that's just the reported injuries, where people were seriously injured. Most slips and trips probably don't get reported.

In this simple guide to slip and trip hazards at work, you can find some common examples of slip and trip hazards, and how to control them so you and your team don't become one of the 400+ people injured at work each day in the UK.

We'll start with trip hazards.

What is a trip hazard?

A trip hazard is something that could trip you up. The curled-up edge of a mat on your floor is a trip hazard. The cable running across your office is a trip hazard. The sticky-out corner of your desk could be a trip hazard. Anything left on the floor, that shouldn't be there, is probably a trip hazard.

And your trip hazards can trip people up, literally.

The more trip hazards you have, the more likely someone will trip up at some point. Any trip hazard could be an accident waiting to happen .

Examples of trip hazards

We've already discussed some trip hazards above. Before you keep reading, take a quick look around you. Can you see any trip hazards?

How many could you see? I bet you spotted a few. Trip hazards can be found in most places, here are some common examples of trip hazards at work:

• Uneven floors
• Trailing cables
• Obstructions
• Loose flooring
• Loose footwear
• Poor housekeeping
• Poor lighting
• Changes in floor level
• Untied shoelaces
• The straps of a bag

How to control trip hazards

The examples above might seem common, and some even unavoidable, but they shouldn't be ignored. Even small trips can cause serious injuries .

Not every trip hazard will create a huge risk, but by controlling the hazard, you can reduce the risk .

You can control trip hazards by:

• Removing them
• Moving them
• Fixing them
• Highlighting them

Remove trip hazards

If trip hazards can be removed, they should be. Very often, trips are caused by something being left on the floor that shouldn't be there.

And because it's not usually there, no one expects it, and so they trip over it!

For example, discarded packaging from your work might be creating a trip hazard for other people walking through your work area. By keeping your work area tidy and disposing of waste immediately, you help create a safer environment for yourself and others.

Removing a hazard is the best way to eliminate the risk. You can't trip over something that's not there.

Move trip hazards

You might not be able to remove a trip hazard, as it might be something that's needed.

For example, you can't dispose of a trailing cable if you need to be able to plug in the equipment you are using. But you can re-route the cable so that it doesn't cross a walkway.

Fix trip hazards

Some trip hazards don't need to be removed, but they can be fixed. For example, a pothole in a walkway can be fixed by resurfacing or filling the hole. Or a frayed carpet edge can be replaced.

Sometimes, a temporary fix might be all that's necessary. For example, putting a cover or ramp over a trailing cable or an uneven surface.

Highlight trip hazards

If something can't be removed, you could highlight it instead. Trips usually happen when the hazard is not expected.

If you can warn people of the hazard, e.g. making a stair tread a contrasting colour or making sure that lighting is good in walkways, it helps people to see the hazard before it trips them up.

What is a slip hazard?

A slip hazard is any hazard that creates a risk of slipping. The rainwater coming in on people's shoes is a slip hazard. The floor wet from being mopped is a slip hazard.

And it's not just water and liquids that are slip hazards. The smooth soles of your shoes could be a slip hazard. A dusty floor can be a slip hazard.

Slip hazards, as the name suggests, can make people slip.

Skip hazards are usually created by something temporary, like rain, ice, dust, cleaning, or leaks.

Examples of slip hazards

We've mentioned a few slip hazards above. Before you keep reading, can you think of any more?

Think about your workplace and different weather events or the different activities that happen. Do any slip hazards get created?

How many could you think of? Here are some common examples of slip hazards at work:

• Slippery floors
• Dusty floors
• Loose floor coverings
• Slippery soles
• Icy conditions

How to control slip hazards

Like trip hazards, slip hazards being present are a sign that people could get hurt. Broken legs, backs, arms and even head injuries can happen as a result of slip hazards being uncontrolled.

If you control the hazard, you can reduce the risk, and prevent slips in your workplace.

You can control slip hazards by:

• Preventing them

Prevent slip hazards

Slip hazards can occur due to new situations, rather than being permanent.

For example, a floor might not usually be slippy, but during wet weather, people's shoes bring rainwater in creating a slippery surface. Or during winter puddles may freeze.

While these slip hazards are not permanent, they can be predictable. If you have a tiled floor or smooth floor near an entrance, it's likely to get wet and slippery when people enter with wet shoes.

Using control measures like entrance mats to dry shoes, clearing ice from walkways, and having suitable a footwear policy can ensure that slip hazards are less likely to be created.

Remove slip hazards

Some slip hazards can't easily be predicted, like a burst pipe or a spilt drink or a leaky container. But they should be removed (and the source of the leak or spill fixed) as quickly as possible.

If you have a storage area, or an activity, that contains liquids, providing spill kits and training for what to do if a spill occurs can help make sure that any spill hazards get removed before they slip you up.

Highlight slip hazards

Not every slip hazard can be prevented or removed. For example, when you are mopping a floor, it's probably going to be slippery during the activity.

And if you are doing an activity that creates dust or loose fragments, the floor might be slippery until you are done and can clean it up.

In addition to making sure those doing the activity are wearing suitable footwear, you should also highlight the risk to other people so they don't accidentally step onto a slippery surface.

You could use a simple warning sign, or temporary barriers, depending on the risk level.

Download the free slips and trips toolbox talk template as a short refresher on slips and trips for you and your team.

This article was written by Emma at HASpod . Emma has over 10 years experience in health and safety and BSc (Hons) Construction Management. She is NEBOSH qualified and Tech IOSH.

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How to prevent slips trips and falls in the workplace

In the workplace, slips, trips, and falls are among the most common causes of injury and can lead to serious consequences.

These accidents can result in lost workdays, decreased productivity, and even severe health repercussions for employees.

However, with proper awareness and preventive measures, these incidents can be significantly reduced.

Here is a detailed guide on how to prevent slips, trips, and falls in the workplace.

Understanding the Risks

Before diving into prevention strategies, it's important to understand the common causes of these accidents:

Slips usually occur when there's a lack of friction between the footwear and the walking surface, often due to wet or oily floors.

Trips happen when an individual’s foot collides with an object, causing them to lose balance. This can be due to clutter, uneven surfaces, or exposed cables.

Falls can be a result of slips and trips but also include falls from heights, such as ladders or scaffolding.

Maintain a Clean and Organised Environment

A tidy workplace is fundamental in preventing slips and trips.

Regular removal of debris, scrap materials, and other obstacles from walkways and work areas is crucial. This includes proper disposal of waste and orderly stacking of materials.

Conduct routine inspections to identify and rectify potential hazards, such as loose carpeting, uneven flooring, or exposed cords and cables.

Immediate cleaning of spills and clearly marking wet areas is essential to prevent slips, especially on surfaces like concrete which can become extremely slick when wet.

Ensure Adequate Lighting

Good lighting is crucial in preventing falls, particularly in high-risk areas.

Ensure that all areas of the workplace, especially hallways, staircases, and outdoor walking areas, are well-lit.

Conduct frequent checks and maintenance of lighting equipment to ensure it is functioning correctly, especially in temporary work zones. Replace any burnt-out bulbs and repair malfunctioning lights promptly.

Have reliable emergency lighting in place to prevent accidents during power outages or other emergencies.

Implement Proper Footwear Policies

Appropriate footwear can significantly reduce the risk of slips and falls.

• Non-Slip Footwear: Workers should wear boots with strong grip and support to prevent slips and provide stability on uneven surfaces.
• Footwear Policies: Develop and enforce clear policies regarding appropriate footwear in the workplace, tailored to different areas and job functions.
• Regular Monitoring: Encourage workers to regularly check their footwear for wear and tear and replace them as needed.

Training and Awareness Programs

Educating employees about the risks and prevention methods is a key aspect of reducing accidents.

Conduct training sessions to educate employees on identifying and mitigating hazards.

Hold regular toolbox talks to discuss specific safety topics and encourage employees to share concerns or suggestions.

Use of Signage and Barriers

Clearly marked signs and physical barriers can guide behaviour and prevent accidents.

• Warning Signs: Use warning signs to indicate slippery surfaces, uneven ground, or changes in elevation like steps or ramps.
• Physical Barriers: Install barriers or guardrails in high-risk areas, such as near open ledges or where elevation changes occur.

Regular Site Inspections

Conducting frequent site inspections to identify and address hazards is essential in a dynamic construction environment.

Perform regular risk assessments focusing on potential slip, trip, and fall hazards and implement corrective actions promptly.

Foster an environment where workers feel comfortable reporting potential hazards they observe.

Preventing slips, trips, and falls in the workplace requires a combination of environmental maintenance, appropriate equipment, employee education, and strict adherence to safety policies.

By focusing on these areas, employers can create a safer environment, significantly reducing the likelihood of such accidents.

It's important for businesses to recognise that investing in these preventive measures not only protects their employees but also enhances overall productivity and workplace morale.

Toolbox talks are an invaluable tool in preventing slips, trips and falls on site - see how you could use the example below to help.

Prevent slips trips and falls by using a digital toolbox talk on slips trips and falls

Use toolbox talks to prevent slips trips and falls on site.

Toolbox talks are an effective way to raise awareness and educate employees about the specific risks of slips, trips, and falls in the workplace, fostering a culture of safety and mindfulness.

Use a toolbox talk slips trips and falls template to engage your team in regular discussions on hazard identification, preventive measures, and best practices.

It comes standardised with fields and sections to capture slips trips and fall hazards, what talking points you want to cover, take attendance and team feedback.

Safety Toolbox Talk template

This toolbox talk template is quick and easy to complete and signoff on site, and keeps all of your toolbox talks neatly organised and professional.

Toolbox Talk Noise Pollution template

Keep your team aware of noise pollution, ways to manage risks and reduce noise with this Toolbox Talk template.

Site Security Toolbox Talk template

Keep your team up to date with site security with this Toolbox Talk Site Security.

Sitemate builds best in class tools for built world companies.

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Slips, Trips and Falls (Prevention of)

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Best Practices to Prevent Slips and Trips in the Workplace

Slip and trip injuries are some of the most common injuries employees experience on the job. These injuries are preventable. There are many safety best practices that can be implemented to reduce the risk of these injuries.

Slip and Trip Injury Statistics

As stated above, slip and trip injuries are extremely common in the workplace. It is difficult to find slip and trip injury fatal injury statistics without including falls in the data as well. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that there were 805 fatal work injuries due to slips, trips, and falls in 2020. There were 30,160 non-fatal injuries due to slips and trips that required days away from work in 2020.

These numbers do not include the injuries that an employee had to get medical care for but did not miss work. It is safe to say that there are most likely hundreds of thousands of slips and trips occurring every single year.

10 Ways to Prevent Slips and Trips in the Workplace

There are many different ways slips and trips can be prevented in the workplace. These injuries can be difficult to prevent due to the sheer amount of exposure that is present due to employees walking around the workplace all day, but it is not impossible.

Browse the ten safety best practices provided below. Some of the ideas will be more applicable to your workplace than others. A combination of safeguards is the most effective way to prevent workplace injuries when completely eliminating a hazard is not possible.

Ensure Mats and Rugs Are Secure

Employees can slip or trip due to loose mats or rugs. It is vital that mats and rugs are secured to the floor. They should not move when someone steps on them. The edges should be secured so that they do not come up, which can result in an employee tripping over the mat or rug. This commonly occurs when opening doors causes the edge of the mat or rug to pull up.

Barricade Unsafe Areas

Many workplaces are extremely large and house a variety of work processes. There are many areas where pedestrians need to be, and there may be various areas where employees should not enter. Barricades are an example of an engineering control, which is one of the most effective safeguards that can be implemented. By barricading hazardous work areas, slips and trips are effectively eliminated since employees are no longer exposed to walking through the area.

Examples of areas that should be barricaded include areas with moving equipment, storage areas for materials that are not picked by hand, areas that are consistently wet, etc.

Clearly Mark Paths of Travel

For areas where employees are allowed to enter and walk through, marking paths of travel is a best practice. By clearly marking the paths of travel, employees know where they should and should not walk. These paths also communicate to equipment operators where pedestrians may be, as well as communicate that objects or materials should not be stored in these areas.

Organize Work Areas

Poor organization of work areas is one of the leading causes of trip injuries in the workplace. When the organization of a facility is poor, there is an increased risk of employees to trip over something. All tools, supplies, materials, and other objects should be neatly stored away from walking paths. Employees should understand where everything is kept in a workplace.

Practice Good Housekeeping

Good housekeeping is closely related to ensuring work areas are organized. Once the proper organization of a work area is set up, efforts need to be directed at maintaining the areas through proper housekeeping. Employees need to understand that everything needs to be put back into its place after use and that there should be nothing placed on the ground if it is not meant to be there. Holding employees accountable for the cleanliness of their work areas is vital to ensuring the workplace is well-maintained.

Keep Floors Dry

Keeping floors dry is part of the housekeeping process. For some workplaces, doing so can be difficult. Work processes can create slippery floors. Also, workplaces that are exposed to the weather may be frequently wet, resulting in slick surfaces. Any moisture or spills should be immediately marked and cleaned up whenever possible if employees are required to walk through them.

Install Anti Slip Tape Where Needed

Installing anti-slip tape is a great way to reduce the risk of slips and falls. It is commonly applied on stairs to ensure sufficient traction of employees’ shoes and the surface of the stairs. This tape can also be applied near entryways, where moisture may be present, or other work areas that tend to get slick.

Improve Lighting

Poor lighting contributes to many slips and trips in the workplace. When employees are not able to see where they are walking, they may not see changes in elevation, objects on the ground, or slick surfaces. All work areas where employees are required to enter or walk through should be adequately lit so that they can make it where they need to go safely. Any broken lights should be immediately replaced.

Ensure Employees Can Clean Footwear When Needed

For workplaces where employees must walk outdoors and indoors, they should be provided a way to clean their shoes and boots. It is common that there are mats present in entry doors at most workplaces, but additional safeguards may be needed. Mats should be placed at any entry and exit door so employees can wipe their footwear off when coming into the facility.

Additionally, water hoses, hand brushes, or boot brushes may be needed for workplaces where employees are walking through mud or other sticky substances and then coming indoors. Mats will not suffice to get these employees’ footwear clean.

Require Slip-Resistant Footwear in the Workplace

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is the last line of defense for preventing injuries. Slip-resistant footwear is an example of personal protective equipment that can be utilized to reduce the risk of slips in the workplace. NIOSH completed a study of 17,000 food services workers from 226 school districts across the United States, and it found that using 5-star rated slip-resistant shoes significantly reduced workers’ compensation claims for slip injuries.

The ASTM F2913 testing standard is most commonly referred to for measuring the slip resistance of footwear in action.

Slip and trip injuries can be difficult to prevent. After all, employees spend a lot of the work day walking around the workplace. By following the safety best practices mentioned in this post as well as other ones, these injuries can be prevented. Employees need to be trained on these safe work practices and held accountable for following these practices. Consistency in implementing and maintaining safeguards is vital for preventing any type of workplace injury.

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Young Workers: Slips, Trips, and Falls

Slips, trips, and falls are common causes of injuries.

Young workers can slip when they lose their footing, trip when catching their foot on or in something, and fall when coming down a ladder. Common causes of slips, trips, and falls include:

• Greasy floors
• Snow and rain
• Loose mats or rugs
• Stepladders

Did you know?

Falls from portable ladders are one of the leading causes of occupational fatalities and injuries.

Poor lighting and clutter can also cause injuries such as sprains, bruises, fractures, scratches, and cuts.

Tips to Stay Safe

Employers can remind young workers to:

• Clean up spills and anything slippery. Check with supervisors about how to use cleaning products. Don’t use cleaners that could make the floor slippery.
• Clear walkways, stairs, and lobbies of anything that might be a tripping hazard, such as cords, wires, empty boxes, and clutter.
• Make sure that floor mats lay flat rather than wrinkled or bunched.
• Use handrails when walking up and down steps.
• Before using any ladder or stepladder, make sure it opens fully.
• Check that ladder extensions are fully locked and that the ladder legs are stable on a flat, non-slippery surface.
• Clean off any slippery material on the rungs, steps, or feet of a ladder before use.
• Don’t go over the load limit noted on the ladder.

Slip-Resistant Shoes: Learn how 5-star rated slip-resistant shoes can reduce food services worker slip injuries.

• Infographic (also available in Spanish )

Preventing Slips, Trips, and Falls in Wholesale and Retail Trade Establishments

Slip, Trip, and Fall Prevention for Healthcare Workers

• Portable Ladder Safety Quick Card
• Ladder Safety App
• Safe Work for Young Workers
• Young Workers – Employer Responsibilities for Keeping Young Workers Safe

Talking Safety Curriculum

Research from NIOSH illustrates that more needs to be done to ensure that as young people join the workforce they are better protected from hazards. The “ Talking Safety Curriculum ”, intended for use in classrooms and other group settings, can be used for this purpose.

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Slips, trips and falls

Each year slips, trips and falls cause thousands of preventable injuries.

• Safety by topic

The most common ones are: 

• musculoskeletal injuries (injuries to muscles, nerves, tendons, joints, cartilage and spinal discs)
• dislocations. 

More serious injuries and deaths can also happen. 

Slip, trip and fall hazards 

Some things that can cause you to slip are: 

• the wrong footwear 
• polished, wet or greasy floors. 

In most cases, people trip on low obstacles that are hard to spot, such as: 

• uneven edges in flooring 
• loose mats 
• open drawers 
• untidy tools, or 
• electrical cables. 

Falls can result from a slip or trip, but many occur from low heights. For example: 

• ditches, or 
• wet or slippery surfaces. 

WHS duties  

As a person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU), you must always aim to eliminate the risk of slips, trips and falls, so far as is reasonably practicable. If that is not possible, you must minimise risks so far as is reasonably practicable. 

You must identify hazards, and assess and control risks. Think about your: 

• work areas 
• work procedures 
• equipment.  

Consulting with workers can help you find better and easier ways to identify and minimise risks. You should also review control measures to ensure they are working as planned.  

Workers also have duties, including taking reasonable care for their own health and safety. 

Managing risks  

The best way to manage the risk of slips, trips and falls is to eliminate hazards at the design stage of the workplace.  

If you can’t eliminate the risk, you must minimise it so far as is reasonably practicable. 

Designing safe workplaces 

In designing floors, stairs, lighting, drainage and storage: 

• keep floors at a single level and use slip-resistant floor coverings 
• install extra power points to avoid trip hazards from trailing cords 
• ensure all areas are well lit, particularly stairwells 
• have good drainage and slip resistant grates 
• have lots of storage, so things aren’t left in walkways. 

Safe work procedures 

Work procedures can also impact on the incidence of slips, trips and falls. Have clear procedures to: 

• remove rubbish to avoid trip hazards 
• return tools and other items to their storage areas after use 
• report and clean spills 

Keep the workplace clean 

All workers share responsibility for keeping the workplace clean and tidy.  

Make sure you: 

• have adequate rubbish and recycling bins 
• have cleaning schedules in place 
• dry floors after cleaning 
• don’t have cords on walkway or work area floors. 

Training helps workers become more aware of slip and trip hazards and helps to prevent injuries.  

Training should include:  

• awareness of slip and trip hazards 
• identifying effective control measures 
• duties of workers. 

Using personal protective equipment (PPE) 

As a PCBU, you should only use PPE: 

• after you have implemented all other possible control measures. 
• as an interim measure until you can use a better control measure 
• as a backup in addition to other control measures. 

Slip-resistant footwear 

Slip-resistant footwear is a type of PPE. 

Slip-resistant footwear should be appropriate for the work and workers must wear it properly. 

In wet conditions, the shoe sole tread should: 

• be deep enough to help penetrate the surface water 
• make direct contact with the floor. 

In dry conditions, the shoe sole tread: 

• pattern should be a flat bottom construction 
• should grip the floor with maximum contact area. 

Types of slip-resistant footwear 

Urethane and rubber soles are more slip resistant than vinyl and leather soles.  

Sole materials that have tiny cell like features are slip resistant. 

Supporting information

• Model Code of Practice: How to manage work health and safety risks  
• Model Code of Practice: Managing the work environment and facilities 
• Slips and trips at the workplace fact sheet  
• The interactive safe work method statement (SWMS) tool provides information on preparing, using and reviewing SWMS for high risk construction work.

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