Falls due to slips and trips make up a significant percentage in what is called as time-loss injuries in the workplace. There is pain, suffering, and even death involved in these types of accidents. What is more disappointing about these cases is that it doesn’t really have to happen especially when safety measures are prioritized over anything else. Preventing falls due to slips and trips requires a thorough understanding of how falls occur, including the identification of trouble areas.

So, how do falls due to slips and trips occur? First, slips happen when there is little friction between the surface and the person’s footwear. Causes of slips include liquid spills, wet surfaces, loosely anchored mats, sudden change in traction in the walking surface, and weather hazards. Trips, on the other hand, occur when your foot hits an object which causes you to get off balance. Tripping is commonly caused by clutter, wrinkled carpeting, poor lighting, uneven walking surfaces, and an obstructed view.

Knowing the reasons for slips and trips is important because it helps you prevent falls resulting from it. To avoid falls due to slips and trips, good housekeeping is the most fundamental factor to focus on. Clean all spills immediately, mark off wet areas, sweep debris from the floor, keep walkways free from clutter, secure carpets, cover cables that cross walkways, and ensure good lighting always.

Next to housekeeping, you can change the type of walking surface to avoid slips and falls. Whether you install mats, carpets, or use abrasive-filled paint, it depends on how slip-proof you want your walkway to be. Even then, you still need to have good housekeeping. Another advantage of slip-proof flooring is that it reduces foot fatigue.

The right footwear is also essential in avoiding slips and falls. Proper footwear with anti-slip properties is available from various manufacturers. Be sure to invest in anti-slip footwear if your employees’ jobs require them to work on slippery surfaces.

On a more personal note, remind your employees that they can avoid slips and falls in the workplace by taking the time to pay attention to where they are going. They must also have the conscious effort of adjusting their stride to whatever they are doing and the kind of surface they will be walking in. If they have to work in the dark, make sure they bring a flashlight so they can see where they are going.

In cases like these, prevention is always better. Therefore, see to it that you take the necessary precautions to avoid slips and falls in the workplace. Yes, employers have the responsibility to look after their employees’ welfare, but you have to make your employees aware that they still have to take responsibility for their own actions.

Preventing falls due to slips and trips is necessary for a healthier workplace. It will save you from the possible lawsuits that come as a result of the injuries from these accidents. Therefore, be very vigilant about implementing safety procedures in your office.

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