Slips, trips and falls are one of the most common causes of injuries in the workplace. In fact, slips, trips and falls are the number one cause of worker’s compensation claims. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes of general slips, trips and falls, as well as prevention strategies that you can use to reduce your risk of injury.

Common injuries resulting from slips trips and falls:

• Sprains and strains
• Fractures
• Dislocations
• Concussions
• Head injuries
• Spinal cord injuries.

Common causes of slips, trips and falls:

• Wet or slippery surfaces
• Uneven surfaces
• Loose carpet or floor mats
• Cluttered floors or walkways
• Poorly lit areas

Preventing slips, trips and falls:

• Identify potential hazards and take steps to mitigate them.
• Keeping your work area clean and free of clutter.
• Wiping up spills immediately.
• Reporting wet or slippery areas to your supervisor.
• Wearing appropriate shoes for the workplace, particularly when working on slippery surfaces.
• Taking care when walking on uneven surfaces.

Serious injuries from slips, trips and falls:

While the majority of slips, trips and falls in the workplace result in minor injuries, they can be more serious, particularly with falls. Falls are one of the most common causes of injuries in the workplace and can result in broken bones, spinal cord damage and concussions. In some cases, falls can even be fatal. That’s why it’s so important to take steps to prevent them.

Serious injuries from slips, trips and falls can result in a loss of earnings while you recover, may cause long-term pain and suffering and could lead to permanent disability

Preventing serious fall in the workplace:

• Ensure that all employees are properly trained in fall prevention methods and procedures. 
• Regularly inspect equipment for potential hazards. 
• Use barriers when working at heights.
• Always follow manufacturers guidelines when operating machinery.
• Follow workplace safety procedures at all times.

What to do in the event of a slip, trip or fall:

• If you or someone else is injured, seek medical attention immediately.
• Report the incident to your supervisor and fill out any necessary paperwork, no matter how minor the injury may seem. This will help to prevent the incident from occurring again to somebody else.
• Take photographs of the scene if possible.
• Identify any potential witnesses.

Preventing slips, trips and falls in the workplace is important for keeping employees safe and preventing injuries. By following some simple safety precautions, you can help to keep your workplace accident-free.

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.