Falls are the leading cause of death in the workplace. Every year, thousands of workers are injured or killed as a result of a fall. In order to keep your workplace safe, it is important to understand the dangers of falls and take steps to prevent them. In this blog post, we will discuss 8 steps that you can take to protect yourself from falls and prevent injuries in the workplace.

Falls can be caused by slippery surfaces, loose clothing or equipment, poor lighting, changes in elevation, and many other factors. They are most commonly seen in construction and industrial settings, but can also happen in office buildings, warehouses, and homes. 

Common injuries from falls:

• Concussion
• Broken bones
• Sprains and strains
• Internal bleeding
• Organ damage

Although death is a less likely result of a fall in the workplace, it does happen, and is in fact the leading cause of death at work.

Preventing Falls:

Identify the hazards in your workplace:

Take a look around and identify any areas where a fall could occur. Be sure to also check for potential hazards when working at heights or near edges. Report the information to a supervisor so all co-workers will be aware of it.

Eliminate the hazards that you have identified

If possible, remove the hazard completely. If that is not possible, take steps to reduce the risk of falling, such as installing guardrails or using safety nets.

Use the proper safety equipment:

If you are working at heights, be sure to wear a harness and tie off to a secure anchor point. If you are working near an edge, use fall protection equipment such as guardrails or scaffolding.

Maintain good housekeeping practices:

Keep your work area clean and free of clutter. Be sure to sweep up any loose debris that could cause you to trip and fall.

Wear the proper clothing and footwear: 

Avoid loose clothing or jewelry that could get caught on something and cause you to fall. Wear shoes with good traction to help prevent slips and falls.

Be aware of your surroundings:

Pay attention to what you are doing and where you are walking. Watch for potential hazards such as wet floors, loose carpet, or objects in your path.

Know your limitations:

If you feel unwell, tired or dizzy, do not engage in tasks where falling as a potential hazard. It is also important to stay hydrated and eat regular meals to maintain your energy level. Do not attempt to do something that you are not physically able to do. If you are unsure of how to do something, ask for help from a supervisor or co-worker.

Never work alone:

If possible, always have someone else with you when working in potentially dangerous areas. This will help to ensure that someone is there to assist you if you should fall.

What to do in the event of a fall in the workplace:

• Call for help
• Stay calm
• Try to stop the fall if possible
• Protect your head and neck
• Wait for help to arrive before moving. Moving could make any injuries worse.
• Seek medical attention
• Report the incident

Falls are a leading cause of death in the workplace, but they are also preventable. By following these eleven steps, you can protect yourself from falls and keep your workplace safe. 

This Post Is Part Of A Series: 101 Toolbox Topic Ideas For The Construction Industry
Do you struggle to come up with toolbox talk ideas each week to discuss with your workers? Fear no more, Work Safety QLD is here to the rescue with 101 Free Toolbox Talk Ideas for the Construction Industry.