Tag Archive for: Safety at Work

The Importance of Workplace Safety in Reducing Risks

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Creating a safe workplace isn’t just about compliance; it’s about protecting your team, boosting morale, and securing long-term success for your business. A robust workplace safety program does more than prevent accidents; it reduces costs, enhances productivity, and strengthens your brand reputation. For example, businesses with strong safety measures cut injury rates by 50%, according to the National Safety Council.

The most valuable asset for any organization is its employees. Their well-being and productivity directly impact the success of the business. When employees feel safe, their engagement and efficiency improve, leading to fewer absences and smoother workflows. From proactive safety training to proper equipment maintenance, every effort contributes to a culture of trust and well-being. By addressing potential hazards and prioritizing safety, you’re not only safeguarding your team but also building a foundation for sustained growth and resilience.

This blog will explore the essential elements of workplace safety to protect your team and your business.

Identifying Potential Hazards in the Workplace

The first step in creating a safe work environment is understanding the risks present in your operations. Hazards may differ across industries, but physical, chemical, and psychological hazards are some of the most common to evaluate regardless of business type or scale.

1. Physical Hazards

Physical hazards include slips-and-falls, ladder safety, malfunctioning machinery, or inadequate lighting. For instance, in warehousing jobs a wet or uneven floor or cluttered walkways can pose significant risks to employees. When there is not a clear path, it more than likely that someone will get hurt. Improper ladder usage can lead to serious injuries or even fatalities. One common hazard occurs when workers use ladders on unstable or uneven surfaces, increasing the risk of tipping or collapse. Additionally, failing to secure the ladder properly or exceeding the weight limit can compromise its stability. This is why is it critical to observe proper use of equipment. Damaged equipment can also harm employees and produce faulty products. This can cause significant injuries and also comprise product quality. Equipment should be regularly inspected for wear and tear to minimize these risks. Poorly lit areas can cause accidents by blocking necessary warnings and instructions. Brightly lit areas ensures equipment is used safety and prevents mistakes from misuse.

2. Chemical Hazards

Businesses dealing with chemicals face unique challenges, ranging from harmful fumes to accidental spillage. Improper handling can lead not only to worker injuries but also to serious compliance challenges. Implement clear labeling systems and safety data sheets alongside safety training on hazardous materials management. Encourage employees to report any hazardous conditions to maintain safe practices.

3. Psychological Hazards

Safety doesn’t stop at physical risks. Workplace stress or burnout can negatively impact team performance and mental health as well. It is important to not overload your team and encourage them to take breaks when needed. Implementing an Employee Assistant Program (EAP) can help your team with numerous life instances such as therapy, career planning, or budgeting. This can help employees reduce stress and take action against burnout.

Common Types of Workplace Hazards

Workplace hazards come in various forms, often presenting risks that can impact employee safety and well-being. Heat stress and fatigue reduce productivity and focus. Meanwhile, slips, trips, and falls are frequently caused by wet floors, uneven surfaces, or cluttered pathways. Proper hand tool safety is equally critical, as the misuse or poor maintenance of tools can lead to injuries ranging from minor cuts to more severe harm. Identifying and addressing these hazards is essential to creating a safer work environment.

1. Heat Stress

Heat stress can sneak up on anyone exposed to excessive heat or exerting themselves in high temperatures, but recognizing its signs and preventing its escalation is essential. Symptoms like heavy sweating, muscle cramps, weakness, nausea, and dizziness are common indicators that your body is struggling to cool down. Protect yourself by taking simple yet effective actions, such as moving into a shaded or cool area when you start feeling overheated, wearing lightweight and breathable clothing, and staying hydrated by drinking water every 15 minutes. Remember, your team should steer clear of dehydrating beverages like coffee or soda, as they can worsen their condition. Prioritizing these steps can help your team stay cool and beat the heat.

2. Fatigue

Prevent fatigue and improve your well-being by incorporating regular stretching into your routine. Prolonged sitting can lead to muscle tension, stiffness, and strain in areas like the neck, arms, wrists, hands, back, and legs. Engaging in pre-shift stretches and warm-up exercises can significantly lower the risk of musculoskeletal injuries, enhance muscular balance and posture, and improve overall muscle coordination. It allows for a greater range of motion with less energy and contributes to improved mobility and reduced stiffness. Making stretching a priority is essential to stay energized and injury-free.

3. Slips, Trips, and Falls

Slips, trips and falls are responsible for many general industry accidents. They cause 15% of all accidental deaths, and are second only to motor vehicles as a cause of fatalities. 65% of fall-related injuries occur as a result of falls from same-level walking surfaces.

Warn employees to be mindful of potential fall hazards, including dusty or highly polished floors, poor lighting, and insufficient signage. Consider taking precausions to reduce risks. Foors should be clean and dry. Employees should wear non-slip shoes and maintain a steady and reasonable pace. Ensure pathways are clear and well-maintained without cords and hoses from walkways. Address any uneven surfaces as unsure footing can cause someone to slip or fall. Extra caution should be taken when transitioning between different surfaces or walking on uneven, wet, or icy terrain to prevent accidents.

4. Hand Tool Safety

The greatest risks associated with hand tools stem from misuse and poor maintenance. Hand tools encompass a wide range of items, from axes to wrenches. To ensure safety and efficiency, always select the correct tool and appropriate size for the task at hand. Before use, inspect tools for any signs of damage. Keep tools clean, and ensure cutting tools are sharp for optimal performance. Workers should receive proper training before using any tool for the first time. Store tools with sharp edges securely to prevent injuries and always wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling hand tools.

Implementing Safety Measures and Protocols

Once risks have been identified, it’s time to act. Implementing effective safety measures and protocols isn’t as daunting as it may seem. When employees are properly prepared, it minimizes the likelihood of accidents and possible injuries which create a safe and productive work environment. With the right strategies, businesses can remain compliant with regulatory standards like OSHA guidelines. By implementing these safety measures, businesses also protect their reputations and long-term viability while avoiding costly workplace injury claims.

1. Safety Training

Education is the bedrock of a safety-first culture. Regular, thorough safety training empowers employees to recognize hazards and effectively prevent accidents. It is imperative to review training for new machinery or procedure changes. Some key elements of safety training include compliance with OSHA regulations, hazard communication, emergency preparedness, and equipment maintenance and inspection.

It is important to not only provide initial safety training but also ongoing refresher courses to ensure all employees are up to date on best practices. This can be done through in-person training, online modules, or a combination of both. Continuing to prioritize safety in the workplace not only protects employees, but it can also save companies time and money. Employers who invest in safety training often see a decrease in work-related injuries, illnesses, and accidents.

2. Personal Protective Equipment

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) serves as a critical line of defense in safeguarding workers from potential hazards in the workplace. By wearing the appropriate PPE, such as helmets, gloves, goggles, or safety vests, employees can significantly reduce the risk of injuries from accidents, chemical exposure, or physical impact. Proper use of PPE not only protects individuals but also promotes a culture of safety and compliance within the organization.

3. Equipment and Tools

Proper maintenance of equipment and tools is not just a matter of routine upkeep; it’s a critical factor in ensuring workplace safety and operational efficiency. When tools are regularly inspected and maintained, businesses can significantly reduce the risk of accidents caused by equipment malfunctions or misuse. A well-maintained piece of equipment performs as expected, eliminating unexpected hazards that may arise from wear and tear. Additionally, keeping tools in optimal condition leads to consistent performance, minimizing downtime and enhancing overall productivity.

4. Policies and Procedures

Clearly outline safety policies in your employee handbook and ensure they are easily accessible to your entire team. These policies should address key areas such as emergency preparedness, proper chemical handling, safe equipment operation, and incident reporting protocols. Adhering to these guidelines is essential for maintaining a safe workplace and preventing injuries. Regularly review and update your policies to keep them relevant and effective, ensuring they remain a valuable resource for your organization.

5. Safety Committees

Form a safety committee consisting of representatives from various departments. This group will act as champions of workplace safety, evaluating risks and providing recommendations to leadership. Regular meetings and communication between the committee and management will help identify potential hazards and implement necessary protocols to prevent accidents. The safety committee should also be responsible for reviewing incident reports and suggesting improvements to existing policies. Encourage all employees to actively participate in safety discussions and report any concerns or suggestions to the committee.

Benefits of Prioritizing Workplace Safety

Why invest so much in a robust workplace safety strategy? The results are worth it. Implementing workplace safety does more than protect your team. It also reduces costs from violations, enhances productivity, ensures compliance, and builds a stronger brand. Following these actionable strategies can help you prevent workplace injuries and create a safer work environment. Here are a few significant benefits leaders won’t want to ignore.

1. Reducing Costs

Workplace accidents can lead to expensive worker’s comp claims, fines for regulatory violations, potential lawsuits, and even damage to a company’s reputation. These incidents not only impact a business financially but can also harm employee morale and productivity. By prioritizing safety measures and fostering a culture of awareness, businesses can significantly reduce preventable risks, safeguard their workforce, and save money by avoiding these unnecessary costs.

2. Enhanced Productivity

Employees perform best when they feel safe, both physically and emotionally. A secure work environment not only reduces absenteeism but also fosters a sense of trust and well-being among team members, allowing them to focus fully on their responsibilities. When employees are confident that their workplace prioritizes their safety, they are less likely to experience stress or distractions, leading to improved concentration and morale. This ensures smoother workflows, less downtime, and ultimately enhanced productivity. A strong commitment to workplace safety creates a positive cycle where employees feel valued, contributing to the overall success of the organization.

3. Meeting Compliance Standards

With increasing scrutiny on compliance challenges, falling behind on safety standards can have serious consequences, including hefty fines due to compliance violations. Proactively managing workplace safety not only helps prevent regulatory issues but also fosters a culture of accountability and care within your organization. Staying ahead of safety requirements ensures inspection-ready operations, protects employees from potential hazards, and demonstrates your commitment to maintaining a secure and compliant work environment.

4. Building a Stronger Brand

Prioritizing safety not only protects your workforce but also demonstrates a strong commitment to social responsibility, which plays a significant role in enhancing your business’s employer branding. When employees feel safe and valued, they are more likely to remain engaged, reducing turnover and boosting morale. Organizations that actively foster safer workplaces often attract top talent, as job seekers are increasingly drawn to places that prioritize their well-being. A strong focus on safety not only improves internal culture but also helps maintain a positive reputation among customers, establishing your business as a trusted and responsible leader.

Creating a Workplace Where Safety Thrives

At its core, workplace safety is about showing employees that their health and well-being are a priority in your organization. Fostering this culture requires continuous effort, from proactively identifying hazards and implementing training to updating policies and procedures. Implementing workplace safety intatives not only reduces harmful costs through preventive measures, but also enforces a culture of trust and responsibility.

By reducing risks, you not only protect your business but also build a foundation for lasting success. Curious to see where your business stands? Contact our team and take proactive steps toward a more secure, productive work environment.

Guidance to Keep Your Workers Safe from Coronavirus

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By now, you’re probably familiar with coronavirus, the global pandemic that’s causing towns, counties, states and even entire countries to issue “shelter in place” orders to prevent the spread of the disease. Coronavirus, or COVID-19, is a highly contagious virus that produces flu-like symptoms and can be deadly to the elderly or immunocompromised.

As business leaders, this requires reevaluating and restructuring everyday operations to keep employees safe.

How coronavirus spreads

Coronavirus is transmitted through the air, usually on droplets from coughing or sneezing. This illness is characterized by an upper respiratory infection, which can be deadly if you’re over age 65 or have underlying health issues. The most common symptoms include fever over 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit, a dry cough, and shortness of breath.

Symptoms may not appear until 2-14 days after contact, and it can be spread even if you don’t get sick. That’s why so many states are limiting contact between people and “social distancing” has become the nation’s new buzz phrase.

Health and safety guidelines to stop the spread of illness

If your business requires employees to be on-site to perform their job duties, it’s imperative that you take measures to ensure each person’s health and safety. Experts have offered the following tips:

  • • Promote good hygiene. Let your employees know that handwashing or sanitizing is a must, and provide sufficient breaks and facilities to keep up.
  • • Require sick employees to stay home. Since the virus spreads so easily, sick employees must stay home to avoid infecting other people—even if they don’t think they have coronavirus. They should not return to work until they’re fully recovered.
  • • Require traveling employees to stay home. Anyone who has traveled recently, whether for work or pleasure, is at increased risk of carrying the virus. It’s important that those employees stay home for two weeks in order to ensure they are not contagious.
  • • Promote social distancing. If you’re still working on-site, do your best to keep employees six feet or more from each other and customers whenever possible.

Other considerations

As the pandemic continues, savvy management will start making plans now to mitigate the financial burden on the business. Many companies, once resistant to allowing employees to work from home, are finding it’s the best way to keep their business alive. With today’s technology, it’s easier than ever to stay connected to your workforce, even if you can’t come face to face.

If you’re looking for great remote employees to get your business through the coronavirus pandemic, Award Staffing can connect you with candidates who have the skills to succeed. Reach out to us today to find out how we can help.

How to Stay Safe Working Outdoors This Winter

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If your job requires you to spend time outside during the winter months, it’s important to make workplace safety your top priority. You’ll need to protect yourself from common winter hazards, including hypothermia, frostbite and dangerous slips. To keep yourself as safe, focused and comfortable as possible this winter, follow these simple tips.

Wear the right clothes

Layer up with warm shirts, pants, sweaters, and coats to protect yourself from cold temperatures. By wearing several layers you’ll not only stay warm but also be able to shed layers as needed to adjust to warmer temperatures throughout the day. Wear wool socks and thick gloves to keep your hands and feet warm and to promote circulation while you work.

 It’s much harder to stay warm if your clothing gets wet, so it’s important to avoid getting damp when you’re working. Wear waterproof outer layers, including rain jackets and snow boots, to keep yourself dry. If your clothes get wet, change them as soon as possible. Working in wet clothing when temperatures are below freezing greatly increases the risk of hypothermia.

Take breaks

Breaks are required for workers of all kinds, but they’re especially important for workers who spend a lot of time outside exposed to adverse weather conditions. Take plenty of breaks throughout the day, especially if you begin to feel cold, shaky or weak. Take your breaks in a comfortable, dry place and sip on a hot beverage to warm yourself up.

Rest is also essential when you’re working outdoors during the winter. Being tired while working outside increases the risk of falls and other accidents. Get plenty of sleep before your shift to ensure that you’re well-rested and alert while you’re working.

Don’t forget to eat

When you’re working hard, it’s easy to forget about taking food and water breaks. Make sure you stop working periodically to eat nutritious meals and drink water to keep yourself hydrated. Warm meals, like soups and hot sandwiches, can keep you feeling full and give you the energy you need to continue working in winter weather conditions.

Prepare for the worst

If you work remotely, on a site or spend a lot of time on the road, keep emergency supplies handy. Include flares, candles, matches, nonperishable food, bottled water and emergency blankets in your kit. These supplies can keep you safe until you are able to get help in the event of an emergency, like a vehicle breakdown or unexpected road closure. Even if you never actually have to use your emergency kit, it’s always better to overprepare than to be caught without the necessary supplies in case of an emergency.

You might not be able to avoid exposure to winter weather conditions, but you can certainly do a lot to keep yourself safe on the job. Whether you only spend a few minutes outside while you’re on the clock or you’re constantly working outdoors for your job, these tips can keep you safe and comfortable no matter what the forecast has in store.

Whether you’re looking to move indoors or are ready for a different outdoor job, Award Staffing can help. Browse our job opportunities to find your future.

How to be Safe When Using Lift Equipment

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When associates are required to use mobile aerial work platforms, forklifts, or pallet jacks, it is essential to ensure they are operating them as safely as possible. This article will address the primary forms of lift equipment used by our associates and serves to remind us all of the importance of being aware of our surroundings to ensure that everyone remains safe and accident-free.

Lifts-

Lifts are designed to elevate personnel on a platform supported by scissors, masts or booms. Work platforms are essential when technicians must perform work for extended periods at elevations where a guarded, fixed work surface is not available. They offer flexible, versatile access to elevated locations and tend to be safer than ladders and other access equipment when working at higher elevations. But for these essential pieces of equipment to be as safe and efficient as possible, users must operate and maintain them according to regulations and manufacturer requirements.

Common safety violations leading to citations or accidents include:
• lack of fall protection
• tip-overs
• working near live power
• crushing and pinch-points
• objects falling from platforms
• unstable surfaces.

The leading causes of these problems include a lack of training, misuse of equipment, and not following manufacturer guidelines. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor’s fatality statistics, 75 percent of scissor lifts that tipped over resulted in fall deaths. In the remaining accidents, workers died from being struck by the falling scissor lift. About 40 percent of the tip-overs occurred when an operator extended the scissor lift higher than 15 feet, mostly while driving the unit. In 20 percent of the falls, the worker was ejected from the scissor lift, generally when the lift hit another object. Other fall deaths occurred after operators removed chains or guardrails or while users stood on or leaned over railings. (U.S. Bureau of Labor, 2015)

Forklift Safety-

Approximately 100 workers are killed each year as a result of forklift accidents. About 1/4 of these fatalities are caused by forklifts overturning. Other common causes are workers being struck by materials, workers being struck by the forklift, and workers falling from the forklift.

12 Forklift Safety Rules-
1. Only allow certified employees to operate forklifts
2. Maintain a safe following distance from other forklifts – about three vehicle lengths.
3. Follow speed limit and other regulations
4. Drive with load low – six or eight inches off the ground – and tilted slightly back
5. Exercise extra caution when driving over duckboards and bridge plates and make sure the load is within the forklift’s capacity as well
6. Raise and lower the load only when stopped
7. Stop and sound the horn at intersections
8. Avoid sharp turns.
9. Keep arms and legs inside the vehicle
10. Be sure to wear a hard hat and other protective equipment when necessary
11. Be sure the load is stable and secure
12. When leaving the forklift, lower the forks, neutralize the controls, shut it off and set the brakes (NCSU, 2015)

Pallet Jack Safety-

Often employers do not require certification for non-motorized pallet jacks because initially this equipment is not seen as a hazard, but they still can cause damage to employees and bystanders. Pallet jacks are used to make easy work out of what would usually be multiple person jobs lifting a load from point A to B eliminating the strain and energy while also saving time.

When operating a pallet jack (even for a short time span) workers should wear the correct safety equipment including steel capped boots, gloves, and safety eyewear (when transporting dangerous chemicals). There are also some safety precautions workers need to keep in mind when operating a pallet jack which includes:

• Never place feet under a machine
• Never exceed the advised capacity
• Use proper lifting techniques when loading/unloading and operating the pallet jack
• Move the load slowly to ensure safety in case surroundings change
• Always push the load (never pull the load)
• When going down on an incline, go in reverse
• Be wary of pinch points to avoid hand injuries
• Ensure the pallet jack is in excellent condition before use
• Use it correctly to ensure employee’s safety and the safety of the people in the surrounding area.
(U.S. Bureau of Labor, 2015)

Secure Work Areas-

Lift operators must be aware of activities taking place near their lift work areas. It is essential to keep the public, employees, and other building occupants away from these areas. They also should be careful when using lifts in public-traffic areas, especially where doorways might swing into the equipment, or nearby elevators might open. Isolating the immediate work area is essential to prevent anything from bumping into the lift, and to minimize worries about objects falling from the lift and hitting someone.

As the lift is elevating, the operator and employees on the ground should make sure appropriate clearance exists, so overhangs or other protrusions do not cross the path of the moving platform. This precaution will prevent injuries to workers and damage to building components. (OSHA, 2015)

In Conclusion-

Being mindful of the above information, ensuring that all associates receive the proper lift equipment training and re-training, and constantly reminding everyone to work safely, will help to reduce workplace incidents, control Workers’ Compensation costs, and ensure that our associates are as safe as possible.

Need some help? Contact Award Staffing. We will be able to match you up with interviews in your area so you can get the job opportunity you want. We have offices located in Bloomington, Chaska, Crystal, Delano, Maplewood, and Ramsey Minnesota to help you with your job search today!

How to Promote Safety with New Employees

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When you’re running a company, safety should be of utmost importance in order to reduce injury and stay on top of risk. Many unsafe situations can be attributed to new employees not knowing policies or not knowing what these unsafe situations are. Here’s how you can promote safety with new employees:

Be Proactive

Don’t wait for an incident to occur to tell a new employee that they’re in the wrong or not following directions closely enough. Sometimes, consequences of doing so can be so disastrous that the post-incident instructions might not even be effective. Make sure to train your new employee as you’re going about your day in order to increase the likelihood that you can proactively cover different issues.

Reward Good Behavior

Good behavior often goes hand-in-hand with safety, so it’s a great idea to reward good behavior. You can do this, however, your company decides, but it is important to publicly recognize new employees for good behavior. When you do so, you are cementing the importance of safety for your entire company and setting the precedent for any new employees to come.

Review the Policies Regularly

Your company has safety policies that help keep everyone in line, appropriate, and ultimately safe. It’s your job to see that your new employee knows the policies and adheres to them whenever possible. If you do this, you will avoid a lot of unsafe situations as the new employee will be more aware of their possibilities.

Ask if There Are Questions

A lot of unsafe situations are created simply by new employees being confused. Make sure you check in with your new employee regularly to see if s/he has any questions. If they don’t understand a rule or policy, keep explaining it to them in different ways until they do. Different employees have different learning styles, so as long as you cater to them, you should be on the right path.

If you have reviewed these suggestions and think it’s time to hire a new employee, contact Award Staffing. We will help you find an employee who is well-suited for your company and also is a rule follower. Much of the confusion surrounding safety can be avoided at the hiring stage; we’d like to help you do that.

 

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The Secret to a Healthy Back at Work

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Many factors in the workplace can cause back pain including heavy lifting, repetitive movements and sitting at a desk all day. It is essential to understand the facts about back pain at work to learn how to prevent it. Common causes of back pain at work are:

· Force- Exerting too much force on your back — such as by lifting or moving heavy objects — can cause injury.
· Repetition- Repeating certain movements, especially those that involve twisting or rotating your spine, can injure your back.
· Inactivity- Both an active job or a desk job can contribute to back pain, especially if you have poor posture or sit all day in a chair with inadequate back support.

Back pain and lifestyle factors-

Factors such as aging, being overweight, and poor physical condition also can contribute to back pain. It is essential to maintain a healthy weight to minimize stress on your back. To keep a healthy weight, it is necessary to eat a healthy diet. It is also vital to ensure that you consume enough calcium and vitamin D because these nutrients can help prevent osteoporosis, a condition that causes bones to become weak and brittle and is responsible for many of the bone fractures that lead to back pain.

It is crucial to combine aerobic exercise (swimming, walking, etc.) with exercises that strengthen and stretch your back muscles and abdomen. Exercises that increase your balance and strength can also decrease your risk of falling and injuring your back. (consider yoga and weight-bearing exercises). The Department of Health and Human Services recommends at least 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes a week of vigorous aerobic activity — preferably spread throughout the week — and strength training exercises at least twice a week.

Preventing back pain at work-

You can take steps to avoid and prevent back pain and injuries at work. For example:

Pay attention to posture:

When standing, balance your weight evenly on your feet. Don’t slouch. To promote good posture when sitting, choose a chair that supports your spinal curves. Adjust the height of your chair so that your feet rest flat on the floor or a footrest and your thighs are parallel to the floor. Remove your wallet or cell phone from your back pocket when sitting to prevent putting extra pressure on your buttocks or lower back.

Lift properly:

When lifting and carrying a heavy object, lift with your legs and tighten your core muscles. Hold the object close to your body. Maintain the natural curve of your back. Don’t twist when lifting. If an object is too heavy to lift safely, ask someone to help you.

Modify repetitive tasks:

Use lifting devices, when available, to help you lift loads. Try to alternate physically demanding tasks with less demanding ones. If you work at a computer, make sure that your monitor, keyboard, mouse, and chair are positioned correctly. If you frequently talk on the phone and type or write at the same time, place your phone on speaker or use a headset. Avoid unnecessary bending, twisting and reaching. Limit the time you spend carrying heavy briefcases, purses, and bags. Consider using a rolling suitcase.

Listen to your body:

If you must sit for a prolonged period, change your position often. Periodically walk around and gently stretch your muscles to relieve tension.

It is essential to examine your work environment and address situations that might aggravate your back. Even simple steps to ease or prevent back pain are steps in the right direction.

If you are looking for a short-term or long-term job, contact Award Staffing to help you with your job search. Our team of hiring professional located in Bloomington, Chaska, Crystal, Delano, Maplewood, and Ramsey Minnesota to help you with your job search today! We will be able to match you up with interviews in your area so you can get the job opportunity you want.

Slips, Trips, and Falls Safety at Work

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Slips, trips, and falls are responsible for many general industry accidents.  They cause 15% of all accidental deaths and are second only to motor vehicles as a cause of fatalities. 65% of fall-related injuries occur as a result of falls from same-level walking surfaces.

Conditions that create slip, trip, and fall hazards include:

• Dry product spills such as dusts, powders, granules and small metal parts
• Highly polished or freshly waxed floors
• Uneven or sloped surfaces
• Transitions from one surface to another (e.g., outdoors to indoors, carpet to vinyl, grid to concrete)
• Unanchored rugs or mats, loose floorboards or steps, missing tiles
• Gravel, grass, leaves, pine needles and other slippery natural materials
• Incorrect use of personal protective gear and fall prevention equipment
• Poor housekeeping such as clutter, obstacles in work areas, open cabinets and desk drawers
• Inadequate or no cautionary signage
• Dim lighting, glare, shadows or misty conditions
• Individual physical factors such as poor eyesight or depth perception; fatigue, dizziness, stress or illness; medication, alcohol and drug effects
• Behavioral factors such as talking on cell phones or eating while walking; hurrying and not paying attention to surroundings; carrying or moving cumbersome or tall objects; taking unsafe shortcuts; being off balance when mounting/dismounting vehicles, equipment, ladders or scaffolding; wearing inappropriate footwear for the conditions or wet, muddy or greasy shoes

 

Precautions and Prevention:

• Practicing good housekeeping
• Keeping floor surfaces clean and dry
• Providing adequate drainage in wet floor locations
• Ensuring wet floor warning signs are posted in and around wet floor locations
• Maintaining clear aisles and passageways
• Ensuring walkway surfaces are in good repair
• Keeping cords and hoses out of the way
• Reporting and cleaning up spills immediately
• Providing non-slip coatings or anti-skid surfaces
• Minimizing matting trip hazards
• Providing adequate lighting in all areas
• Eliminating uneven floor surfaces
• Setting standards for type(s) of footwear to be worn
• Training the workforce to take shorter, more vertical steps in tricky spots and to step over obstacles at an angle
• Establishing an “eyes on the path” and no running rule
• Be observant.
• Placement of warning signs or caution tape and cleaning up spills

 

When walking, employees should:

• Wear non-slip shoes or work boots
• Proceed at a reasonable pace and avoid distractions
• Use handrails when going up or down stairs and not skip steps
• Use a flashlight in dimly lit or dark areas
• Use extra caution when walking from one surface to another or when the walking surface is uneven, wet or icy
• Hold small loads close to their body and not carry anything that is too large or bulky to see over or around

 

Good housekeeping practices include:

• Stowing or covering electrical cords, cables, hoses and other trip hazards
• Repairing damaged ladders or steps and uneven walking surfaces
• Ensuring floors are clean, dry and not too slippery
• Closing all drawers and doors that protrude into walkways and aisles
• Installing skid-resistant materials on ramps and other sloped surfaces
• Cleaning up spills following strategic placement of caution signs
• Using moisture-absorbent, slide-proof floor mats, especially at entrances/exits
• Installing adequate lighting in walkways, staircases, ramps, hallways and other work areas

Also review other workplace safety topics here or if you’re looking to hire new employees but don’t know where to start, contact Award Staffing. We will be able to help you find the right employees for your unique business needs.

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