Slips, Trips, and Falls

One of the most common causes of a workplace injury could be a surprise to you. Hopefully, you will be more wary of slips, trips, and falls after this module.

Slips and Trips can happen on the "same level" (tripping on your own feet, over an electrical cable, over a loose piece of flooring) and Falls from a height (off a ladder, down the stairs, from a roof). 

Common Causes of Slips: 

• wet or oily surfaces - common in auto shops, kitchens

• weather hazards - after rain or snow

• loose rugs or mats

Common Causes of Trips:

• Obstructed view or poor lighting

• General clutter

• Uncovered cables

• Open cabinet or desk drawers

• Uneven walking surfaces

Fall Prevention:

Falls happen from a height. If you are working or completing your co-op placement at a workplace where you could have a fall, you should have your Working at Heights certification. Working at Heights will provide training on using anchors, fall arrest systems, toeboards, travel restraint systems, guardrails, etc. It will also inform you on how fall protection and rescue plans are designed and implemented.

If you are using a ladder at work, you must be trained on its use before using it, like any other machinery or tool!

Slips and Trips Prevention

Good Housekeeping

• Clean spills and wet areas immediately

• Remove junk and obstacles from walkways

• Tape down any carpets that don't lay flat

• Close all cabinets and desk drawers after use

• Cover any cables that are a trip hazard

• Keep working areas well lit

• Replace or put mats on slippery flooring

What can you do Personally?

• Wear non-slip shoes (mandatory in workplaces that tend to have wet or oily surfaces)

• Take your time and pay attention to where you're walkiing

• Walk at a pace that suits what you are doing

• Make wide turns at corners