Slipping on water, tripping over wires and fallings are all kinds of accidents that happen far too often in the workplace. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to protect yourself and others. Whether it’s getting enough sleep or picking up things that fall on the floor, there are many ways to prevent injuries in the workplace.
Slipping, tripping and falling accidents are a leading cause of deaths in the United States, accounting for around 15 percent of all accidental deaths each year.
Around 25 percent of all reported workplace injuries are slip, trip and fall accidents. With such a high percentage of cases related to slipping, tripping and falling, it’s important to take steps to protect yourself, whether you’re an employee or employer.
There are several reasons why these accidents happen. They include slipping or tripping on clutter, electrical cords or uneven floors. Sloped surfaces and wet or greasy floors are another risk. Of course, these are just a few potential risk factors.
What can you do to keep the workplace safer?
Start by maintaining good practices in the workplace. Always put trash in a trash can, mop up wet floors and put up a wet-floor sign. If there are cords or other things on the floor that pose a tripping hazard, move them or tape them down with duct tape to keep them in place.
It’s also a good idea to participate in safety programs. Having everyone in the workplace on the same page and following the same rules helps keep all of the employees safe. A good safety program can make a difference and help employers avoid unwanted workers’ compensation claims.
Source: Grainger, “6 Tips to Help Prevent Slips, Trips and Falls,” accessed Feb. 16, 2018
